How to Change Car Insurance in Germany [2025 Guide] 🚗🇩🇪
Changing car insurance in Germany is a straightforward process, but it requires careful timing, correct paperwork, and an understanding of German car insurance regulations. Whether you want lower premiums, better coverage, or to switch providers after buying a new car, knowing the exact steps will save you money and prevent legal issues.
In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn when and how to change car insurance in Germany, the required documents, deadlines, costs, and insider tips to get the best deals.
đź“Ś Quick Summary Table: Changing Car Insurance in Germany (2025)
| Step | What to Do | Timeframe | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Review Current Policy | Check coverage, terms, and cancellation notice | At least 1 month before renewal | Free |
| 2. Compare New Offers | Use online comparison portals & direct insurers | Before cancellation | Free |
| 3. Send Cancellation to Old Insurer | Written notice by post/email | By November 30 for year-end | Free |
| 4. Sign New Policy | Choose coverage & payment plan | Before old policy ends | Premium-based |
| 5. Update eVB Number | Submit to Zulassungsstelle for vehicle registration | Immediately after signing | Free |
🏛 1. Understanding Car Insurance Rules in Germany
In Germany, third-party liability insurance (Kfz-Haftpflicht) is mandatory for all registered vehicles. Without valid insurance, you cannot legally drive or register your car. You can also add partial (Teilkasko) or full (Vollkasko) coverage for extra protection.
Most car insurance contracts run from January 1 to December 31, and the standard cancellation deadline is November 30. Missing this date usually means your contract auto-renews for another year.
đź“„ 2. Reasons to Change Car Insurance in Germany
There are several reasons why drivers choose to switch insurers:
- Lower Premiums – Comparing offers can reveal cheaper rates for the same coverage.
- Better Coverage – Adding benefits like roadside assistance or rental car coverage.
- New Car Purchase – You can switch anytime when registering a new vehicle.
- Service Dissatisfaction – Poor claim handling or customer service can justify a change.
- Special Termination Rights – If your insurer increases premiums or after a claim settlement, you may cancel immediately.
đź“ť 3. Step-by-Step Process to Change Car Insurance in Germany
Step 1: Review Your Current Policy
Before switching, check your policy for renewal dates, coverage details, and the notice period. This ensures you won’t miss the legal cancellation deadline.
Step 2: Compare New Offers
Use German car insurance comparison websites like Check24, Verivox, or Tarifcheck. Enter your vehicle details, driver history, and desired coverage to find the best options. Always compare not just price, but also deductibles, service ratings, and claim speed.
Step 3: Cancel Your Old Policy
Send a written cancellation (Kündigung) to your current insurer by registered mail or email. If you’re cancelling at year-end, the deadline is November 30. Keep a copy of the confirmation.
Step 4: Sign with Your New Insurer
Choose your new policy before the old one ends to avoid any insurance gap. Your new insurer will issue an eVB number (electronic confirmation of insurance).
Step 5: Update Vehicle Registration
Provide your eVB number to the Zulassungsstelle (vehicle registration office) if you’re registering a new car or making policy changes.
đź’° 4. Costs & Savings When Changing Car Insurance in Germany
Switching insurers can save you anywhere from €100 to €500 per year depending on your driving profile, vehicle type, and coverage. Most policies have monthly, quarterly, or annual payment options.
There are usually no direct fees for switching unless you cancel outside the permitted period, in which case you may have to pay until your contract end date.
đź“‹ 5. Tips for a Smooth Car Insurance Switch
- Mark November 30 in your calendar to avoid missing the main deadline.
- Use online portals but confirm directly with the insurer for accurate rates.
- Check for no-claims bonus (Schadenfreiheitsrabatt) transfer to your new policy.
- Avoid coverage gaps by securing a new policy before cancelling the old one.
- Consider optional add-ons like breakdown cover (Schutzbrief) if you travel often.
đźš« 6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until after November 30 – you’ll be stuck for another year.
- Choosing the cheapest policy without checking coverage.
- Forgetting to transfer your no-claims bonus to the new insurer.
- Not confirming eVB number activation before driving your car.
âť“FAQs
Q1: How can I change my car insurance in Germany?
Review your current policy, compare new offers, send written cancellation by the deadline (usually November 30), sign a new policy, and update your eVB number with the vehicle registration office.
Q2: Can I change car insurance in Germany anytime?
Yes, you can switch anytime when buying a new car, after an accident claim, or if your insurer raises premiums. Otherwise, you must wait until the annual cancellation period.
Q3: How much can I save by changing car insurance in Germany?
Drivers can save between €100 and €500 per year, depending on vehicle type, driving history, and coverage level.
Q4: What is an eVB number in German car insurance?
An eVB number is an electronic insurance confirmation needed to register or update your vehicle in Germany. Your new insurer provides it after you sign the policy.
Q5: What happens if I don’t change car insurance before the deadline?
If you miss the cancellation deadline, your policy will automatically renew for another year, and you may be unable to switch until the next period unless you have special termination rights.