If you drive or park a vehicle on public roads, the corresponding licence plate must be properly affixed to the vehicle.

Licence plates on vehicles, colloquially known as number plates, serve as official identification of vehicles and as visible proof that the vehicle is allowed to drive on the road. In the event of traffic offences or accidents, the number plates can be used to identify the owner.

The registration authority assigns you a licence plate number as part of the registration process. The licence plate consists of one to three letters for the administrative district in which the vehicle is registered and an identification number relating to the individual vehicle. As a rule, you can choose a licence plate of your choice for a fee.

The following licence plates are available:

• general licence plates
• Classic car licence plates
• Seasonal licence plates
• Licence plates for electrically powered vehicles

The allocated number plate must be affixed to a licence plate and must bear the stamp of the registration authority. You must have the licence plates stamped yourself.

As a rule, licence plates must be affixed to the front and rear of the vehicle. Exceptions to the design and attachment must be legally authorised or entered in the registration certificate part I.

The use of vehicles without permanently attached licence plates is generally not permitted on public roads. Some vehicles without registration also require licence plates, for example

• Light motorbikes,
• Forklift trucks,
• self-propelled machines and
• Trailers for sports purposes or work machines.