Book an Appointment

My Car

Can I Import My French Car into Germany?

Yes. If you are moving to Germany, you may import your vehicle. However, you must declare and register it (Zulassung) within 6 months of your arrival, unless it is a rental or company vehicle.

What are the Procedures for Registering a Foreign Car?

You will need to present:

  • The French registration certificate (Fahrzeugschein)
  • Proof of purchase or Certificate of Conformity (COC)
  • German insurance (Versicherungsnachweis: eVB) — Faller Finance handles this
  • The German technical inspection (TÜV)
  • Your Anmeldung (proof of address)

→ Registration is done at the Zulassungsstelle, with a payment of approximately €30 to €50.

Do I Need to Undergo the Technical Inspection (Tüv) Again?

Yes. The German TÜV is mandatory for all registrations. If your French technical inspection is recent, it may sometimes be provisionally accepted, but the German standard is stricter.

Is it Necessary to Change your License Plates?

Yes, once registered in Germany, your car will bear German license plates. French license plates become invalid.

Which Car Insurance should I Choose in Germany?

German car insurance (Kfz-Versicherung) is mandatory. Three levels exist:

  • Haftpflicht (third-party liability): mandatory, covers damages caused to others.
  • Teilkasko: covers theft, fire, glass breakage, natural damage.
  • Vollkasko: also covers damage to your own vehicle, even in case of fault.

👉 Faller Finance helps you compare contracts to find the best coverage at the best price.

How is the Price of Car Insurance Calculated in Germany?

The premium depends on the type of vehicle, place of residence, your no-claims bonus (Schadenfreiheitsklasse), and annual mileage. By using our firm, your French insurance history can be recognized to obtain a better rate.

Can I Drive with My French Driver’s License?

Yes. The French driver’s license is recognized in Germany. You may use it indefinitely as long as it is valid. In case of loss or suspension, procedures are handled by the German authorities.

Do I Have to Pay a Vehicle Tax (Kfz-Steuer)?

Yes. Every car registered in Germany is subject to the Kfz-Steuer, calculated according to:

  • Engine displacement,
  • Fuel type,
  • And CO₂ emissions.

This tax is automatically collected by the Hauptzollamt once a year.

Is it Possible to Deduct Car Expenses from Taxes?

Yes, if you use your vehicle for professional purposes (self-employed, consultant, sales representative…). You can deduct:

  • Fuel costs,
  • Maintenance / repairs,
  • Vehicle depreciation,
  • Or a mileage allowance (€0.30/km).

💡 Faller Finance helps you choose the most advantageous method based on your activity and tax status.

What to Do in Case of an Accident?

In case of an accident:

  • Note the contact details of the involved parties.
  • Take photos.
  • Contact your insurance before any repairs.

If the claim involves shared liability or a cross-border situation, Faller Finance and its partners can help you manage the declaration and reimbursement with German or French insurers.

How to Sell or Deregister My Vehicle in Germany?

The sale or deregistration (Abmeldung) is done at the Zulassungsstelle. The sales certificate (Kaufvertrag) and the license plate must be submitted.

If returning to France, you can request a temporary export plate (Ausfuhrkennzeichen) to repatriate the vehicle.

How Can Faller Finance Help Me?

Faller Finance assists expatriates with:

  • Comparing and optimizing their car insurance,
  • Tax-deducting vehicle-related expenses,
  • Assisting with registration or deregistration procedures,
  • Managing insurance claims.