H license plate 2024: requirements, advantages and approval
Some cars are like fine red wines from Bordeaux or Burgundy: they become more and more valuable with age. If your vehicle is at least 30 years old and almost original, there is a chance that it will be recognized as a cultural asset - and receive the H license plate. This has some advantages, including a reduced vehicle tax for the car. But the classic car license plate is also subject to certain conditions - what these are and all the important information about the H license plate you can find out here.
The most important things at a glance
- Vehicles that are at least 30 years old can be registered with H license plates.
- In addition to age, the vehicle must also meet high requirements in terms of originality and condition.
- An H license plate has many advantages, such as lower tax and insurance premiums – and also some disadvantages.
- The red 07 license plate is associated with similarly high requirements and more restrictions.
What is an H license plate – and what does it stand for?
More than half a million vehicles in Germany are equipped with an H license plate – making it probably the most popular type of registration for classic cars. It was introduced in Germany in 1997 to promote the preservation of historic vehicles.
At first glance, the license plate looks like a standard license plate:
- On the left edge is the Euro field with country code.
- This is followed by the city identifier (for example, B for Berlin).
- Then comes the HU/AU sticker.
- Plus a series of letters and numbers.
The only difference is an "H", which closes the license plate at the end. The "H" stands for "historic": Anyone who owns a well-maintained classic car in its original condition or has extensively restored it with original parts can register it as a "motor vehicle cultural asset" and get such an H license plate.
H license plates: When is a car considered a classic car?
Classic cars are cars, trucks, motorcycles or trailers that were first registered on the roads at least 30 years ago. This regulation applies not only in Germany, but in all member states of the European Union.
But not every old vehicle that has 30 years or more under its belt is automatically a classic car. It is crucial that all the main components of the vehicle – for example, the body and body, frame and chassis, engine and drivetrain, brake system as well as wheels and tyres – are in their original condition and are in good condition.
This is either the case if the vehicle has been treated with great care over the past 30 years or has been professionally restored with original components. Only then will a vehicle be considered a cultural asset worth preserving for future generations.
What is a youngtimer and when does it become a classic car?
Before a vehicle becomes a classic car, it inevitably goes through the phase of the youngtimer: If a vehicle has been registered on the road for at least 20 years, but not yet 30 years, it is a youngtimer.
Example: A well-preserved VW Golf 2, which was first registered on June 1, 1992, could be considered a youngtimer from June 1, 2012. Ten years later, on June 1, 2022, it could become a classic car - provided it is still in its original condition and well preserved.
As with classic cars, originality and a good state of preservation are also considered criteria for modern classics, but the term is not anchored in law. The registration of a youngtimer therefore does not have any special advantages, for example through a special license plate or a discounted vehicle tax. Youngtimers can only be registered regularly or with seasonal license plates.
Requirements: When can you apply for an H license plate?
Vehicles qualify for registration with H license plates if they have reached an age of at least 30 years. The cut-off date is the date of first registration. For example, if a Mercedes S-Class W126 was first registered on December 1, 1991, it could not receive an H license plate until December 1, 2021 at the earliest.
However, age alone is not enough to get a coveted H license plate. If you want to register your vehicle that is at least 30 years old as a classic car, you need a classic car certificate according to § 23 StVZO. In addition, a valid general inspection (HU) and the conclusion of motor vehicle liability insurance are required.
If the report is positive and the technical inspection and motor vehicle liability are available, you can apply for an H license plate and an entry in the vehicle registration document for your classic vehicle at the vehicle registration authority. The assessment can be carried out shortly before the 30th anniversary of the first registration, but the H license plate is only issued from the actual date.
How does the classic car appraisal work?
In order for a vehicle to be recognized as a classic car and receive an H license plate, a classic car inspection is required by law according to § 23 StVZO. The focus of the appraisal is on the state of preservation and maintenance as well as the originality of the vehicle. An officially recognised expert, inspector or test engineer will determine whether your vehicle is a "motor vehicle cultural asset".
The following conditions must be met:
- The vehicle is in a good condition of care and preservation.
- The vehicle must show normal signs of use, but no technical defects or residual accident damage.
- No improper repairs or repairs must have been carried out on the vehicle.
- All essential main components of the vehicle must be in their original condition.
- The vehicle should look as much as possible as it rolled out of production 30 or more years ago.
- If modifications have been made to the vehicle, they must comply with the framework that was common and permissible at the time.
How long is a classic car appraisal valid?
There is no expiration date for the validity of classic car appraisals. Nevertheless, an assessment every two to three years is useful in order to provide for the event of damage – for example in the event of an accident or theft. An appraisal is also recommended after a restoration or repair. These subsequent appraisals are usually much cheaper, as only changes in the condition have to be documented and a comprehensive full appraisal is not necessary again.
In addition to registration with H license plates, one reason for preparing a classic car appraisal can also be the classification with the insurance company or an imminent purchase or sale of the vehicle. Depending on the occasion, there are other types of classic car appraisals, which differ both in scope and in the costs incurred:
- Valuation reports are prepared if, for example, the market value of the vehicle is to be determined before buying or selling. They contain a detailed description of the condition and analysis of the vehicle's history, as well as an accurate market value estimate. Here, too, aspects such as originality, condition of restoration and specific vehicle characteristics are discussed. Costs: 300 to 500 euros.
- Brief appraisals are often used to obtain a general estimate of the vehicle's value for the insurance company. They are less extensive than a full appraisal and include a brief description of the condition and a rough estimate of the market value. Costs: 90 to 150 euros.
The type of classic car appraisal also depends on the market value of the vehicle: If the value of a classic car is less than 20,000 euros, a short appraisal is usually sufficient. From a vehicle value of 40,000 euros and more, on the other hand, a complete valuation report should be prepared.
What modifications are allowed for an H license plate?
Since the originality of the vehicle is decisive in the issuance of an H license plate, among other things, conversion work and modifications to the vehicle can have an impact on its status as a "motor vehicle cultural asset".
In general, all modifications to the vehicle must either have been carried out in the first ten years after registration or should correspond to the typical conversion work of this time. Exceptions apply to the installation of catalytic converters or to disability-friendly modifications to the vehicle; these are usually recognised.
The vehicle may deviate from the original with the following features, provided that the aesthetic and technical changes correspond to the spirit of the time:
- Different paint scheme – but in a contemporary colour scheme (including trim or company lettering)
- Different engine, but from the same series
- Conversion from diagonal to radial tires
- True-to-the-original replicas of the exhaust system in stainless steel
- Tuning – but only with contemporary components (first registration date plus ten years)
Another important criterion in the classic car appraisal: The vehicle must comply with the regulations of the StVZO and be roadworthy. Classic cars that deviate from this are - despite their originality - not eligible for registration. Certain retrofits are mandatory for all classic cars, for example an anti-theft device or turn signals and reversing lights if these are not available.
In addition, other voluntary safety retrofits are recommended, such as seat belts or an extension of the on-board electrical system in order to be able to use accident detectors or navigation devices. If gadgets such as navigation devices are attached to the windshield with a suction cup, they are also permitted with H license plates. According to TÃœV, the installation of a modern radio with digital technology is also permitted under certain conditions, for example if it has a contemporary look, can display an analogue display or is covered by a panel.
What documents and steps do you need for registration and the desired license plate?
In order to obtain an H license plate, the following documents must be submitted to the registration office:
- Vehicle registration document and vehicle registration document (or registration certificate Part I and Part II)
- Classic car appraisal according to § 23 StVZO
- Main inspection (HU)
- Registration number, if the vehicle is registered
- Proof of insurance for motor vehicle liability (e.g. current contribution notice)
- SEPA direct debit mandate for the collection of motor vehicle tax
- Identification document (identity card or passport) with current registration confirmation
If you want a special license plate for your classic car, for example with your initials, you must also present the reservation confirmation for the desired license plate at the time of registration. The desired license plate can be reserved at the responsible vehicle registration office in person, by telephone or online – depending on the authority – for a period of 10 to 90 days or longer.
Advantages of the H license plate: tax, insurance and environmental zones
You can also drive your car that is over 30 years old with a normal registration. But the H license plate has some advantages:
- You have tax advantages: The tax office taxes classic cars at a flat rate of around 190 euros and vintage motorcycles at around 50 euros per year – regardless of engine capacity or emission class. This is cheaper than the regular tax calculation, especially for vehicles with large engines or higher emissions.
- The insurances are cheaper: There are special classic car insurance policies for vehicles with H license plates, which are often cheaper than normal car insurance. The tariffs are lower because it is assumed that classic cars are driven more gently and less frequently than conventional vehicles.
- You have access to environmental zones: With H license plates, driving in environmental zones is also permitted without a green sticker. However, other regulations may apply to journeys abroad.
- The value of the car increases: classic cars also serve as an investment. Vehicles with H plates can be more attractive on the collector's market, as the license plate confirms a certain standard and historical authenticity.
- Creates a positive image: An H license plate gives the vehicle a certain "status" as a recognized cultural asset.
The H license plate also means that there are no restrictions on driving abroad, and the commercial use of classic cars with H license plates is also possible.
What modifications are allowed for an H license plate?
Since the originality of the vehicle is decisive in the issuance of an H license plate, among other things, conversion work and modifications to the vehicle can have an impact on its status as a "motor vehicle cultural asset".
In general, all modifications to the vehicle must either have been carried out in the first ten years after registration or should correspond to the typical conversion work of this time. Exceptions apply to the installation of catalytic converters or to disability-friendly modifications to the vehicle; these are usually recognised.
The vehicle may deviate from the original with the following features, provided that the aesthetic and technical changes correspond to the spirit of the time:
- Different paint scheme – but in a contemporary colour scheme (including trim or company lettering)
- Different engine, but from the same series
- Conversion from diagonal to radial tires
- True-to-the-original replicas of the exhaust system in stainless steel
- Tuning – but only with contemporary components (first registration date plus ten years)
Another important criterion in the classic car appraisal: The vehicle must comply with the regulations of the StVZO and be roadworthy. Classic cars that deviate from this are - despite their originality - not eligible for registration. Certain retrofits are mandatory for all classic cars, for example an anti-theft device or turn signals and reversing lights if these are not available.
In addition, other voluntary safety retrofits are recommended, such as seat belts or an extension of the on-board electrical system in order to be able to use accident detectors or navigation devices. If gadgets such as navigation devices are attached to the windshield with a suction cup, they are also permitted with H license plates. According to TÃœV, the installation of a modern radio with digital technology is also permitted under certain conditions, for example if it has a contemporary look, can display an analogue display or is covered by a panel.
What documents and steps do you need for registration and the desired license plate?
In order to obtain an H license plate, the following documents must be submitted to the registration office:
- Vehicle registration document and vehicle registration document (or registration certificate Part I and Part II)
- Classic car appraisal according to § 23 StVZO
- Main inspection (HU)
- Registration number, if the vehicle is registered
- Proof of insurance for motor vehicle liability (e.g. current contribution notice)
- SEPA direct debit mandate for the collection of motor vehicle tax
- Identification document (identity card or passport) with current registration confirmation
If you want a special license plate for your classic car, for example with your initials, you must also present the reservation confirmation for the desired license plate at the time of registration. The desired license plate can be reserved at the responsible vehicle registration office in person, by telephone or online – depending on the authority – for a period of 10 to 90 days or longer.
Advantages of the H license plate: tax, insurance and environmental zones
You can also drive your car that is over 30 years old with a normal registration. But the H license plate has some advantages:
- You have tax advantages: The tax office taxes classic cars at a flat rate of around 190 euros and vintage motorcycles at around 50 euros per year – regardless of engine capacity or emission class. This is cheaper than the regular tax calculation, especially for vehicles with large engines or higher emissions.
- The insurances are cheaper: There are special classic car insurance policies for vehicles with H license plates, which are often cheaper than normal car insurance. The tariffs are lower because it is assumed that classic cars are driven more gently and less frequently than conventional vehicles.
- You have access to environmental zones: With H license plates, driving in environmental zones is also permitted without a green sticker. However, other regulations may apply to journeys abroad.
- The value of the car increases: classic cars also serve as an investment. Vehicles with H plates can be more attractive on the collector's market, as the license plate confirms a certain standard and historical authenticity.
- Creates a positive image: An H license plate gives the vehicle a certain "status" as a recognized cultural asset.
The H license plate also means that there are no restrictions on driving abroad, and the commercial use of classic cars with H license plates is also possible.