Classic cars: For the H license plate, the vehicle must meet a number of requirements
Created: 12/27/2022, 06:00
By: Sebastian Oppenheimer
An H license plate for a classic car offers a number of advantages.
However, the vehicle must meet a number of requirements for this – among other things, it needs a special report.
For many there is nothing better than a brand new vehicle - but that is not an option for every driver.
On the one hand, this has to do with the fact that the prices for new cars are currently relatively high, but also with the fact that the decision between electric cars, plug-in hybrids and conventional combustion engines is not easy at the moment.
In addition, most manufacturers only produce uniform SUVs - at least that's what it feels like.
You have to search a long time for really exciting and unusual automotive design.
The solution for everyone who doesn't necessarily want to go with the crowd: a classic car - even in 2023 numerous models will reach the appropriate age.
In many cases, the H license plate introduced in 1997 is a cheap solution for such a vehicle.
H license plate: Which requirements your vehicle must meet
A so-called H license plate (the "H" stands for "historical") offers a number of advantages for classic car owners, including:
a favorable, flat-rate tax rate (cars & trucks 191.73 euros, motorcycles 46.02 euros)
Even insurance companies often have special tariffs for classic cars
the vehicle does not need a catalytic converter
Entry into environmental zones is also possible without a fine dust sticker
For an H license plate, vintage cars must meet a number of requirements.
(Iconic image) © Carsten Rehder/dpa
H license plate: The vehicle must be in its original condition
However, in order to get the coveted number plate with the “H” at the end, a vehicle must meet a number of requirements.
In principle, the H license plate is only available from a vehicle age of 30 years.
In addition, the vehicle must be in what is known as its original condition.
An outdated paintwork or add-on parts are possible exclusion criteria.
It should only be restored with original parts.
However, there are also exceptions: Changes that took place within the first few years after initial registration and were "typical of the time" are permitted.
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H license plate: classic car report is a prerequisite
The original condition must be confirmed by a recognized expert - for example from TÜV, Dekra, GTÜ or KÜS - in the form of a classic car report according to § 23 of the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO).
But even an original "Rustlaube" has no chance of an H license plate.
Because the classic car has to be in good technical condition - professional care is therefore recommended.
If you finally have the classic car certificate in your pocket, you can set off for approval.
According to Dekra, the following documents are required for this:
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the eVB number of the insurance company
the registration certificate I and II (vehicle registration and registration document)
a valid identity card or passport with a current confirmation of registration
the valid report of the main inspection
the classic car report
if applicable, the previous license plate number
H license plate: If you don't take care of your car, you can lose it again
According to the ADAC, there are no restrictions on trips abroad with an H license plate - and commercial use of a vehicle equipped with it is also possible.
However, you can also lose the H status again.
Because just like "normal" vehicles, an H classic car has to be inspected every two years.
The criteria for the H license plate are also checked.
If the vehicle is in poor condition, for example, or technical changes have been made, the H license plate can be revoked.
