Electronic insurance confirmation: understanding and making the most of your digital key to vehicle registration
23.06.25
3
Minutes
Katrin Straub
Managing Director at nextsure
The electronic insurance confirmation, known as eVB, is essential for vehicle registration in Germany. Since 2008, it has replaced the old double card and has significantly simplified the process. Find out how this digital system speeds up your journey to your preferred licence plate.
The topic in brief and concise terms
The electronic insurance confirmation (eVB) is a seven-digit code that serves as digital proof of motor vehicle liability insurance for vehicle registration in Germany and has replaced the paper form since 2008.
You will receive the eVB number free of charge from your insurer, usually online or by telephone, and it is generally valid for a one-time registration process.
The eVB is required for new registrations, changes of registration, re-registrations and temporary licence plates; the data is transmitted electronically between the insurer and the licensing authority.
Electronic insurance confirmation (eVB) at a glance: What you need to know
The electronic insurance confirmation, often abbreviated to eVB, is digital proof of an existing motor vehicle liability insurance policy for a vehicle. Since its introduction in 2008 by the Vehicle Registration Ordinance (FZV), it has been a central element in the registration of motor vehicles in Germany. It replaced the former paper insurance certificate and simplified the process for millions of registration transactions each year. The eVB number is a seven-digit code made up of letters and numbers that you receive from your insurer. This code is required at the registration office in order to verify insurance cover digitally. Without a valid eVB number, vehicle registration is not possible. The switch to the electronic procedure has significantly sped up and made communication between insurers, the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) and the registration authorities more secure. This digital proof is therefore the first step on the way to your registered vehicle.
How the eVB process works: From application to registration
The process of obtaining and using an electronic insurance confirmation is straightforward and designed for efficiency. You apply for the eVB number directly from the motor insurer of your choice, often online or by phone within a few minutes. After successful application, the insurer usually sends you the seven-digit eVB number by email or SMS. This number contains encrypted data on the policyholder and the scope of cover. The registration authority accesses this data via a central database of the German Insurance Association (GDV). The transmission takes place almost in real time. To apply, the insurer generally requires details about the vehicle owner and the vehicle. The system reduces sources of error, as no manual data transfer is necessary any more. This speeds up the entire registration process.
When is an eVB number required? The most common practical use cases
In Germany, you need the electronic insurance confirmation for various procedures relating to your motor vehicle. At least five scenarios require presentation of a valid eVB number at the registration office. Here are the main use cases summarised for you:
First registration of a brand-new or imported vehicle.
Re-registering a vehicle when ownership changes, for example after a sale.
Re-registration of a vehicle that was previously taken out of service or deregistered.
Applying for a temporary licence plate for test drives or transfer journeys, often valid for five days.
Recording technical changes to the vehicle that require an amendment to the vehicle documents.
Re-registering the vehicle when you move to a new registration district.
Applying for new number plates, for example after loss or theft.
For each of these procedures, a separate eVB number is required. Once used, an eVB number loses its validity for any further registration procedures. So if you are planning, for example, to buy a new car and deregister your old one, you will need a fresh eVB number for the new registration. Careful application ensures that your request can be processed promptly by the registration authority.
Validity, costs and important details about the eVB number: What you should bear in mind
The electronic insurance confirmation is free of charge for you as the policyholder; the fee is included in the regular insurance premium of your motor vehicle insurance. The validity period of an eVB number can vary depending on the insurer, but is often between three and six months. Some insurers also issue it for up to 24 months. What is important is: an eVB number is generally valid for only one registration process. Once you have successfully registered your vehicle, the number used loses its function. If you do not use the eVB number within its period of validity, it expires automatically and you may need to apply for a new one. It is advisable to request the eVB number only shortly before the planned visit to the registration office to ensure that it is still valid. It is usually sent within a few minutes.
Expert knowledge on eVB: understanding the legal foundations and special cases
The legal basis for the electronic insurance confirmation can be found in the Vehicle Registration Ordinance (FZV). This ordinance requires insurers to transmit proof of liability cover electronically to the registration authorities. The data exchange takes place via a central body, GDV Dienstleistungs-GmbH, which ensures a high level of data security and efficiency. One important point: the eVB initially only confirms the existence of the legally required motor vehicle liability insurance. Any desired comprehensive cover must be applied for separately from the insurer and is not automatically covered by the issuance of the eVB. For special requirements, such as large company vehicle fleets, insurers can also issue permanent eVBs, which are valid for several registration processes. Our expert tip: Before going to the registration office, check that your personal details on the eVB confirmation are correct to avoid delays. Incorrect information can mean that the registration office does not accept the eVB number. In such cases, the insurer must be contacted to obtain a corrected or new number. Knowing these details will help you handle the process of vehicle registration with confidence.
The way to your eVB number: Simple and quick with nextsure
Applying for your electronic insurance confirmation is a straightforward process that paves the way for registering your vehicle. With many providers, including nextsure, you can request your eVB number in just a few steps online or by phone. You will usually receive this seven-digit number promptly by email or SMS. This number is your key to quick and hassle-free vehicle registration. Make sure that all details are correct to avoid any queries from the registration office. With a valid eVB number and the other required documents, such as the insurance certificate and the vehicle documents, nothing stands in the way of successful registration. The digitisation of this process has significantly reduced waiting times and the likelihood of errors, benefiting thousands of vehicle owners every year. This service is an example of how digital solutions in the insurance industry can make everyday life easier.
Once your vehicle has been successfully registered with the registration authority using the electronic insurance confirmation, the specific eVB number has served its purpose. It is marked as used in the system and is no longer valid for any further registration processes. You therefore do not need to keep or archive the number. Insurance cover for your vehicle begins with registration, based on the contract you have concluded with your insurer. The official proof of your insurance cover is then the insurance certificate (policy), which you receive from your insurer. The eVB number is therefore a temporary but necessary tool in the registration process. For future registration processes, such as changing vehicles or re-registering, you will always need a new, up-to-date eVB number. The policy number remains relevant for the duration of your contract.
Common sources of error and how to avoid them with the eVB
Although the eVB process is very efficient, small mistakes can lead to delays in registration. A common source of errors is, for example, typos when entering personal data or the vehicle identification number (VIN) when applying for the eVB. Even a transposed number can mean that the registration authority cannot retrieve the data correctly. Another point is validity: if an eVB number is applied for too early and the registration date is postponed, the number may already have expired. So make sure you check all details carefully and apply for the eVB close to the registration date. Also ensure that the eVB is issued to the correct vehicle owner; this does not necessarily have to be the policyholder. If there are any discrepancies, the registration authority may refuse acceptance, which would require you to contact the insurer again and obtain a new eVB number. Careful preparation will save you time and possible additional trips.
Your next step: Personalised advice for optimal protection
The electronic insurance confirmation is an important building block for your mobility. But the right insurance cover goes far beyond that. At nextsure, we understand that every driving situation and every vehicle has individual requirements. That is why we offer you not only a quick and straightforward eVB number, but also comprehensive advice on your motor vehicle liability insurance and optional comprehensive insurance. A well-chosen policy protects you from financial risks and gives you peace of mind on the road. Use our expertise to find the cover that suits you. We analyse your needs and prepare a tailored quote for you. That way, you are well covered not only during registration, but also on every journey. Request an individual risk analysis now: Have your insurance situation reviewed free of charge and receive specific suggestions for improvement.
More useful links
Wikipedia provides a comprehensive explanation of the electronic insurance confirmation process in Germany.
The Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) provides information about digital vehicle registration (i-Kfz) and the internet-based registration process.
The GDV Service GmbH provides information on the data logistics service of the German Insurance Association (GDV).
Statistics on new vehicle registrations are available on the website of the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA).
The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) offers tables and data on new vehicle registrations.
FAQ
What exactly is the eVB number?
The eVB number is a seven-character alphanumeric code (e.g. A1BC25Z) issued by your motor insurance provider. It serves as electronic proof for the registration authority that your vehicle has valid motor third-party liability insurance.
For which procedures do I need an eVB number?
You require an eVB number for the initial registration of a vehicle, when changing a vehicle or registered keeper, for the re-registration of a decommissioned vehicle, when moving to another registration district, or when applying for short-term licence plates.
How do I get an eVB number?
You can apply for the eVB number directly from your chosen motor insurer. This can usually be done online via the insurer’s website, by telephone or by email. The number is then often sent to you immediately by email or SMS.
Is the eVB number free of charge?
Yes, the issuing of the eVB number itself is free of charge for the policyholder. The costs for this are already included in your motor insurance premiums.
How long is my eVB number valid?
The validity period of an eVB number is determined by the respective insurer and is usually between three and six months, but a maximum of 24 months. It is only valid for a single registration process.
What happens if my eVB number is not accepted during registration?
If your eVB number is not accepted, this may be due to incorrect data or an expired validity period. In this case, contact your insurer immediately to have the data corrected or to obtain a new eVB number.
