Motor insurance for unregistered work machines
Avoid unexpected claims when using work machinery.
Manufacturer’s speed exceeds 25 km/h Manufacturer’s speed exceeds 14 km/h and weight is over 25 kg
When is motor insurance for work machines mandatory?
Requirement extended to work machines from 01.12.2024
Motor insurance is now mandatory for many unregistered vehicles that previously could not be insured.
Threshold: over 14 km/h and 25 kg
A work machine must be insured if its manufacturer’s speed exceeds 25 km/h, or if the speed exceeds 14 km/h and its weight is over 25 kg.
Closed territory may not be an exception
If the vehicle operates in an area accessible to other people (e.g. employees, clients, partners), it is not considered a closed territory.
Uninsured risk remains with the company
If insurance is missing, the company must cover damage caused to third parties from its own funds.
Voluntary liability insurance does not replace motor insurance
Voluntary liability insurance only covers damages not included in mandatory motor insurance — recent legal changes have clearly distinguished the roles of these two.
Mandatory traffic insurance
Covers damage caused when a work machine is moving and causes harm to another person or property.
Voluntary liability insurance
Covers damage occurring during work activities that is not covered by motor insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, even machines operating on private territory may require motor insurance. Although it is commonly believed that machines used on company premises do not need insurance, an area is not considered closed to public traffic if it is accessible to employees, clients, partners, or service providers — even on foot.
Yes. From December 1, 2024, it is possible and in many cases mandatory to take out motor insurance for unregistered work machines.
Motor insurance is required for unregistered work machines powered solely by a motor and whose manufacturer’s speed exceeds 25 km/h, or exceeds 14 km/h with a weight over 25 kg. Examples include forklifts, loaders, lawn tractors, and forestry machines.
No. Liability insurance does not replace mandatory motor insurance. If a work machine falls under motor insurance law, it must be insured accordingly. Liability insurance typically covers damages arising during work activities that motor insurance does not cover.
Traffic insurance covers damage caused by the work machine to third parties — such as damage to vehicles, property, or personal injuries.
No. Motor insurance only covers damage caused to others. To protect the machine itself, you should consider machinery and equipment insurance (CPM).
If an uninsured work machine causes damage, the company must cover it itself. Claims can reach thousands or even hundreds of thousands of euros.