Registering and Insuring Your Car as a SOFA Member in Germany

Three things you need before you get tags

As a SOFA member you register through the USAREUR system, not the German civilian one. Before your vehicle registration office (VRO) will issue tags, you need three things: a USAREUR driver’s license, USAREUR-approved insurance, and a car that has passed the German safety inspection.

1. USAREUR driver’s license

  • Take the online test on JKO (Course IDs USA-007 and USA-007B) and score at least 85%.
  • Wait at least 24 hours before going to the driver testing station, because scores take that long to arrive. Your score is valid for 60 days.
  • The fee is $30, by check or money order. You get a temporary license the same day, and the card follows by mail.
  • Carry your stateside license with it at all times.

2. Insurance

  • Call your insurer 1–2 days before your VRO visit, so the policy is in the system when you arrive.
  • Ask for a blank insurance card. USAA, Mirascon and GEICO cards must be digital, while HUK and Allianz cards must be printed and brought in.
  • You need a new blank card every time your tags change.

3. Registration

  • Every used car bought in Germany must pass the German safety inspection first. Every car we sell has passed it before you take it over.
  • Book your VRO appointment online. Walk-ins are taken between appointments when there is time.
  • Bring your ID, USAREUR license, insurance card, bill of sale, title and orders. Pay the fee by check, money order or card; cash is not accepted.

Buying tax-free

Your tax-free purchase needs the AE Form 550-175A (the “Alpha Form”) from your local military customs office. It’s issued walk-in on weekdays from 0800 to 1600 and is valid for 90 days. We prepare the invoice in the exact format customs needs.

Fees and hours change

Check your garrison’s VRO page before you go. Stationed in Wiesbaden? Our Welcome to Wiesbaden page has the local addresses and hours.

Financing your car

See how car financing works for U.S. military in Germany.

Questions?

Call or WhatsApp +49 1512 075 6505, or email sales@autobahn66.net.