Changing car insurance in Germany might sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re looking for better rates, improved coverage, or a provider with better customer service, it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to switch car insurance providers in Germany. All that is required is to understand the rules and deadlines.
In my over a decade of practice in Germany and 3 years in Switzerland, I’ve helped many drivers to make the switch.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to switch car insurance providers in Germany without a hassle. From understanding Kündigungsfristen (cancellation deadlines) to comparing quotes and filing your new policy with the Zulassungsstelle (registration office), I’ll help you make a stress-free transition.
Why Drivers in Germany Switch Car Insurance Providers
Each year, tens of thousands of policyholders switch their car insurance companies in Germany. The reasons vary, but some of the most common ones include:
- Rising premium costs despite no claims.
- Poor customer service or claim handling experiences.
- Better offers from competitors.
- A change in life circumstances, such as relocation, a new job, or a car upgrade.
According to a 2024 report by Check24, nearly 22% of German drivers switched their insurer last year, citing cost savings of up to 250 euros per year as the top motivation.
When Can You Switch Car Insurance Providers in Germany?
Germany operates under strict insurance contract laws. Normally, car insurance contracts run for a full calendar year and renew automatically unless you cancel in time.
You can only switch providers under the following conditions:
- At the End of the Contract Year: Most contracts end on December 31. To switch without penalty, your insurer must receive written notice by November 30 of the current year.
- After a Premium Increase: If your provider raises your premium without any claim made, you have a special right of termination within one month of being notified.
- After a Claim Is Settled: Even if the insurer paid your claim, you may switch providers within four weeks after the claim is closed.
- Vehicle Sale or De-registration: If you sell your car or deregister it in Germany, your existing insurance contract ends automatically.
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Step-by-Step Guide on Switching Car Insurance Providers in Germany
To switch car insurance providers in Germany without a hassle, follow this structured approach:
Step 1: Review Your Current Policy
Start by checking the details of your current car insurance policy. Note the end date, coverage levels, and whether there’s a no-claims bonus (Schadenfreiheitsrabatt). This will help you evaluate what to keep or improve in your next policy.
Step 2: Compare New Quotes
Use reliable German comparison portals like:
- Check24
- Verivox
- Nafi-Auto
When comparing, look beyond the base premium. Pay attention to:
- Deductibles (Selbstbeteiligung)
- Coverage limits
- Personal injury protection
- Glass and wildlife damage
- Optional breakdown assistance (Schutzbrief)
Step 3: Apply for Your New Policy
Once you’ve found a better offer, apply for your new insurance policy. The provider will issue you a new eVB number (Elektronische Versicherungsbestätigung), which will be used when notifying the registration office.
Step 4: Cancel Your Old Policy
If you’re switching at the end of the year, make sure your cancellation letter (Kündigungsschreiben) arrives by November 30. You can send it via email, fax, or registered post. Some insurers also allow online termination.
Include:
- Your name and address
- Policy number
- Date of termination
- Signature (if sending a printed letter)
Step 5: Notify the Zulassungsstelle (If Needed)
In most cases, your new insurance company will automatically inform the Zulassungsstelle about your new eVB number. But it’s good practice to follow up to ensure they received it, especially if you are registering a new or newly purchased vehicle.
How Long Does It Take to Switch Car Insurance in Germany?
If you’re switching due to an end-of-year cancellation, the process is timed around November and December. But if it’s due to a special right (like a price increase), the switch can happen within a month.
Once your new policy is active and eVB is sent to the Zulassungsstelle, the changeover typically becomes effective within a few days. This is the best-known way to cancel a car insurance policy without paying an extra fee.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Switching Car Insurance in Germany
Even though the process is simple, there are pitfalls to avoid:
- Missing the deadline: If your Kündigung doesn’t arrive on time, you’re locked in for another year.
- Overlooking hidden fees: Some low-cost policies charge high deductibles or exclude roadside assistance.
- Losing your no-claims bonus: Always confirm the transfer of your Schadenfreiheitsrabatt to your new provider.
Switching from Public to Private Insurers or Vice Versa
Most drivers in Germany use private insurers like:
Public insurers (like regional Sparkassen-Versicherungen) may offer discounts if you bundle with other household or personal policies.
Switching between these types usually follows the same process, but confirm if your old insurer has bundled products. You may need to renegotiate those, too.
How Sabine Saved €300 in Munich Simply by Changing Her Auto Insurance Provider
Sabine, a 37-year-old tech worker from Munich, switched providers in late 2024. Her old insurer had increased her comprehensive cover (Vollkasko) premium by 12%, despite no accident record.
After comparing quotes on Verivox, she found a similar plan at €300 less per year from CosmosDirekt. Her eVB was processed in two days, and she completed the switch before November 30. The process was smooth, and she even got better coverage for glass damage.
Tips to Make Your Switch Smooth and Stress-Free
- Start early: Begin comparisons in early November.
- Use digital tools: Portals like Check24 offer cancellation templates. You can compare the result with what you will get from these insurance quotes comparison websites.
- Don’t forget add-ons: Features like accident forgiveness (Rabattretter) and roadside assistance (Schutzbrief) can be worth it.
- Keep a copy of all communications: In case of disputes, it helps to have proof of cancellation and new policy activation.
Is It Worth Switching Car Insurance in Germany?
Yes! But only if the new policy matches or improves your current coverage. Most drivers who switch save between 150–300 euros per year. Additionally, some insurers offer welcome bonuses for new clients or multi-policy discounts.
However, don’t switch just for price. Evaluate customer service, claim history, and flexibility in policy features.
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Conclusion: Switch Car Insurance Providers in Germany the Smart Way
Switching car insurance providers in Germany doesn’t have to be a painful experience. With proper planning, careful comparison, and awareness of deadlines, you can save money while improving your coverage.
Whether you’re responding to a premium hike or proactively shopping for better protection, follow the steps outlined above and avoid the common mistakes. In doing so, you’ll position yourself as a savvy consumer while enjoying peace of mind on the road.
Still unsure about how to proceed? Reach out to a licensed insurance broker who can guide you step-by-step and ensure you never miss a critical detail.