Transfer of vehicle registration

If you transfer your permanent residence to Italy, you are required to re-register any vehicle registered in your name within 60 days. Be sure to read the updated rules of the Italian Highway Code. It is important that the vehicle is classified as part of your relocation goods; otherwise, the Italian state may levy VAT on its import. For this classification, the vehicle must have been registered in your name at least six months before the change of residence, must be brought into Italy within one year, and must be re-registered in your name there. In addition, you may not sell the vehicle within one year after re-registration.

After deregistering the vehicle in Germany, you must present a certified copy of the registration document and the deregistration certificate to the relevant Italian vehicle registration office (motorizzazione civile). You will then be issued a new Italian registration certificate (carta di circolazione) and the corresponding ownership certificate (foglio complementare). If your vehicle is more than four years old, you must also undergo a roadworthiness inspection (collaudo).

Taxes and fees

The annual vehicle tax (tassa di circolazione) varies from region to region and is calculated based on engine power per kilowatt multiplied by the emissions class. The legally required emissions test must be carried out annually in Italy. The emissions sticker (bollino blu), a blue decal that must be affixed to the windshield and be clearly visible from outside, costs under €20. For registration (immatricolazione) and the obligatory entry in the public automobile register (Pubblico Registro Automobilistico, PRA), you must expect additional one-off fees, which vary depending on region and vehicle type.

Luxury tax

The additional levy on powerful cars, known as Superbollo, was introduced in July 2011. Initially, it applied to cars with more than 225 kW, but as of January 1, 2012, the threshold was lowered to 185 kW. For every kilowatt above this limit, €20 is due. Reductions apply as follows: 40% after 5 years (from the year of manufacture), 70% after 10 years, 85% after 15 years, and full exemption after 20 years. This tax is due at the same time as the annual vehicle tax. If it is paid late, only partially, or not at all, an additional 30% penalty on the outstanding amount is charged. Although there has been ongoing debate since 2019 about abolishing the Superbollo, it remains in effect for the time being.

Car insurance

As elsewhere, third-party liability insurance is mandatory in Italy. Once your vehicle is registered with Italian license plates and insured in Italy, you must display proof of coverage in the windshield. In the event of an accident, it is strongly recommended to fill out a European accident report (constatazione amichevole dell’incidente – CID) directly at the scene together with the other party involved. This helps prevent later disputes and avoids unnecessary delays in claim settlement. A copy of this form, which you should always keep in your vehicle, is usually provided by your insurance company when you sign your policy.