Schlüsselnummern

Schlüsselnummern are a classification system used in Germany to categorize various aspects of vehicles, primarily for registration and insurance purposes. The most common context for Schlüsselnummern is within the vehicle registration documents, specifically the Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I (Vehicle Registration Document Part I), often referred to as the Fahrzeugschein. These numbers are crucial for identifying specific vehicle types and their associated insurance premiums.

There are two main types of Schlüsselnummern that are important for vehicle owners. The first is the "Herstellerschlüsselnummer" (HSN), which identifies the vehicle manufacturer. This is a four-digit number. The second is the "Typschlüsselnummer" (TSN), which identifies the specific model and engine variant of the vehicle. This is typically a three-digit number, though it can sometimes be longer depending on the vehicle. Together, the HSN and TSN uniquely identify a particular vehicle type.

Insurers use these Schlüsselnummern to accurately classify vehicles and determine insurance risk. Different models and engine types have varying accident rates and repair costs, which directly influence the insurance premium. Garages and repair shops also rely on these numbers for ordering correct parts and accessing technical information. Beyond insurance and repairs, Schlüsselnummern play a role in vehicle inspections (Hauptuntersuchung) and taxation. They ensure that vehicles are correctly identified within the German administrative system.