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How does the no-claims bonus work for car insurance in Germany?

When you take out car insurance in Germany, your driving history plays a big role in what you pay. Here’s what you need to know:

Chris avatar
Written by Chris
Updated over a week ago

What is the no-claims bonus?

In Germany, the no-claims bonus (Schadenfreiheitsrabatt, or SFR) applies to your liability and fully comprehensive (Vollkasko) insurance policies. For each year you’re insured without making a claim, your SF class (Schadenfreiheitsklasse) improves, and your premium becomes cheaper.

What are SF classes?

Your SF class reflects how many consecutive claim-free years you’ve had. Each class corresponds to a discount percentage that’s applied to your insurance premium.

These percentages show examples for how much of the original premium you might pay (not the amount that’s discounted). The exact amount can vary, but in general the higher the class, the less you pay:

SF Class

Percentage paid

Notes

M

135%

Malus class - multiple claims

S (0)

95%

Special - no claim history

SF 1/2

68%

Starting class for new drivers

SF1

57%

One claim-free year

SF5

42%

Five claim-free years

SF10

33%

Ten claim-free years

SF20

24%

20 claim-free years

SF25+

21% or lower

Maximum discount

What SF class do I start with?

Most drivers start with SF0 or SF½ if you are unable to prove any auto insurance history. But if you have a record of your past auto insurance, you can transfer your SF class from another German insurer (or from an international one, depending on the provider).

What are M and S classes?

  • M (Malus): Assigned after multiple claims. Results in significantly higher premiums.

  • S (Sonderklasse): A special class for drivers with unknown or very short driving histories.

So I can keep my SF class if I switch insurers?

Yes! Your SF class follows you, and your new insurer will ask for proof of your claim-free years from your previous provider. We’ll help with that if you’re switching to Feather.

Can I lose my no-claims bonus?

It's possible. If you cause an accident and file a claim, your SF class may drop, and your premium will increase. The more severe the claim, the steeper the downgrade.

Can someone else inherit my no-claims bonus?

Sometimes. Some insurers allow you to transfer your SF class to a close family member (like a spouse or child), but conditions usually apply. For example, they must have driven the vehicle regularly and have a valid license.

Still have questions?

We’re happy to help. If you’re unsure which SF class applies to you or need support switching from another insurer, feel free to reach out to our team!

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