Can a non-resident register a car in Germany at all?

Yes. German law separates the registered keeper (Halter) from the legal owner (Eigentümer), so a vehicle can be registered through a German keeper while you remain the owner. With a German correspondence address and a power of attorney, you can also be entered as the keeper yourself.

What is the difference between Model A and Model B?

In Model A our company is the registered keeper and you are the legal owner through the purchase contract; it works entirely remotely. In Model B you are the keeper in the Fahrzeugbrief (ZB II) yourself, which requires a notarised power of attorney and, in practice, one trip to Germany.

Do I need a German bank account?

No. Vehicle tax is settled through a SEPA mandate we set up, and the insurance premium and our fees can be paid by international transfer.

How long does it take?

Plates are typically issued in about five business days once the documents are complete. De-registration later takes about 15 minutes remote and is included in the service.

Free tool

Can I register a car in Germany as a non-resident?

Five quick questions about where you live, where you buy and how the car will be used. You get an instant result, the documents you'll likely need and the typical process.

Question 1 of 5

Where do you permanently live?

This checker provides general information only and is not legal or tax advice. Your individual situation decides what is possible — we confirm it in a free assessment.

Common questions

Model A and Model B compared in detail
Work out the total cost over the years you plan to keep the car
Car registration in Germany without residency — full guide
Registering in your own name as a non-resident
Storing your car in Germany between trips
Published pricing for both models

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https://germancarregistration.com/eligibility-checker