Buying a car in Germany as an American: A complete guide

Buying a car in Germany as an American isn’t as complicated as it sounds. But there are a few things to know before you start shopping. From paperwork and taxes to car type and payment options, the process can feel unfamiliar if you’re navigating the system for the first time.

This guide walks through the process step by step. You’ll learn what’s required, how much it might cost, and where to start your search.

We'll also introduce the Wise account, which allows you to send, spend, and receive your money across the globe in over 40 currencies – all at the fair mid-market rate.

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Table of contents
Can Americans buy a car in Germany? What are the requirements for Americans to buy a car in Germany? Types of cars you can buy in Germany Where to buy a car in Germany Cost of buying a car in Germany What’s the best way to send money to Germany for purchasing a car? How to import a car from Germany to the US

Can Americans buy a car in Germany?

Yes, Americans can buy a car in Germany. There’s no citizenship requirement, and you don’t need to be an EU national. The key difference is in what happens after the purchase.

If you’re staying in Germany for the short term, you may be able to buy a car for export. However, registering the vehicle in Germany requires proof of residence. Without it, you won’t be able to insure the car or get plates issued in your name.

Some dealerships offer export options that include temporary registration and insurance. These are typically aimed at international buyers who plan to ship the car abroad.

💡 If you live in Germany or plan to stay long enough to register as a resident, the process is more straightforward.

What are the requirements for Americans to buy a car in Germany?

Buying a car in Germany as an American is possible, but you’ll need the right paperwork. The process is fairly straightforward if you’re already living in Germany or planning to stay for a while.

Here’s what you’ll typically need:¹

• Valid Identification: A passport or national ID
• Proof of address: A Meldebescheinigung (residence certificate) from your local registration office
• Driver’s license: A valid US driver’s license is often accepted for the purchase itself. For ongoing use, some states allow a direct exchange for a German license, while others require additional testing.
• German bank account: Required for handling insurance, taxes, and other vehicle-related payments
• Proof of insurance (eVB number): This is needed before registering the car

These documents are usually enough to complete the purchase and begin the registration process. Temporary visitors may face additional restrictions, especially when it comes to registering the vehicle.

Types of cars you can buy in Germany

Whether you’re staying long-term or simply want more independence while living abroad, buying a car in Germany can give you more freedom to explore the country.

The good news is that several types of vehicles exist to suit different needs and budgets. Each option has its own pros and requirements, so it helps to understand the differences before you start your search.

New cars

If you want the latest technology and a car that hasn’t been driven by anyone else, a new car is the most straightforward option.

You’ll typically buy directly from a dealership, where you can customize everything from the engine and paint color to the interior finish and add-on packages. It also comes with full manufacturer warranties, often including perks like complimentary maintenance for a set time.

The downside is the price. New cars are more expensive, and depreciation kicks in quickly in the first year. You’ll also need to factor in additional costs like registration, insurance, and taxes. That said, some buyers are willing to pay more for peace of mind and long-term reliability.

Used cars (Gebrauchtwagen)

Used cars are a popular choice in Germany, especially for expats or students looking for lower upfront costs. You can buy from either a dealership or a private seller.

Both have benefits, but the process works a bit differently.

• Dealerships often offer a one-year legal warranty on used vehicles. This covers hidden defects that were present before the sale
• Private sellers usually offer better prices but do not provide warranties. The purchase is typically final unless fraud or misinformation is involved

If you go this route, it’s important to check:

• Vehicle history (look for accident-free claims and proper documentation)
• Odometer readings (high mileage affects value and longevity)
• Last technical inspection date (called Hauptuntersuchung or HU)
• Emissions classification (some cities restrict cars that don’t meet environmental standards)

You should also ask for the maintenance logbook. In Germany, a car with a complete service record usually holds its value better and is seen as more trustworthy.

Jahreswagen (nearly-new cars)

A Jahreswagen is a car that has been used for less than one year, often by manufacturer or dealership employees. These cars are in excellent condition and have low mileage, but they are significantly cheaper than brand-new vehicles.

You’ll benefit from recent model features, lower insurance rates, and less depreciation than a factory-new car. Jahreswagen is only sold through official brand dealerships and usually comes with full warranties and service documentation.

This is a smart middle-ground option if you want a car that feels new without the new-car price tag.

Where to buy a car in Germany

Once you’ve decided on the type of car you want, the next step is figuring out where to buy it. In Germany, you have several reliable options depending on your preferences, budget, and how comfortable you are navigating the process in German.

1. Dealerships (Autohaus)

Buying from a dealership is the most straightforward route, especially for new or nearly-new cars.

Dealerships typically offer:

• A wide range of models and trims
• Warranties and inspection certificates
• Help with paperwork, including registration and insurance

Many official brand dealerships (like BMW or Volkswagen) also sell Jahreswagen. If you’re looking for more peace of mind and support in English, dealerships are a good place to start.

You can find both new and certified pre-owned vehicles this way.

2. Used car dealers (Gebrauchtwagenhändler)

If you’re looking for a lower-cost option, used car dealers specialize in secondhand vehicles. These businesses are everywhere, from big cities to smaller towns, and usually have a wide range of inventory.

By law, dealers must provide a one-year warranty on used vehicles, which covers defects that existed before the sale. This makes it a safer option than buying from a private individual, even if prices are slightly higher.

Make sure to verify:

• The inspection sticker (HU or TÜV) is valid
• The car has a full maintenance record
• The emissions sticker is green if you plan to drive in low-emission zones

You can visit in person or search through dealer listings online.

3. Online marketplaces

If you prefer to shop around from home, online platforms like mobile.de and AutoScout24 are popular choices in Germany.

These sites let you:

• Filter cars by location, price, mileage, fuel type, and more
• Compare dealership and private listings
• Contact sellers directly to schedule a visit or ask questions

Both sites are available in English, which makes them especially helpful for international buyers. Once you find a car you like, you’ll typically arrange a visit and test drive before completing the sale.

For extra convenience, platforms like Instamotion offer end-to-end car buying. They handle the inspection, registration, and delivery. Just be aware that everything, including paperwork, will be in German.

4. Private sellers

Buying from a private seller can be more affordable, but it comes with more risk. These listings are usually found on online platforms or through community bulletin boards.

There’s no legal warranty, and the sale is often final. You’ll need to do your own due diligence by:

• Inspecting the vehicle
• Verifying the maintenance record
• Checking for any hidden issues or accident history

It’s smart to bring someone who understands cars, or even pay for a professional inspection if you’re unsure. If you go this route, make sure the Kaufvertrag (purchase agreement) is properly filled out and that all registration documents are included.

5. Car subscription services

If you’re not ready to buy but need a long-term car solution, Germany has several car subscription services. These offer a flexible alternative where you pay a monthly fee that includes insurance, maintenance, and taxes.

Companies like Finn.auto and Sixt+ allow you to drive newer models without a long-term commitment. While not technically “buying,” it’s a growing trend among expats who want simplicity or are only in Germany for a year or two.

Cost of buying a car in Germany

Buying a car in Germany involves more than just paying the sticker price. From registration to insurance and yearly taxes, here’s what to budget for before you get behind the wheel.

Average car prices in Germany

New car prices in Germany tend to be higher than in the US, especially for premium brands. But if you’re willing to consider slightly used cars, you can save thousands.

• New cars: Average around €44,000
• Used cars: Cost about €18,800 on average²

Want to keep your costs lower? Focus your search on cities where the market is more competitive.

If you’re buying with euros but your income is in dollars, make sure you’re getting a fair rate. This guide to currency exchange in Berlin covers how to avoid hidden markups when converting your money.

Car taxes in Germany

Once you buy a car in Germany, you’ll need to pay annual vehicle tax. The amount is based on engine size, fuel type, and emissions.

Typical annual costs:

• Small petrol car: €100–€150³
• Diesel or high-emission models: €200–€500⁴

When registering the vehicle, you’ll provide your bank details so the federal customs office can automatically debit the tax.

Car insurance costs in Germany

You need proof of insurance before registering a car.

There are three levels of coverage:⁵

• Liability only (Haftpflicht): Required by law. €258/year
• Partial cover (Teilkasko): Adds theft and weather damage. €85/year
• Comprehensive (Vollkasko): Covers all of the above + your own damage. €587/year

Your rate depends on location, car model, age, and driving record. You can use Tarifcheck or Check24 to compare quotes in English.

Car registration costs in Germany

To legally drive, you’ll need to register your car and get plates.

Here’s what to expect:⁶

• Registration fee: Approximately €30
• License plates: €20–€40
• Emissions sticker: €5 (needed in most city centers)
• TÜV inspection: €50–€150, depending on whether it’s due

Some dealerships will take care of this for you. Others may charge extra or leave it to you. If you’re managing your move solo, our guide to renting in Germany can help with other key steps like registration and documentation.

All in, expect around €80 to €200 in registration costs, plus annual taxes and insurance. Factor those into your budget so you’re not caught off guard after the purchase.

What’s the best way to send money to Germany for purchasing a car?

Banks are certainly one option for sending money to Germany, as are services like PayPal. But the problem with banks is they can often be slow, expensive and inconvenient. Luckily, there’s a better alternative out there.

You can send money internationally with Wise for low fees and the mid-market exchange rate. It’s easy and quick to set up a payment online, and you’re guaranteed secure transfers even when sending large sums.

Wise is a money service business (MSB) regulated by 12 international financial authorities and uses sophisticated security features to keep you and your money safe.

Open a Wise account, and you can send, spend and convert between 40+ currencies whenever you need to. You can even receive money from all over the world using your own local account details.

As if all that wasn’t enough, there’s a Wise Multi-Currency Card too. For a one-time fee of just $9, you can spend in over 150 countries in the local currency. Your USD is automatically converted at the mid-market rate for just a small conversion fee.

Open a Wise account today

How to import a car from Germany to the US

Bringing a car from Germany to the US can be a smart move, especially if you’ve found a great deal on a luxury model or a vintage vehicle that’s hard to find stateside. But it’s not as simple as shipping it and calling it a day. There are regulations, paperwork, and fees to factor in.

Here’s what to know before you start.

1. Check if the car is eligible

Not all vehicles built for the European market can be legally driven in the US. To import a car without significant modifications, it must meet US safety and emissions standards.

Generally, you have two options:

• Over 25 years old: Exempt from most US regulations. This is the easiest category to import
• Under 25 years old: Must meet DOT and EPA standards or be imported through a Registered Importer (RI) who can modify the vehicle

You can check eligibility through the NHTSA’s Import Eligibility list or by contacting a Registered Importer directly.

2. Choose a shipping method

You’ll need to arrange international transport. Most people use one or two of these shipping options:

• Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): Your car is driven onto a ship. It’s the cheaper option, but you can’t use it to ship personal items
• Container shipping: More expensive but safer, and lets you include personal belongings

Popular departure ports in Germany include Hamburg and Bremerhaven. On the US side, common arrival ports are in Baltimore, New York, and Los Angeles.

Expect costs to range from $1,875 to $3,590, depending on method, distance, and insurance.⁷

3. Prepare the documents

You’ll need the following paperwork before your car can be shipped or cleared at customs:⁸

• Bill of sale
• Vehicle title or registration document (Zulassungsbescheinigung I & II)
• Export certificate from Germany
• Bill of lading from the shipping company
• EPA form 3520-1 or 2520-7 (to confirm emissions compliance)
• DOT form HS-7 (to confirm safety compliance)
• Photo ID and proof of US residency

Make sure all documents are translated into English if originally in German. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may hold or delay your car if anything is missing or unclear.

4. Pay the import duties

When your car arrives in the US, you’ll owe customs duties unless you’re exempt.

Here’s what to expect:⁹

• 2.5%: Passenger cars older than 25 years or temporarily returning to the US
• 25%: Newer passenger vehicles and light trucks under Section 232 and “chicken tax”
• 0%: US-made cars imported back within 3 years

These fees are based on the declared value of the car, so keep your purchase paperwork.

5. Clear US customs

Once your vehicle arrives, it will go through customs inspection. If everything is in order, you’ll receive a release form, allowing you to pick up the car.

Make sure the car is insured before pickup.

6. Register the car in your state

Every state has its own rules, but most will require:

• Proof of customs clearance
• EPA/DOT compliance
• Vehicle inspection
• Payment of local taxes and fees

Contact your local DMV ahead of time to avoid delays or extra paperwork.

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Buying a car in Germany as an American is possible, and often worth it, as long as you know the costs and steps involved before you start.

From paperwork to payments, planning ahead will save time and money. And if you’re sending funds from the US, Wise makes it easy to pay in euros with low fees* and fair rates.

With the right setup, you can get behind the wheel and drive with confidence.

Wise can help you get a better deal on currency conversion. You can convert over 40 currencies at the standard mid-market exchange rate, and we'll show you the fees upfront so you know exactly how much you're paying.

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Sources

1. WC Shipping – Buying cars in Germany to import to USA
2. Kummuni – Buy a car in Germany
3. All About Berlin – The cost of owning a car in Germany
4. eCars Trade – Car taxes in Germany
5. Settle in Germany – Car insurance in Germany
6. Lingoda – Registering a car in Germany
7. BR Logistics – Ship a car from Germany to USA
8. USA Customs Clearance – Documents to import and export
9. Schumacher Cargo Logistics – Vehicle import into USA

Sources checked 07/30/2025