No-Claims Bonus Classes 2026:Table, Discounts & Calculation
Fully understand the German SF class system and optimize your discounts. With current table and comparison calculator for 2026.
Key Takeaways
- 1The SF class significantly determines your car insurance premium – up to 80% discount is possible.
- 2A claim-free year improves your class by one level, an accident leads to downgrading.
- 3SF classes can be transferred to family members under certain conditions.
- 4Liability and comprehensive have separate SF classes – partial coverage has none.
1. SF Class Basics
The no-claims bonus class system (Schadenfreiheitsklassen) is the central element of premium calculation in German car insurance. The longer you drive without accidents, the higher you rise in the SF class and the less you pay for your insurance.
Higher SF Class = More Discount
With each claim-free year, you advance one class. At SF 35, you only pay about 20-25% of the base premium.
Accident = Downgrading
After an at-fault accident, you are downgraded, often by several classes. This significantly increases your premium.
Where are SF Classes Tracked?
2. SF Class Table 2026
The following table shows typical premium rates based on no-claims bonus class. The exact percentages may vary by insurer.
Complete SF Class Table
| SF Class | Claim-Free Years | Premium Rate | Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| M (Malus) | After accident | 200-280% | Surcharge |
| SF 0 | 0 years | 100-230% | 0% |
| SF ½ | New driver | 100-200% | 0-15% |
| SF 1 | 1 year | 85-100% | 0-15% |
| SF 2 | 2 years | 70-85% | 15-30% |
| SF 3 | 3 years | 55-70% | 30-45% |
| SF 5 | 5 years | 45-55% | 45-55% |
| SF 10 | 10 years | 35-45% | 55-65% |
| SF 20 | 20 years | 28-35% | 65-72% |
| SF 35+ | 35+ years | 20-25% | 75-80% |
Note on Percentages
The stated values are approximate. Each insurer has its own premium table. Therefore, comparing different providers is especially worthwhile to find the best rate for your SF class.
3. Downgrading After an Accident
An at-fault accident leads to downgrading to a lower SF class. The downgrade can vary significantly between insurers.
Typical Downgrade Table
| Current SF Class | After 1st Claim | After 2nd Claim |
|---|---|---|
| SF 35 | → SF 14 - SF 18 | → SF 4 - SF 7 |
| SF 25 | → SF 10 - SF 13 | → SF 3 - SF 5 |
| SF 15 | → SF 6 - SF 8 | → SF 1 - SF 3 |
| SF 10 | → SF 4 - SF 5 | → SF 1 - SF 2 |
| SF 5 | → SF 1 - SF 2 | → SF 0 - SF ½ |
Tip: Pay for Damage Yourself?
For smaller damages, it may be cheaper to pay for the repair yourself rather than filing an insurance claim. Calculate the additional costs from the downgrade over several years and compare with the damage amount.
4. Transferring SF Classes
Under certain conditions, you can transfer your SF class to family members. This is especially interesting for new drivers.
Transfer Possible
- •From parents to children
- •Between spouses
- •From grandparents to grandchildren
- •In case of inheritance
Limitations
- •Maximum years = years with license
- •Only possible once
- •Not all insurers accept transfers
- •Original loses their SF class
Transfer Example
A parent with SF 20 can transfer a maximum of SF 5 to their child who has had their license for 5 years. The child then starts with SF 5 instead of SF 0 or SF ½ – a significant savings on insurance premiums.
5. Tips for New Drivers
1. Start as Second Driver
First, have yourself registered as a second driver with your parents. This way, you gain driving experience and can later start with SF ½ instead of SF 0.
2. Accompanied Driving (BF17)
Those who started with "Accompanied Driving from 17" can start with better conditions at many insurers, as statistically fewer accidents occur.
3. Have SF Class Transferred
Check if parents or grandparents can transfer SF years to you. A maximum of as many years can be transferred as you have held your license.
4. Use Telematics Rates
With telematics rates, your driving behavior is recorded via app or OBD plug. Careful drivers can earn additional discounts.
5. Compare Insurance
Rates for new drivers vary significantly between insurers. A comparison can save several hundred euros per year.
6. Bonus Protection (Rabattschutz)
Bonus protection is an add-on option that prevents you from being downgraded after the first claim in an insurance year.
Advantages
- No downgrading for first claim
- Especially useful for high SF classes
- Protection from higher costs over years
Disadvantages
- Additional costs (approx. €15-30/year)
- Often only for first claim per year
- Not always transferred when switching
7. Car Insurance Comparison Calculator
Use our comparison calculator to find the cheapest car insurance for your SF class. The comparison is free and non-binding.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
What is a no-claims bonus class (SF-Klasse)?
How does downgrading after an accident work?
Can I transfer my SF class to another person?
How do I start as a new driver?
Are there differences in SF classes between liability and comprehensive insurance?
What is the maximum discount at SF 35?
What happens to my SF class when I switch insurers?
Is no-claims bonus protection (Rabattschutz) worth it?
Conclusion: Optimize Your SF Classes
The no-claims bonus class is the most important lever for affordable car insurance premiums. Drive carefully, check transfer options, and regularly compare rates from different providers.
New Drivers
Use SF transfer and telematics
Experienced Drivers
Check bonus protection, compare annually
After Accident
Calculate self-payment vs. downgrade
Legal Notice
The information on this page is for general information purposes only. The stated SF classes and premium rates are approximate values and may vary significantly by insurer. For binding information, please contact your insurer directly. Last updated: January 2026.