Importing a Motor Vehicle

There are several steps you must take to import a motor vehicle or motorcycle that you purchased outside the Netherlands.

1. In some cases, you must make a declaration for import duty and/or VAT and pay the amount owed
2. If possible, you should request an exemption from BPM (belasting van personenauto’s en motorrijwielen – private motor vehicle and motorcycle tax) if your vehicle is being imported as part of your household goods.
3. Your vehicle must pass inspection by the RDW (Dutch Motor Vehicle Authority)
4. You must make a declaration for BPM at the Dutch Customs authorities (douane) or the Tax Service (belastingdienst) and pay the amount owed (unless you have received an exemption)
5. You should have your car inspected and obtain an AP’ certificate (APK – Algemene Periodieke Keuring, generally known as MOT in English). You can request APK inspection at most mechanic garages in the Netherlands.

Once you have completed the above stages you will receive a registration certificate. You must then:

6. Obtain Dutch license plates produced by an authorized manufacturer.