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Ukrainians in Germany must re-register their cars: what fines they face

The transition period in Germany, which allowed Ukrainians to use cars with Ukrainian license plates without mandatory local registration, has ended. Now, cars that have been in the country for more than 12 months (from the moment of entry or obtaining temporary protection status) must be re-registered and obtain German license plates. This was reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with reference to Ukravtoprom.

Failure to comply with the requirements will result in fines for owners, as well as the evacuation of the vehicle to an impound lot at their expense.

Why the rules have changed

After the start of the full-scale war, Germany allowed Ukrainians to temporarily use cars with Ukrainian registration without immediate registration. However, after a year of permanent residence in the country, the vehicle is subject to registration in accordance with German law.

In addition, after 12 months of residence, the Ukrainian “green card” may no longer be recognized. This means that the car owner must conclude an insurance contract with a German insurance company.

What is required to re-register a car in Germany

To register a car in Germany, you must:

1. Pass a technical inspection (TÜV or DEKRA).
2. Take out German car insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung).
3. Submit documents to the local vehicle registration authority (Zulassungsstelle).
4. Obtain German license plates.

The technical inspection checks whether the car complies with EU environmental and safety standards. If it does not, the owner will have to rectify the defects before registration.

What are the consequences of a violation?

If the car is not re-registered after 12 months in Germany, the following penalties may apply:

• fines;
• prohibition of operation;
• forced evacuation of the car;
• problems with insurance coverage in the event of an accident.

Particularly serious consequences may arise if the driver is involved in a traffic accident without valid German insurance.

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Who should check the terms

The rules apply to Ukrainians who:

• have been in Germany for more than 12 months;
• have been granted temporary protection;
• use a car with Ukrainian registration.

If the period of stay has not yet exceeded one year, re-registration is not currently mandatory, but it is worth preparing for the procedure in advance.

How much can it cost

The cost of re-registration depends on the region and the technical condition of the car. Costs may include:

• technical inspection (approximately €100–150);
• insurance (from €300–800 per year depending on experience and car);
• registration fees and license plates.

In total, the procedure can cost several hundred euros.

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