Transfer License Plates & Temporary License Plates – How to Transfer a Vehicle Correctly
Whether after purchasing at an online car auction, from a dealer, or privately, anyone who wants to transfer an unregistered vehicle on their own wheels needs a special license plate. This raises many questions:
- How much does a transfer license plate cost?
- Is it possible without TÜV?
- Where can I get an eVB number?
- Can I apply for the license plate online?
Buyers of damaged or unregistered vehicles – such as those offered by Copart – in particular should address this issue at an early stage.
What Is a Transfer License Plate?
A transfer license plate – also known as a short-term license plate or 5-day license plate – allows temporary participation in road traffic with an unregistered vehicle.
Validity:
Maximum 5 days from the date of issue – the date is permanently printed on the license plate.
What Is a Transfer or Short-Term License Plate Used For?
Typical uses:
- Transfer of vehicles (e.g., from seller to buyer)
- Test drives with vehicles that are not yet registered
- Driving to the repair shop or TÜV
- Preparing for registratio
How much does a transfer license plate cost?
The costs are made up of several components:
|
Item |
Average cost |
|
License Plates |
approx. €20–30 |
|
Registration Fee (Registration Office) |
approx. €10–15 |
|
Insurance + eVB (Mandatory) |
approx. €30–70 (for 5 days) |
|
Total Costs |
approx. €60–110 |
Tip: Some providers offer packages that include eVB, application, and plates in the total price.
What Is Required for a 5-Day License Plate?
You need:
- Valid identity card or passport
- Vehicle registration certificate (or foreign vehicle data)
- eVB number for short-term license plates (from an insurance company)
- TÜV certificate, if applicable (more on this in a moment
Transfer License Plates Without Tüv – Is That Possible?
That depends on the type of journey:
- With TÜV: unrestricted use possible.
- WithoutTÜV: only restricted use permitted. According to §16 FZV (Vehicle Registration Ordinance), only journeys to the testing center or workshop to prepare for the TÜV test are permitted.
Please note: Journeys without TÜV that go beyond this (e.g. transfers across the country) are not permitted and may result in fines.
Can I Apply for a Transfer License Plate Online?
Partially, yes. Some registration offices allow online applications – but often only for proof of insurance (eVB) and pre-registration. You must pick up the actual license plate in person or obtain it through a registration service.
Where Can I Get an eVB for Short-Term License Plates?
You can obtain a so-called electronic insurance confirmation (eVB):
- directly from your insurance company
- online from specialized providers
- sometimes also on site at the registration office (from partner insurers
Tip: The eVB is usually only valid for 30 days – don't apply for it too early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What can I do with a 5-day license plate?
Transfer, test drive, trip to the repair shop – depending on the vehicle's TÜV status.
How quickly can I get a transfer license plate?
Often on the same day – provided you bring the documents, eVB, and have time.
Can I borrow a transfer license plate?
No – the license plate is vehicle- and person-specific.
How much does a transfer license plate cost for one day?
The price is independent of the duration – there is no daily billing. It is usually a flat rate for 5 days.
How much does the eVB cost for a short-term license plate?
Between €30 and €70, depending on the provider.
Is there a short-term license plate without TÜV?
Yes, but only for trips to the testing center or repair shop – no free transfer trips are permitted.
Conclusion: Nothing Works Without a License Plate – Even for Auction Vehicles
A transfer or temporary license plate is essential if you want to move an unregistered vehicle on its own wheels. The costs are manageable, the process is straightforward – but the details such as TÜV regulations, eVB and intended use must be correct.
Bought a Vehicle at Copart Auction? Here's How to Transfer It!
If you buy a damaged car at a car auction such as Copart.de, you will usually need a transfer license plate to pick it up – especially if the vehicle is no longer registered or roadworthy.
❗ Important:
Not all vehicles are immediately roadworthy – check the condition and transport options carefully. Depending on the condition of the vehicle, you as the buyer must ensure that it can be transported safely – for example, with a suitable car transporter if the vehicle can no longer be moved on its own axles in a roadworthy condition.
