How much does it cost to register a car in Germany?

What is NOT included in the registration fee?

The Zulassungsstelle fee does not include insurance premium, KFZ-Steuer (annual vehicle tax) or the vehicle inspection (HU). Insurance is billed monthly by AXA/Zurich; the tax office debits KFZ-Steuer once a year via SEPA.

Why does the total vary between cities?

Each Zulassungsstelle sets its own admin fees within the federal GebOSt schedule, and plate makers charge different prices. Berlin, Munich and Hamburg tend to sit at the upper end; smaller districts are cheaper.

What does it cost with our service, end to end?

Our pricing is flat: €500 one-time setup and €99 per month, billed 12 months upfront (€1,200). If the car already carries a foreign registration and has to be converted to German papers, add €400 once. Official fees, plates and the environmental sticker are the amounts listed in the table above; insurance premium and KFZ-Steuer are billed separately by the insurer and the tax office because they depend on the vehicle.

What running costs come after registration?

Three recurring items: the insurance premium (monthly, set by AXA or Zurich based on car, driver profile and mileage), KFZ-Steuer (annual, based on engine displacement and CO₂ — our tax calculator gives the exact figure), and HU/TÜV every 24 months at roughly €90–140. Optional: indoor storage near Berlin at €290 per month.

Is doing it yourself cheaper?

On paper yes — the official fees alone are €70–120. In practice a non-resident cannot complete a self-registration, because the Zulassungsstelle requires a keeper with a German address, a German insurance policy and, at most offices, an in-person appointment during working hours. The service fee buys the keeper address, the insurance mandate and the appointment, not just the paperwork.

Official registration fees in Germany (as of 2026, varies by district)

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