Germany to waive green sticker requirement for electric vehicles

The German Bundesrat has approved a new regulation regarding environmental zones. Starting as early as late 2026, vehicles with an ‘E’ license plate—which includes electric vehicles and certain plug-in hybrids—will no longer be required to display a green environmental sticker to enter these zones.

Currently, the green sticker is mandatory for access to environmental zones, regardless of whether the vehicle is electric. Under the new rule, the ‘E’ designation on the license plate will serve as sufficient proof of eligibility. This change is expected to save vehicle owners and administrative bodies over six million euros annually.

The exact implementation date depends on the publication in the Federal Law Gazette. If published in September 2026, the rule takes effect on October 1, 2026; otherwise, it may begin on January 1, 2027.