Importing a Car into the Netherlands: What Expats Need to Know
If you're planning to move to the Netherlands and want to bring your car with you, there are several steps you’ll need to follow to stay road-legal. Here's a complete guide to help you through the import process.
Step 1: Register Your Vehicle with the RDW
All imported vehicles must be inspected and registered with the RDW (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer), the Dutch road authority. This is typically done at an RDW inspection station, where the car's technical specifications and documents will be reviewed.
Step 2: Vehicle Inspection and Approval
The RDW will inspect your car to ensure it meets Dutch safety and environmental standards. This includes emissions, lighting, and overall roadworthiness. If approved, your car can be officially registered in the Netherlands.
Step 3: Pay BPM Tax
You will likely need to pay BPM (Belasting van Personenauto’s en Motorrijwielen), a tax based on the CO₂ emissions of your vehicle. The higher the emissions, the more tax you'll pay. There are online BPM calculators available, or you can request a tax-free exemption if you meet the criteria (e.g. moving to the Netherlands and bringing your car with you).
Step 4: Get Dutch Number Plates
Once registered and BPM is paid (or waived), the RDW will issue you Dutch license plates. You’ll also receive a registration card and vehicle certificate.
Step 5: Obtain Insurance
Before you drive, make sure to take out Dutch car insurance. At minimum, a third-party liability policy is required. You can use your foreign no-claim statement to negotiate better rates with insurers in the Netherlands.
Exemptions for New Residents
New residents who move to the Netherlands may qualify for a BPM exemption when importing a car for personal use. To be eligible:
- You must have lived outside the Netherlands for at least 12 months before moving.
- You must have owned and used the vehicle abroad for at least 6 months.
- You must bring the vehicle to the Netherlands within 12 months of registering here.
EU vs. Non-EU Vehicle Imports
If your car is from an EU country, the process is simpler as it likely already complies with EU standards. For non-EU cars, the RDW might require more detailed documentation and testing to ensure compliance.
Final Tips
- Keep all original documentation handy (purchase invoice, foreign registration, proof of residency).
- Use a translator for non-English or non-Dutch documents.
- Check if your car qualifies for classic car tax rates (for vehicles over 40 years old).
Importing a car might seem daunting, but with proper preparation, it's manageable and could even save you money in the long run.