Importing a Used Car from Germany: Complete Guide 2026

Importing a used car from Germany is the most popular choice for Czech buyers looking for a quality vehicle at a reasonable price. Germany offers a huge market with transparent vehicle histories and strict TÜV technical inspections. In this guide, we walk you through the entire process.

1. Choosing a Vehicle

The most popular portals are mobile.de and AutoScout24. When selecting a car, pay attention to:

Complete service history (Scheckheft gepflegt)
Number of previous owners (Anzahl der Fahrzeughalter)
Valid TÜV technical inspection (HU/AU)
Real photos of the vehicle, not just stock images

2. Checking the Vehicle History

Always verify the vehicle history before purchasing. Use services such as CarVertical, AutoDNA, or DEKRA. Check the VIN code to confirm it matches the documents, and verify that the vehicle has no accident or theft records.

3. Pre-Purchase Technical Inspection

Ideally, have an independent technical inspection carried out directly in Germany. You can use TÜV, DEKRA, or an independent mechanic. Check the following:

Chassis condition and corrosion
Functionality of all electronic systems
Paint thickness (a paint gauge reveals resprays after accidents)
Condition of tires, brakes, and shock absorbers

4. Purchase and Documentation

When buying from a private seller, you will need:

Purchase agreement (Kaufvertrag) — ideally in both German and your language
Vehicle registration certificate (Fahrzeugbrief / Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil II)
Registration document (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I)
Latest technical inspection report (TÜV/HU)
COC document (Certificate of Conformity) — if available, this greatly simplifies registration

5. Transport to the Czech Republic

You have three options: drive the car on temporary plates (Kurzzeitkennzeichen), have it transported on a flatbed, or use a vehicle shipping service. Temporary plates cost approximately 50–100 EUR and are valid for 5 days.

6. Registration in the Czech Republic

After importing, you must complete the following within 10 working days:

Pass the registration inspection at an STK (Czech vehicle inspection) station
Register the vehicle at the vehicle registry office
Pay the environmental tax (if applicable to your vehicle)
Arrange mandatory liability insurance

The entire import and registration process typically takes 2–4 weeks. With a professional service like CARFAST, we take care of everything for you.