08/01/2010
Some German cities only admit cars with an environment sticker
 This also applies to tourist cars
Only cars bearing an environment sticker are admitted
The so-called ‘Umweltplakette’ is compulsory in more and more German towns. In some German towns, such as Berlin, Cologne and Hanover, cars without an environmental sticker are no longer welcome. Other towns will soon follow this example.
Not only towns, but also some traffic junctions and busy highways can ban vehicles which harm the air quality. They are marked by traffic signs saying ‘Umweltzone’. These Umweltzones are supposed to reduce concentrations of fine particulates in these areas. For a current list of Umweltzones look at the website “Umwelt Bundes Ambt“.
Three colours to designate the emission classifications
 Vehicles that enter these Umweltzones must bear an environment sticker or Umweltplakette, corresponding to the classification stated for the Umweltzone. Private cars and delivery vehicles, buses and lorries must carry this environment sticker. Anyone who drives in these zones without an environment sticker is liable to be fined. This also applies to foreign vehicles.
Environment stickers come in three colours corresponding to the emissions class with which the vehicle complies. The colour of the environmental sticker determines whether you are allowed to enter the Umweltzone or not. The lower part of the signs tells you this.
Can be obtained in Germany or ordered in advance
It is easy to obtain the Umweltplakette in Germany from approved garages, authorised filling stations and TÜV offices (technical inspectorate). The VAB (in French)) has determined from comparative research that the prices range between € 6 and € 8.5.
You can order the environmental sticker before you leave:
- By e-mail from kfz-zulassung@labo.verwalt-berlin.de, together with a copy of the registration document for the vehicle which states the emissions class. After receiving and checking the document, they will send a payment request for an amount of € 6 (price in 2009) and the sticker will be sent in the post.
- By post from the registration office in Cologne. You need to download the application form from their website and complete and send this with a copy of the vehicle registration document to: Kfz-Zulassungsstelle, Max-Glomsda-Straße 4, D-51105 Köln. You also need to include a 5 euro note or a crossed cheque. You will receive the sticker in the post.
- You can also order it from Dekra, TÜV Nord or Umweltplakette.de. The VAB has determined from comparative research that the prices range between €12.50 and € 39.95.
Further information
You can find a detailed article and comparative study on the VAB website.
You can find more information in English on this website.
The ADAC (German Automobile Association ) has also published an information card for foreign car owners in English.
eap
|
Favorites
Email
Facebook
Netlog
Twitter