Apply for proof of general operating license for vehicles and trailers from the former GDR

You can apply online or by post to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) for a general operating license (ABE).

Apply online:

• Visit KBA-Online and select "Proof of ABE".
• A BundID account is required for the application.
• Fill out the application form truthfully.
• Attach the required images to your application.
• When applying online, the fee is paid in advance. Payment is possible by credit card or giropay.
• If necessary, the KBA will contact you to clarify any further questions regarding your application.
• If the KBA approves your application, the KBA will send you the certificate by post.
• If the KBA rejects your application, you will also be informed of this by post.

Application by post:

• Visit the website of the Federal Motor Transport Authority and download the relevant application form.
• Complete the application form truthfully by hand or digitally.
• Print out the form and sign it by hand.
• Attach the required images to your letter.
• If necessary, the KBA will contact you to clarify any further questions regarding your application.
• If the KBA approves your application, the KBA will send you the certificate by post.
• Payment will be made by cash on delivery when the certificate is sent.
• If the KBA rejects your application, you will also be informed of this by post.

Proof of the general operating license can be requested by the owner for

• Vehicles that were first put on the road before March 1, 1992. For example
  • Mopeds, such as mokicks or mopeds,
  • Bicycles with an auxiliary motor,
  • light motorcycles and
  • trailers without registration
• motorized ambulances from the former GDR that were first put on the road before March 1, 1991.
• Vehicles listed above whose frame and type plate are in their original condition and originate from the former German Democratic Republic (GDR).

You must submit your application:

• the following photos for a vehicle:
  • Front view
  • Left side view
  • Right side view
  • Fully visible and recognizable type plate
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN) stamped into the frame

• in the case of a trailer, the following photos:
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN) stamped into the frame
  • Fully visible and recognizable type plate

• You must also provide the following additional information about the vehicle:
  • Type designation
  • Year of manufacture
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • Vehicle details, e.g. number of gears, ignition system, voltage, starter, maximum speed, battery, horns, handlebar shape, footrests, indicators, seats, exhaust
  • If required, details of conversions, e.g. replacement engine

• For a trailer, you must provide the following information:
  • Year of construction
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)

• The application must also contain the following personal data:
  • Contact details: First and last name, telephone number, e-mail address
  • Billing address and, if required, a different address for postal delivery of the proof

Verkehrsblattverlautbarung No. 238 (VkBL 1991 p. 736) in conjunction with Unification Treaty Chapter XI, Sgb. B, Section III

• § Section 20 of the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO)

• Objection
• Administrative action

Vehicles that were produced for export did not receive an ABE from the Motor Vehicle Technical Office (KTA) of the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) and therefore do not fall under the exemption regulation of the Unification Treaty. The Federal Motor Transport Authority cannot issue a new certificate for these vehicles.

Exported vehicles always require an individual operating permit from the local road traffic authority. As part of the registration procedure at the road traffic authority, an expert opinion from an officially recognized expert or an officially recognized expert from a technical service is usually required.

18.11.2024