In Germany, electric vehicles enjoy a few special privileges—mainly around parking. To make these benefits enforceable, there are dedicated traffic signs and supplementary plates. They mostly cover parking at charge points, free parking and low‑emission zones.
There are only a few signs that refer directly to electric cars. Almost all concern parking at charge points—specifically who may park there, and on what terms.
You’ll most often see the following combinations:
This makes a parking bay or road available exclusively to vehicles with an E number plate (or, for foreign vehicles, a blue E sticker).
Driving an electric car? Get the official E number plate, or you risk a fine—even at the charge point.
Parking is only allowed while the car is actually charging. If you’re not actively charging—battery full, cable not connected, that sort of thing—you can’t stay.
As with all signage, read from top to bottom. The combinations aren’t harmonised nationwide, so you’ll occasionally come across contradictory or confusing signs.
When in doubt, check the local notices—or give the local authority a ring.
This square information sign shows a stylised charge point and plug on a blue background. It indicates there’s a public charging station nearby. Important: this sign is purely informational. It does not regulate who may park—so petrol or diesel cars may park there unless additional rules apply. Only together with other signs (e.g. 'Parking for electric vehicles while charging only') does the area become exclusive to EVs. In short: it’s for orientation, not regulation.
Germany’s Electric Mobility Act (EmoG) allows local authorities to waive parking fees for electric vehicles or reserve bays for them. Many cities take up the option—each with its own twist:
In many cases, displaying a parking disc is sufficient.
Rules vary from city to city. To be sure, check the relevant municipality’s website.
A common misconception: 'Electric vehicles don’t need a green emissions sticker.' Reality: they do—in most cities, even though they’re zero‑emission at the tailpipe. Exception: In Berlin, EVs with an E number plate may enter the low‑emission zone without a sticker. Bavaria: since 2023, no sticker requirement for EVs.
The 'Luftreinhaltung' supplementary plate on speed limits often causes confusion. Good to know: it’s purely informational. The stated speed limit applies to all vehicles—diesel, petrol or electric. The plate simply explains that the limit was introduced for air‑quality reasons.
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EV Etiquette
