Fines for drivers and confiscation of cars: Germany has tightened rules for Ukrainians

Ukrainians who have temporary protection in Germany can now use cars with Ukrainian license plates for only 12 months. After this period, it is necessary to register the vehicles with the German authorities; otherwise, fines or even confiscation of the car may occur. This was reported by Relocate.

The changes came into effect on October 1, 2024, when the German authorities canceled the benefits that allowed Ukrainians to use their cars for more than a year. Now, the federal states do not provide exceptions in this matter.

Registration Procedure

The mandatory registration at Zulassungsstelle applies to car owners who have been in Germany for more than a year or have a registered residence.

To undergo registration, one needs to have a passport or ID card with Latin letters, a Ukrainian technical passport, valid insurance (German or 'green card'), a technical inspection HU (TÜV), as well as a CoC certificate or an expert evaluation in TÜV or DEKRA.

The financial costs for legalizing a Ukrainian car in Germany are quite high for refugees. Registration along with obtaining license plates will cost approximately 50-70 euros. The technical inspection HU and emission check AU cost 150 euros. If a CoC certificate is required, owners will have to pay from 70 to 180 euros. Also, the annual vehicle tax will range from 60 to 200 euros depending on the characteristics of the vehicle.

Previously, the EU agreed on the introduction of mobile driver's licenses.

Ukrainians with temporary protection status in Germany must now register their cars with the German authorities after 12 months of use. The changes were introduced on October 1, 2024, and provide for fines and other sanctions for those who do not comply with the new rules. The new requirements also relate to the registration procedure, documents needed for vehicle legalization in Germany, and financial costs associated with these processes.