About 120,000 vehicles in Saxony are being put into winter storage

For tens of thousands of motorcycles, cars, and RVs in Saxony, hibernation began in November. For approximately 120,300 vehicles with seasonal license plates, the registered operating period ended in late October. This is according to a special analysis by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) for the German Press Agency.

At the start of the year, a total of approximately 147,300 cars and motorcycles with seasonal license plates were registered in Saxony. In addition to motorcycles, the category of “motorcycles” also includes, for example, motor scooters. More than eight out of ten of the vehicles recorded had October as their last month of operation. Approximately 8,500 recreational vehicles were also registered with such license plates. These are already included in the statistics under the category of cars. For another 17,600 vehicles, November is listed as the last month of the season.

Why Seasonal License Plates Are Worth It

Seasonal license plates are primarily intended for vehicles that are used only part of the year—such as motorcycles, convertibles, or motorhomes. The advantage: Owners do not have to re-register and deregister their vehicle every year. In addition, vehicle tax and insurance premiums are generally due only for the registered period. For example, someone who uses their motorcycle only from April through October can save money this way.

The operating period must be at least two months and no more than eleven months. The applicable months are indicated on the right-hand side of the license plate. The top number indicates the start of the season, and the bottom number indicates the end.

What Owners Need to Keep in Mind During Winter

Once the season is over, the vehicle may no longer be driven or parked on public roads. Anyone with a seasonal license plate valid from April through October must store their motorcycle or car off public roads starting November 1, such as in a garage or on a suitable private parking space. Parking on the side of public roads is also prohibited.

Anyone who drives outside the registered period risks a fine of 50 euros. A fine of 40 euros is imposed for parking in public traffic areas. There are also restrictions regarding insurance coverage: Outside the season, there is generally only so-called “dormant insurance,” which does not cover driving on public roads.

Anyone who wishes to use their vehicle for a longer period—for example, because the weather in the fall is still ideal for riding a motorcycle—can have the operating period changed at the registration office. To do so, you must apply for a new seasonal license plate.