What Obligations Come with Foreign License Plates in the Netherlands?

Just arrived in the Netherlands with your own car? That’s great—but before you hit the Dutch roads full-time, there are some important rules to know about driving a car with foreign license plates. 🚗🇳🇱

When Can You Drive with Foreign Plates?

If you’re a newcomer, good news: you can drive a car with foreign plates temporarily. How long depends on your specific situation.

Here are a few common examples:

Permanent residence: You’re planning to settle here? Then your car must be registered within six months of arrival.
Working in the Netherlands: You live abroad but work here? You can use your foreign-plated vehicle for up to three months.
Students: Fully enrolled in a Dutch institution? You can continue using your car with foreign plates for the duration of your studies.

Always keep documents proving your situation (like work contracts or university enrollment letters), in case you’re asked.

How to Register Your Foreign Car in the Netherlands

Thinking of staying longer? Then it’s time to register your car locally. Here's what the process looks like:

1. Book an Appointment with RDW 🏢

The Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer (RDW) is the Dutch road authority responsible for all vehicle registrations. Visit their website and schedule an inspection appointment.

2. Technical Inspection (APK) 🔧

Your car must pass a technical inspection (similar to an MOT or TÜV). It checks safety and emissions to ensure your car meets Dutch standards.

3. Get Car Insurance 🛡️

Dutch law requires WA (liability) insurance at a minimum. Once your car passes inspection, get it insured before hitting the road.

4. Pay Taxes and Fees 💶

You'll need to pay:

Road tax (motorrijtuigenbelasting)
BPM (a one-time tax on car registration)
Administrative fees for RDW processing

👉 You can check the current fee schedule and BPM calculator on the official government site.

What If You Don’t Register on Time?

Let’s put it simply: don’t try to cheat the system.

The Netherlands uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras—installed in police cars, fuel stations, parking lots, and roads—to scan and check if your car is properly registered.

Consequences of Skipping Registration:

Hefty fines
Risk of car confiscation
Invalid insurance (which can be a nightmare if you're in an accident)

So even if you avoid police checkpoints, the cameras won't miss you.

Why Registering Your Car Actually Helps You

Yes, it comes with costs and some paperwork—but registering your car means:

You're legally protected by Dutch insurance
You avoid surprise fines or losing your car
You can drive stress-free knowing you’ve followed the rules

When in doubt, ask a professional:

RDW staff can help with the technical side
Insurance agents and tax advisors can help with planning

Final Thoughts

Bringing your car to the Netherlands is convenient—but don’t overlook the legal side of things. Whether you’re a student, worker, or planning to stay long-term, make sure to understand your obligations and register when required.

Need more help? Head over to rdw.nl for everything you need to know.