Whether you're a student with your first car or an international professional commuting across the country, understanding vehicle insurance in Germany is essential. You'll need proof of insurance before you can register a vehicle—and choosing the right coverage can save you significant money in the long run.
Here's what you need to know about the three main types of car insurance in Germany.
In Germany, car insurance (Kfz-Versicherung) is required by law. You cannot register a vehicle without presenting an EVB number—the electronic confirmation of insurance coverage.
While insurance is an added expense, it protects you from potentially catastrophic repair and liability costs if something goes wrong.
Germany offers three main levels of coverage. Each provides different protection at different price points.
This is the minimum legal requirement for all drivers in Germany.
| What's Covered | What's Not Covered |
|---|---|
| Damage you cause to other vehicles | Damage to your own car |
| Injury to other people | Your own medical expenses |
| Damage to others' property | Theft, fire, or natural disasters |
Best for: Anyone who needs the cheapest possible option—but remember, you'll pay for any damage to your own vehicle out of pocket.
This mid-tier option includes third-party liability plus protection for certain types of damage to your own vehicle.
| What's Covered |
|---|
| Everything in Haftpflicht |
| Theft of vehicle or parts |
| Fire and explosions |
| Broken windows and windscreens |
| Animal collisions (e.g., deer) |
| Storm, hail, flooding, lightning |
| Electrical issues and short circuits |
| Marten (stone marten) bite damage |
Typical deductible: Around €150
Best for: Older but still valuable cars where comprehensive coverage isn't cost-effective.
Coverage details vary between providers. Compare what's included before choosing.
The most complete protection available—covering everything in Teilkasko plus damage to your own car, even if you're at fault.
| What's Covered |
|---|
| Everything in Teilkasko |
| Damage to your own vehicle (even if at fault) |
| Vandalism |
| Hit-and-run incidents |
| Some policies: major injury benefits |
Typical deductible: €300–€500
Best for: New cars, high-value vehicles, or anyone who wants maximum peace of mind.
| Feature | Haftpflicht | Teilkasko | Vollkasko |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal requirement | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Covers damage to others | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Covers theft/fire | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Covers weather damage | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Covers your own accidents | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Covers vandalism | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Relative cost | Low | Medium | High |
| Your Situation | Recommended Coverage |
|---|---|
| Older car, low value | Haftpflicht (liability only) |
| Mid-age car, worth protecting | Teilkasko (partial) |
| New or high-value car | Vollkasko (comprehensive) |
| Leased or financed vehicle | Vollkasko (often required) |
1. Compare multiple providers — Prices vary significantly for the same coverage
2. Check what's included — Teilkasko coverage differs between insurers
3. Consider your deductible — Higher deductibles mean lower premiums
4. Review annually — Your needs change as your car ages
5. Transfer your no-claims bonus — If you have accident-free years from abroad
Choosing the right vehicle insurance is about balancing protection and cost. Don't automatically choose the cheapest option—consider what you'd need to pay if something went wrong.
At Stay, we help international residents find the right car insurance for their situation. If you'd like personalised guidance, we're here to help.