Car drivers take note: Numerous new regulations and laws come into force at the turn of the year. These could affect your driving habits and your wallet. From stricter environmental regulations and mandatory tests to changes to car insurance, the new year brings many changes for road users that need to be observed.
This is about safety, environmental protection, harmonisation and modern standards on Germany's roads. Those who are well prepared can avoid fines and even benefit from some regulations. In this overview, you will find out what is changing and why it is worth keeping an eye on the new traffic regulations at an early stage.
Driving licence exchange: time for the new cheque card driving licence
The countdown is on: Until the 19 January 2025 all drivers born between 1971 and 1998 must exchange their old grey or pink driving licences for the modern credit card format. Drivers who miss this deadline risk a fine of ten euros. The new driving licence is then valid for 15 years and costs 25 euros.
For driving licences issued between 1999 and 2020, however, the deadline has been extended to 2026. With this important step, the legislator wants to ensure greater security and protection against counterfeiting.
CO₂ tax: driving will become more expensive
Drivers must drive from 1 January 2025 dig deeper into their pockets: The CO₂ tax rises to 55 euros per tonne. For consumers, this means that petrol is likely to 15.7 cents per litre more expensive, diesel even 17.3 cent will. The measure is part of the German government's climate package. With this package, it wants to promote the switch to more environmentally friendly means of transport.
One year later, the price will then be set by trading CO₂ certificates at between 55 and 65 euros per tonne.
Winter tyres with snowflake symbol mandatory
Already from the 1 October 2024 the following obligation applies to motorists: Only winter or all-season tyres with the "Alpine symbol" are permitted on winter roads. Old tyres with the "M+S" symbol may no longer be used. Drivers with the wrong tyres risk their safety and a fine. The new rule ensures greater standardisation and safety in winter traffic.
Main inspection: The colour changes
In 2025, the orange sticker on the licence plate will be a thing of the past. Drivers who still wear this colour must have their vehicle inspected. After a successful inspection, a yellow sticker will be issued. Be careful if you overstay your licence plate: you could be fined for as little as two months 15 Euro finefor more than eight months, it is even 60 euros and one point in Flensburg. It is therefore advisable to make an appointment for the main inspection in good time. Otherwise you risk unnecessary costs and hassle.
Car insurance: millions of drivers affected
For over 12 million car drivers there will be changes to the type classes in 2025. While 7.1 million higher contributions have to pay, benefit 5.1 million from more favourable classifications. There is also movement in the regional classes: 4.7 million insured persons save, while 9.4 million have to dig deeper into their pockets. The reason for this regulation is new statistics that are intended to better reflect accident risks.
Gas testing for motorhomes and caravans
Anyone who owns a motorhome or caravan must register by the 19 June 2025 take care of the inspection of the LPG systems. This inspection will be mandatory and must be repeated every two years thereafter. Anyone who ignores the new rule risks fines - graduated according to the length of time the deadline is exceeded, up to 60 euros for delays of more than eight months.
New standards for motorbikes and tyres
From the 1 January 2025 only motorbikes with the Euro 5+ standard may be registered for the first time. A transitional period also ends for tyres: tyres with a DOT number up to 2019 may only be driven with a clearance certificate. In future, deviations from the tyre dimensions in the vehicle registration certificate will require individual approval by TÜV or Dekra.
E-car bonus: GHG quotas remain attractive
In 2025, e-car owners will still be able to use their GHG certificates sell. Although the amount paid out varies, it remains an attractive way to save money. It is very important to note that the application must be submitted by 7 November 2025 otherwise the opportunity to receive the bonus is forfeited. For private individuals, the income continues to be tax-free.
More security, higher costs
The new traffic regulations for 2025 will therefore entail some cost increases, but also offer clear advantages in terms of safety and environmental protection. Drivers who inform themselves and prepare in good time will avoid fines and save money in the long term. Whether it's a change of driving licence or the CO₂ tax, 2025 will be a year of change on our roads.