Apply for a red number plate (05-series number plate) for test drives

In Germany, you are generally only permitted to use vehicles that have been registered. However, an exception applies, for example, to test drives. During these drives, accredited experts assess whether the vehicle is roadworthy.

You can apply for a red number plate beginning with the number ‘05’. To do so, you must be a member of one of the following organisations:

• technical inspection body
• Technical service, designated by the Federal Motor Transport Authority
• recognised monitoring organisation

You will be granted this authorisation on a temporary or revocable basis, and for several vehicles if necessary.

If you use a red number plate, you must keep a special vehicle registration document. You can obtain this from the relevant registration authority.