Environmental Sticker in Germany

The environmental zone sticker is mandatory in Germany. These windshield stickers are in three colors, i.e. green (shows environmentally acceptable vehicle), yellow (less acceptable than green), and red (still acceptable). A fourth colored sticker in blue is under consideration also. From the year 2018, there are some areas where diesel vehicles are not allowed to enter. Catalytic converters are mandatory to enter these zones. Vehicles found in an environmental zone without an appropriate sticker are subject to a €10 fine. A total absence of an environmental zone sticker can cost €100 fine.

The main goal of establishing environmental zones is to protect the inhabitants of the cities and municipalities against the presence of fines particles in the air.

The environmental zone starts with sign 270-1, which may have supplementary signs.

Supplementary signs for Environmental zone sign are as follows:

There can be environmental zone signs where some particular vehicles are allowed, for example:

Foreign plated vehicles, as well as vehicles belonging to NATO forces in Germany also require to have environmental zone stickers. They can be obtained online, at authorized garages, and vehicle inspection stations like TÜV. At the TÜV office, they cost €5, while online and at garages, they can be a bit costly.

Sign 270-2 marks the end of an environmental zone.

Another type of sticker is HU-sticker or normally called TUV sticker, which is associated with the general safety inspection of the car. Please read this article for more details.