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Kurzzeitkennzeichen: Transit Plates for Moving a Car

Only needed if the car is deregistered. Valid for exactly 5 days — obtain them at the Zulassungsstelle before collecting the vehicle.

WHAT TO DO

What is it and when to act?

Kurzzeitkennzeichen are temporary transit plates required to drive a deregistered (abgemeldet) vehicle. Driving without them is an administrative offence: fine from €70 plus 1 point on your Flensburg record. Apply at the Zulassungsstelle before you collect the car.

Where to apply and what does it cost?

Apply in person at the Zulassungsstelle at your address (not the seller’s). Cost: approximately €40. Valid for exactly 5 calendar days from the start date you specify. You’ll need: Personalausweis, a transit insurance eVB, and the Kaufvertrag.

Common mistakes

👨🏻‍💻
Max recommends:

I got Kurzzeitkennzeichen from Monday to Friday, then rescheduled the collection to Saturday — the plates had expired. €70 fine. Transit plates are issued for specific dates — plan with a buffer and apply 5 days ahead.

👩🏼‍💼
Lea recommends:

I used my regular eVB for the transit plates — the insurer refused to pay out after a minor accident during the transfer: the policy didn't cover an unregistered vehicle. Always get a separate transit insurance eVB for Kurzzeitkennzeichen.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the difference between Kurzzeitkennzeichen and Überführungskennzeichen? ▾

Kurzzeitkennzeichen (red plate, §42 StVZO) is valid for exactly 5 calendar days with no route restriction. Überführungskennzeichen (§19 FZV) is tied to a specific transfer route and costs less (~€11 vs. ~€40), but you must specify the route in advance. For buying from a private seller in another city, Kurzzeitkennzeichen is the simpler option.

Do I need separate insurance for transit plates? ▾

Yes. When collecting Kurzzeitkennzeichen you must present a separate eVB for transit insurance — your regular Haftpflicht doesn't cover an unregistered vehicle that isn't yours yet. The same insurers that provide standard Haftpflicht also offer transit insurance.

Can I drive a technically defective car on transit plates? ▾

No. Kurzzeitkennzeichen don't exempt you from road safety rules and technical requirements. If the car hasn't passed the HU, it cannot be driven on any plates. Transporting a technically unroadworthy vehicle requires a tow truck.

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