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, examiner 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.
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 features 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
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.
Disadvantages: What are you not allowed to do with an H license plate?
An H license plate also has a few disadvantages, which are mainly related to the requirements for the condition and use of the vehicle:
- You have to meet strict requirements: Modern conversions, tuning or the installation of non-contemporary technology are not allowed for classic cars with H license plates. Subsequent modifications can lead to the revocation of the H license plate. The general condition of the vehicle must also be in good condition at all times in order to retain the H sticker. This requires more maintenance and care than with everyday vehicles.
- Use is restricted: Insurance for H license plates is often associated with restrictions, such as a limited number of kilometers per year or the condition that there must be another everyday vehicle in the household.
- The costs are higher: Depending on the scope, the appraisal of the classic car costs 80 to 200 euros – expenses that are not incurred with a conventional everyday vehicle. In addition, there are costs for re-registration, which are around 100 euros, as well as the technical inspection (50 to 100 euros, depending on the federal state). In addition, the increased care and maintenance effort entails more costs. Genuine spare parts for classic cars can be more expensive and difficult to obtain. If you also want a custom license plate, you will have to pay another ten euros.
The costs of registering an H license plate at a glance
| Matter of expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Classic car appraisal (depending on the scope) | 80 to 200 euros |
| General inspection (depending on vehicle type and weight) | 50 to 100 euros |
| Re-registration incl. new license plate (depending on the federal state) | approx. 100 Euro |
| Motor vehicle tax (annual) | 191.73 euros (cars), 46.02 euros (motorcycle) |
| Custom license plate | approx. 10 Euro |
How much does insurance cost for a classic car with an H license plate?
Since classic cars are usually treated with more care and spend less time on the road than conventional cars, they are cheaper to insure. Although the vehicle must be in good and true-to-the-original condition, an H license plate is not absolutely necessary to take out insurance at the classic car rate. Many insurance companies only require a minimum age of 25 years.
However, the discounted insurance policy often requires that the vehicle is used privately, but not as an everyday vehicle, and that another vehicle is available for this purpose. The annual mileage of the classic car is also often limited to 6,000 to 9,000 kilometres. Company cars are thus excluded. The commercial use of a vehicle with H license plates is possible in principle, but then you have to insure your classic car at normal conditions.
The advantage of classic car insurance, however, is that – unlike classic car insurance – type, region or no-claims classes do not play a role in the calculation of the premium for a classic car. After an accident, you will not be upgraded, the premiums remain constant.
The amount of classic car insurance rates depends on various factors. In general, the older the vehicle and the better its condition, the cheaper the rates. The higher the value of the classic car and the more horsepower it has, the more expensive the insurance becomes.
On average, motor vehicle liability insurance costs around 40 to 110 euros per year. For full and partial comprehensive cover, an additional 30 to 70 euros per year are due, depending on the insurer. To save money, you can also consider whether a seasonal registration is sufficient for your classic car. This reduces the annual premiums to the months in which the vehicle is actually driven.
Tip: Ask the insurer of your choice about the conditions and premiums and compare different offers. To ensure that the classic car is not underinsured or overinsured, you should have a valuation report prepared before taking out insurance. A short evaluation is usually sufficient for this.
H license plate versus red 07 license plate: What are the differences?
In addition to the H license plate, there is another way to register a classic car: manufacturers, dealers and owners of classic cars can apply for a red 07 license plate for their cars. For this, too, the vehicle must be at least 30 years old and there must be a classic car appraisal in accordance with § 23 StVZO.
The advantages:
- The red 07 license plate can be used for several vehicles; in the case of collections, therefore, only one license plate is necessary.
- At 191.73 euros (cars) and 46.02 euros (motorcycles) per year, the flat-rate taxation is as cheap as for the H license plate.
- Car insurance is also more cost-effective than for conventional vehicles.
- No catalytic converter is required and environmental zones can be navigated without a sticker.
- There is no obligation for a regular general inspection.
However, even stricter requirements apply to red 07 license plates than to an H license plate. Only test and transfer drives as well as workshop visits and visits to classic car events are permitted. Trips abroad are also not necessarily recommended. At the very least, it should be clarified beforehand whether the license plate is recognized in the respective country. Otherwise, high fines may be imposed and vehicle confiscation cannot be ruled out.
The red 07 license plate is therefore more suitable for collectors who rarely move their classic car, for example to take it to the workshop or exhibit it at an event. If you want to drive your classic vehicle in everyday life, you can't avoid an H license plate.
Can you combine an H license plate with a seasonal license plate?
Many classic car owners only drive their beloved classic car in the summer months to protect it from the weather in winter. In general, a classic car can be registered as a seasonal vehicle, and a combination of H and season license plates has also been possible nationwide since October 2017.
This saves you from having to constantly register and deregister, and taxes are only due for the period you drive the vehicle. The approval period can be between two and eleven months. A seasonal license plate also affects insurance premiums. Ask your insurance company beforehand what exactly the effects of seasonal registration will be on the tariff and what conditions apply to rest insurance.
How often does a classic car with an H license plate have to go to the TÃœV?
A classic car with an H license plate must undergo a general inspection every two years. In the process, the criteria of his cultural asset status are also being re-examined, at least superficially. If there have been technical changes since the classic car report or the last technical inspection, or if the vehicle is in a worse condition, this can result in the revocation of the H license plate.
Anyone who owns a classic car with an H license plate is therefore continuously responsible for the care and contemporary maintenance of the vehicle.
Technology and care: How do you keep your classic car in good shape?
In order to receive the status as a "motor vehicle cultural asset", a classic car must be constantly cared for and maintained. Otherwise, you may be deprived of the H license plate for your classic car.
In order to maintain your classic car in the best possible way, you should regularly check all important components. These include, but are not limited to:
- Tyre pressure
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Battery
The care of the paintwork is also important. Instead of chasing your classic car through the car wash, it is better to wash it by hand. Dirt can be removed with water and a gentle cleaning agent from specialist retailers, microfibre cloths are suitable for drying. After the car wash, slight scratches can be removed by polishing – and as a finish, hard or liquid wax offer additional protection. You should not skimp on material when caring for classic cars!
If a repair or restoration is necessary, it is important that the historic condition of the vehicle is preserved. If you do not have sufficient knowledge yourself, you should therefore definitely leave this work to a specialist. Good places to go for original spare parts are classic car or brand clubs, but also vehicle manufacturers or spare parts dealers.
source : H-License Plate 2024: Requirements, Advantages and Approval | mobile.de