Car Insurance in Germany for Australians: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving from Australia to Germany comes with many lifestyle changes, and among the practical matters to sort out, car insurance is a major one. Whether you’re relocating for work, studies, or long-term travel, if you plan on driving in Germany, understanding the German car insurance system is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive guide to car insurance in Germany tailored specifically for Australians.

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1. Driving in Germany as an Australian

Before we dive into car insurance specifics, let’s start with the basics. Australians can drive in Germany with an Australian driving license for up to six months. After that, you are legally required to obtain a German driving license unless you're just visiting as a tourist. Some German states may allow up to 12 months without conversion, but it's best to check local regulations.

The roads in Germany are renowned for their quality, and the Autobahn system is famous for having sections with no speed limits. However, driving laws are strictly enforced, and insurance is mandatory.

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2. Is Car Insurance Mandatory in Germany?

Yes. Car insurance is legally required in Germany. The law mandates that every vehicle must have at least liability insurance (Kfz-Haftpflichtversicherung) to be registered and legally driven.

Driving without valid car insurance in Germany can lead to heavy fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges.

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3. Types of Car Insurance in Germany

There are three main types of car insurance coverage in Germany:

a. Liability Insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung)

This is the minimum mandatory coverage required by law. It covers damages or injuries you cause to others – including their property and medical costs – but it does not cover your own vehicle.

b. Partial Coverage (Teilkasko)

In addition to liability, partial coverage includes protection against:

• Theft

• Fire and explosions

• Storms, hail, lightning, and flooding

• Broken glass

• Damage from wild animals

This is ideal for vehicles that are not brand-new but still valuable enough to protect.

c. Full Coverage (Vollkasko)

Full coverage includes everything in Teilkasko, plus protection against damage to your own vehicle, even if you’re at fault or involved in a hit-and-run. It also covers vandalism and damages from accidents you caused.

This is recommended for:

• New cars

• Leased vehicles

• Financed vehicles

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4. Cost of Car Insurance in Germany

The cost of car insurance in Germany depends on multiple factors:

• Age and driving experience

• Type and value of the car

• Where you live

• Your claims history (including any from Australia)

• Annual mileage

• No-claims bonus (Schadenfreiheitsrabatt)

Typically, liability insurance starts at around €300 to €500 per year, while full coverage can go up to €1000 or more annually.

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5. Can Australians Use Their Insurance History from Australia?

Yes – some German insurers accept international no-claims certificates. If you had a good driving record in Australia and didn’t make any claims for a certain number of years, you can request a no-claims certificate from your Australian insurer and provide a translated copy to your German insurance provider.

This can significantly reduce your premiums.

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6. Top Car Insurance Providers in Germany

Several reputable car insurance companies operate in Germany. Some of the top options include:

• HUK-Coburg

• Allianz

• AXA

• DA Direkt

• DEVK

• CosmosDirekt

• R+V Versicherung

Many of these providers offer online quotes, and some websites have English-language support, although most services are conducted in German.

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7. How to Get Car Insurance as an Australian in Germany

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose the level of coverage: Liability, partial, or full.

2. Compare quotes online using platforms like Check24.de or Verivox.de.

3. Provide personal details, including your address, driving license details, and vehicle information.

4. Submit documents, such as:

   • Passport

   • German residency permit (if applicable)

   • Australian no-claims certificate (translated)

   • Vehicle registration documents

5. Receive the EVB number (Elektronische Versicherungsbestätigung) from your insurer.

6. Register your vehicle using this EVB number at the local vehicle registration office (Kfz-Zulassungsstelle).

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8. What is an EVB Number?

The EVB (Elektronische Versicherungsbestätigung) is a digital code issued by your insurance company in Germany. It’s used to prove you have valid insurance when registering your car.

You cannot register a vehicle without an EVB.

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9. Optional Add-Ons for Car Insurance in Germany

In addition to standard coverage, insurers often offer add-ons such as:

• Breakdown Assistance (Schutzbrief) – Similar to Australia’s NRMA or RACV.

• Legal Protection Insurance (Verkehrsrechtsschutz) – Covers legal costs if you're involved in a traffic-related legal issue.

• Parking Damage (Parkschadenversicherung) – Covers damages while parked.

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10. Tips for Australians on Getting the Best Insurance Deal

• Compare regularly: Don’t just renew blindly. Use comparison sites.

• Use your no-claims bonus: Bring proof from Australia.

• Avoid automatic renewals: Insurers often raise prices in the second year.

• Opt for higher deductibles: If you’re a confident driver, this can reduce premiums.

• Bundle insurance: Some companies offer discounts for combining car, home, and liability insurance.

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11. Driving and Insurance Culture Differences: Australia vs. Germany

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12. What Happens in an Accident in Germany?

If you’re involved in an accident:

• Stay at the scene and call the police if necessary.

• Exchange insurance details with the other driver.

• Take photos and note the surroundings.

• Contact your insurance company immediately.

• If you have legal protection, involve your lawyer if disputes arise.

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Conclusion

For Australians relocating to Germany, navigating the car insurance system can initially seem overwhelming. But with a basic understanding of the system, a bit of research, and the right documents, getting insured in Germany is straightforward.

Whether you're driving a car imported from Australia, buying a new vehicle in Germany, or using a company car, the key is to prioritize proper coverage, leverage your no-claims history, and compare offers carefully.

Driving in Germany can be a fantastic experience – especially with the freedom of the Autobahn – but it’s only enjoyable when you’re fully insured and legally compliant. Safe travels and happy driving!