Think about what you plan to take with you, what you need to ship and what coverage you need to help protect your stuff.
Get covered before you move in 3 easy steps.
Steps to complete Get covered before you move in 3 easy steps.
Need to transfer an existing USAA policy?
We can get you a policy that helps protect you in Germany. We’ll make sure you don’t lose your coverage when you need it most.
Call the policy service number for your location to get started.
Get tips on safe driving in Germany to protect you and your car.
5 tips for safe driving in Germany
Video Duration: 2 minutes 40 seconds
Driving in Germany: Elapsed time 0 minutes 0 seconds [0:00]
Driving in Germany can be a challenging and beautiful experience. It’s important to know the rules of the road and differences between driving in the US and Germany.
Here are the top 5 things every American should know before they get behind the wheel.
The Autobahn: Elapsed time 0 minutes 16 seconds [0:16]
First up: the Autobahn. Germany is famous for its high-speed highways, and yes, there are stretches without speed limits. But don't get too excited. While certain areas allow for thrilling speeds, many parts have posted limits. Always watch for signs and remember to obey traffic laws and drive safely.
It’s important to be aware that it’s mandatory to look twice over your shoulder before passing a car. Accidents can occur when drivers don’t visually check behind them by looking over their shoulder a second time before overtaking another vehicle.
Traffic signs: Elapsed time 0 minutes 51 seconds [0:51]
Number two: Traffic signs will look different to Americans. The German road sign system uses standardized shapes, symbols and colors to communicate warnings, regulations, guides and supplemental information. Before hitting the road, make sure to be familiar with the signage.
Roundabouts: Elapsed time 1 minute 8 seconds [1:08]
Third: Take extra caution when navigating roundabouts and rights-of-way. In Germany, vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way. So, if you're entering a roundabout, yield to traffic already circulating. Germany also uses the right-before-left rule when turning right. This means you must yield to traffic coming from your right when approaching an intersection that has no traffic signs or lights.
Parking: Elapsed time 1 minute 32 seconds [1:32]
Fourth on the list: German cities are strict about parking regulations. Look out for signs indicating parking zones, and always pay attention to the hours of operation for parking meters. Illegal parking can result in fines or even your car being towed. German environmental and noise laws also prohibit unnecessary idling.
Safety: Elapsed time 1 minute 54 seconds [1:54]
And finally, safe driving is more than controlling your vehicle. It’s mandatory for drivers and passengers to wear a seat belt in the car. Drivers should have a safety kit in the vehicle for use in the event of an accident or emergency. And your car should have the appropriate tires for the season. Winter tires are mandatory during snowy seasons and can help keep you safer and in better control of your car.
In conclusion: Elapsed time 2 minutes 18 seconds [2:18]
Always remember to call for emergency help if it’s needed. Never leave the site of an accident without seeking or giving aid. Dial 112 if you need an ambulance and 110 if you need police.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to navigate Germany with ease.
End: Elapsed time 2 minutes 40 seconds [2:40]
Germany overseas insurance FAQ
License plates and registration
If you buy a car in Germany, the local civilian license plate stays on the vehicle and transfers to you.
You can get new license plates for imported vehicles through:
- A U.S. military vehicle registration office for military plates.
- A U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate for diplomatic or consulate plates.
If you need local German civilian, seasonal or export license plates, contact us for more information.
The U.S. Army Europe, or USAREUR, system requires a white card to register your vehicle. Let us know when you arrive so we can update your coverage and send the white card to the USAREUR registration office.
If you need help to register your vehicle, contact us.
Proof of insurance
Your license plate and registration paperwork are your proof of insurance in Germany. Unlike the U.S., Germany doesn’t require you to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle.
We'll provide an international motor insurance card.
It depends on your vehicle registration type and German residency status. We may charge you a monthly Insurance Premium Tax on your auto insurance policy.
Refer to your declarations documents for details.
Your auto coverage
If you’re shipping your car, keep your overseas policy until it arrives. Then we can help you transfer your coverage to a stateside policy. You just need to USAA contact us page.
If you’re not taking your car, remove your name from the registration and your insurance papers from the car. After that, you can cancel the policy. You’ll need to pay a premium for any coverage you’ve received.
Your renters coverage
Keep your overseas policy while your stuff is in shipment. That way you still have protection for any covered losses on the way.
When you and your stuff are back in the U.S., we can help transfer your policy. When you’re ready, contact us.
Before you drive
- Most countries will require you to complete an accident report form. In your vehicle, you should carry a blank copy of the PDF of European Accident Statement Opens in a New Window.
- Many countries require you to have warning triangles, reflective vests and a first-aid kit in case of an accident. Check local driving regulations to find out more.
- Keep a copy of your green card handy as proof of insurance.
At the scene of the accident
- Dial 112 for emergency service in Europe. You may need to contact the police if there are injuries, you're in a hit-and-run, or the other party is uncooperative and at fault.
- Don't sign anything except the European Accident Statement. This lets each driver explain what happened but doesn't assign blame.
- Take pictures of the accident scene and damaged vehicles, including license plates. If possible, get the other driver’s name, driver’s license number, address and phone number. Also get the name of their insurance carrier, policy number and vehicle registration.
- Use a translation app to help communicate in the local language.
- In a one-car incident, find the owner of any damaged property to complete a report. If you can’t find them, leave a note at the scene and report it at the nearest police station.
Filing a claim after an accident
You can file a claim on the USAA Mobile App main page. Or you can file online USAA claims main page. As soon as possible, contact a USAA claims representative USAA contact us page.