Registering an imported car in Germany
Updated 2026-07-20 · 7 min read
To register an imported car in Germany, you take it to your local registration office (Zulassungsstelle) with a Certificate of Conformity (COC), proof of ownership, and evidence that import taxes are paid. For an EU-type-approved car, the COC (known in German as the Übereinstimmungsbescheinigung) lets you register without a full individual inspection.
Why the COC matters in Germany
Germany is one of the largest markets for imported cars in Europe, and its registration offices rely on the COC to confirm a vehicle meets EU standards. Without it, an EU car often faces an individual approval through a technical inspection body such as TÜV, which is slower and more expensive.
If the previous owner did not pass on the Übereinstimmungsbescheinigung, you can order a replacement original using the VIN before your appointment.
Documents you need
Bring the full set to your Zulassungsstelle appointment to avoid a second visit.
- Certificate of Conformity (Übereinstimmungsbescheinigung / COC)
- The foreign registration document
- Proof of ownership, such as the purchase contract
- Valid identification and proof of a German address
- eVB electronic insurance confirmation number
- Proof of paid import VAT or customs clearance for non-EU cars
The registration process step by step
Once your paperwork is complete, the process itself is quick.
- Get a valid main inspection (Hauptuntersuchung) if the car has no current German test.
- Book an appointment at your local Zulassungsstelle.
- Submit your documents, including the COC.
- Pay the registration fee and receive your registration certificate and plates.
What it costs and how long it takes
The registration fee at the Zulassungsstelle is modest, typically under €100, but you should budget for the COC, a Hauptuntersuchung if needed, and number plates.
The main variable is the COC. Order it early: for common makes the digital PDF often arrives within one to three business days, but premium brands can take longer, and you do not want it to hold up your appointment.
Key takeaways
- Germany's Zulassungsstelle uses the COC (Übereinstimmungsbescheinigung) to register EU-type-approved imports without an individual inspection.
- Bring the COC, foreign registration, proof of ownership, ID, eVB insurance number and tax proof.
- Without a COC, an EU car usually needs a costlier individual approval via TÜV.
- Order a replacement COC by VIN before your appointment if the seller did not provide one.
Frequently asked questions
What is a COC called in Germany?
The German term is Übereinstimmungsbescheinigung, often abbreviated to COC. It is the same EU document.
Can I register an imported car without a COC?
For an EU-type-approved car it is possible but impractical: you would need an individual approval via a body like TÜV, which costs more and takes longer than presenting a COC.
How do I get the Übereinstimmungsbescheinigung if the seller did not provide it?
Order a replacement original from the manufacturer using the VIN. Coceu can source it and deliver the digital PDF and paper original.
Do non-EU imports need anything extra?
Yes. A car first sold outside the EU usually needs individual approval and customs clearance, plus proof that import VAT has been paid.