Mopeds must be scrapped only by RDW-certified companies from January 1, 2026
From January 1, 2026, mopeds, scooters, and similar vehicles in the Netherlands must be scrapped exclusively by RDW-certified dismantling companies. Self-scrapping will no longer be allowed to ensure proper recycling and deregistration.
New Dutch Rule: Mopeds Must Be Scrapped Only by RDW-Certified Companies from 2026
Starting January 1, 2026, owners of mopeds, scooters, snorfietsen, speed pedelecs, and special mopeds in the Netherlands must have their vehicles scrapped exclusively by RDW-certified dismantling companies. This new regulation aims to improve environmental sustainability by promoting recycling and proper deregistration.
Why Is This New Scrapping Rule Important?
- Prevent waste: Many parts of scrapped mopeds currently end up in household waste or at recycling centers, which wastes valuable materials.
- Promote recycling: Certified dismantlers ensure parts and materials are reused or recycled correctly.
- Ensure deregistration: Proper scrapping guarantees the vehicle is removed from the RDW registry, stopping insurance and tax obligations.
What Changed on January 1, 2026?
| Before 2026 | After January 1, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Owners could dismantle mopeds themselves | Only RDW-certified dismantling companies can scrap mopeds |
| Vehicle parts often discarded improperly | Parts are recycled or reused properly |
| Vehicle registration might remain active | Owners receive a deregistration certificate (vrijwaringsbewijs) |
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
- Mopeds (brommers)
- Scooters
- Snorfietsen
- Speed pedelecs
- Special mopeds (bijzondere bromfietsen)
How to Scrap Your Moped Correctly
Step 1: Find an RDW-Certified Dismantling Company
- Use the RDW locatiewijzer (location finder) to locate certified companies.
- Choose a company affiliated with Scooter Recycling Nederland (SRN) for free scrapping in most cases.
- Other companies may charge fees.
Step 2: Prepare Your Vehicle
- Bring the complete vehicle: motor, frame, and wheels must be present.
- Incomplete vehicles may incur additional processing fees.
Step 3: Bring Required Documents
- Registration certificate (kentekenbewijs)
- Transfer code (tenaamstellingscode)
Step 4: Hand Over Your Vehicle
- The dismantling company will scrap the vehicle.
- You will receive a deregistration certificate (vrijwaringsbewijs).
- Use this certificate to cancel your insurance and stop tax obligations.
What If You Already Scrapped Your Moped Yourself?
- If you dismantled your vehicle before January 1, 2026, you must regularize the situation.
- Contact an RDW-certified dismantling company to report and deregister your vehicle properly.
- This prevents ongoing insurance and tax liabilities.
Why Self-Scrapping Is No Longer Allowed
- Self-scrapping often leaves vehicles registered, causing legal and financial issues.
- It results in parts being discarded improperly, harming the environment.
- Certified dismantlers follow strict procedures to maximize reuse and recycling.
Impact on Expats and International Residents
- Expats owning mopeds must comply with this new rule to avoid fines and ongoing fees.
- Ensure you have all documents ready when scrapping your vehicle.
- Use RDW resources or DriveDutch for guidance on finding certified dismantlers and understanding vehicle regulations.
Summary Checklist: Scrapping Mopeds from 2026
[ ] Use only RDW-certified dismantling companies. [ ] Bring complete vehicle (motor, frame, wheels). [ ] Bring registration certificate and transfer code. [ ] Receive deregistration certificate after scrapping. [ ] Cancel insurance and tax after deregistration. [ ] Regularize if you self-scrapped before 2026.
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About the Author
Drive Dutch
Drive Dutch is a website for expats trying to take their drivers license in the Netherlands.