Electric vehicle subsidy application

5 steps to the application

1. 1

   Set up BundID

   Authentication runs through BundID. Check the online ID function of your German ID card or an existing ELSTER certificate.

   Tip: Start early. eID activation and BundID setup can take several days.

2. 2

   Buy or lease and register the vehicle

   The vehicle must be a new EU class M1 vehicle registered to you as a private person. First registration must be in Germany from 1 January 2026.

   Tip: Before purchase, check vehicle type, technical conditions and income limit.

3. 3

   Gather documents

   Prepare purchase or leasing contract, registration certificate Part I, two current tax notices, child proof if relevant and IBAN.

   Tip: Household income does not mean only your own tax notice if additional household members count.

4. 4

   Submit the BAFA application

   The BAFA application has been available since 19 May 2026. For vehicles first registered from 1 January 2026, retroactive application is possible.

   Tip: Save the confirmation of receipt and all uploaded documents.

5. 5

   Check payout

   BAFA reviews the application and then pays the subsidy to the bank account. The subsidy is paid retroactively.

   Tip: Keep the 36-month holding period in mind to avoid repayment risk.

Timing and authority

Submit the application only through the official BAFA path. Providers can help with the vehicle purchase, but they do not replace the BAFA application.