07er-Kennzeichen
Germany's red classic-car plate (rotes 07-Kennzeichen): one transferable plate for several historic vehicles, usable only for events plus test, transfer and workshop drives – never for everyday use.
The 07er-Kennzeichen is a red German classic-car plate, officially a ‚red plate for recurring use“ (rotes Kennzeichen zur wiederkehrenden Verwendung). Introduced in the early 1990s, it is a transferable plate: a single red number whose digits start with „07“ can cover several historic vehicles driven in turn – but only one vehicle may be on public roads with it at any time. The current legal basis is §43 of the German Vehicle Registration Regulation (Fahrzeug-Zulassungsverordnung, FZV); until 2007 the rules were set by the individual federal states. Each registered vehicle needs a classic-vehicle assessment (Oldtimergutachten) under §23 StVZO: it must have been first registered at least 30 years ago, be largely original and in good condition, and serve the preservation of motoring heritage. The keeper's reliability is also checked, usually via a police certificate of good conduct and a record from the driver-fitness register in Flensburg. Use is tightly limited: permitted are participation in classic-car events (meetings, rallies, parades) including the drive there and back, plus test, transfer, inspection and workshop drives. Everyday trips, shopping or commercial use are forbidden; breaches can mean a fine and even loss of the plate. A logbook (Fahrtenbuch) must record every drive, and the vehicle document booklet must be carried. Tax is a flat rate – currently 191.73 euros a year for cars and 46.02 euros for motorcycles – regardless of how many vehicles are listed; only the highest-taxed vehicle is charged. Vehicles on an 07 plate are exempt from the periodic roadworthiness test (HU) and may enter all low-emission zones without an emissions sticker. Unlike the H-Kennzeichen, which covers the continuous operation of a single car, the 07er-Kennzeichen suits collectors who move several classics only occasionally and for specific purposes. Abroad it is officially recognised only in Switzerland; elsewhere – such as France or the Benelux countries – it is merely tolerated, so carrying proof of an event invitation is advisable.
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Related terms
FIVA
The Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens, the worldwide federation of historic vehicles founded in 1966. It protects and promotes motoring heritage and is a non-governmental partner of UNESCO.
Interchangeable plate
A Swiss licence plate used alternately on several vehicles – only one of which may be driven at a time. For veteran vehicles, more than two are allowed.
H-Kennzeichen
The German registration plate for classic cars; the 'H' stands for historisch (historic). It allows unrestricted use of an original vehicle at least 30 years old at a flat tax rate.