The “X” in the license plate – a small letter that often raises big questions. What is hidden behind this mysterious symbol on our German license plates? In this article, we will explain the meaning of the “X” in the license plate in detail and answer all important questions on this topic. You will not only learn the official definition, but also practical tips and insights from a workshop perspective.
The “X” in the license plate stands for vehicles that have a registration district that was a former military base of the Allies. After the withdrawal of the Allied forces, these bases were released for civilian use. To clearly identify vehicles from these areas, the “X” was introduced. This means that the vehicle was registered in one of these former military bases, but not necessarily that it is a former military vehicle. A common misconception that we repeatedly encounter in the workshop. “Mr. Schmidt was convinced that his car with the ‘X’ on the license plate had a military past,” says master mechanic Hans Müller. “But he had bought it normally from a dealer on the former barracks grounds.”
The History of the “X” on License Plates
The introduction of the “X” in the license plate dates back to the time after the Second World War. With the stationing of Allied troops in Germany, numerous military bases were established. kennzeichen prägen lassen After their withdrawal, these areas were opened to the civilian population and required their own identification for vehicle registration. Thus, the “X” was introduced as a unique characteristic.
Which Registration Districts Use the “X”?
There are a limited number of registration districts that use the “X” in the license plate. Examples include BÜX for Büdingen (former US base) or HX for Heidelberg (former US base). The complete list of registration districts with “X” can be found on the websites of the registration offices.
Practical Meaning of the “X” on License Plates
kenzeichen vec From a technical point of view, the “X” in the license plate has no influence on the vehicle itself. It is merely an administrative feature. “The ‘X’ has no effect on repairs or diagnostics,” confirms Dr. Ing. Michael Schneider in his book “Modern Vehicle Technology”.
Close-up of a German license plate with an 'X' indicating technical aspects
Frequently Asked Questions about the “X” on License Plates
- Do I have to change my license plate if I move away from a registration district with “X”? Yes, you usually have to change your license plate if you move your residence to a different registration district.
- Can I keep a license plate with “X” even though I don’t live in a former military base? No, that is usually not possible. The “X” is tied to the registration district.
- What is the meaning of the “X” in the license plate for insurance? The “X” in the license plate has no direct impact on the insurance premium.
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Conclusion: The “X” – A Piece of History on the License Plate
The “X” in the license plate is an interesting detail that points to the history of former military bases in Germany. It has no technical significance for the vehicle, but only serves to uniquely identify the registration district.
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