Conversion to European Standards

An imported car or motorcycle from the United States, Canada, Japan or other non-European countries often does not meet the strict European regulations. To register your vehicle with Dutch licence plates, it must have European type approval. This usually requires certain technical modifications to comply with European standards and legislation.

These modifications are typically minor but essential adjustments. Common examples include lighting: indicators, rear fog lights, headlight alignment and side markers may need to be changed depending on the vehicle’s model and country of origin.

What is European type approval?

European type approval means that a vehicle meets all technical and safety standards applicable within the European Union. Without this approval, an imported car cannot be registered in the Netherlands. This primarily applies to vehicles without EU type approval, such as many models from the US, Canada, Japan or the Middle East.

Common modifications for European type approval

• Headlights: American headlights are usually aimed higher and straight ahead. In Europe, they must shine slightly downwards and to the right to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic and to illuminate the roadside.
• Rear fog light: European regulations require a rear fog light in a specific position, usually in the centre or to the left of it, which often differs from the vehicle’s original setup.
• Indicators: In the US, rear indicators are sometimes red, which is acceptable in the Netherlands but not in all European countries — this may vary depending on the registration location.
• Side markers: US models often feature side marker lights that are not always permitted in Europe and must be removed or modified.
• Parking lights: In the US, these are often orange, whereas in the Netherlands and most EU countries they must be white.

These are just examples — the required modifications differ per make and model. Our experienced technicians at SCL Rotterdam have converted nearly all brands and types and know exactly what to look for. They always find a neat and durable solution.

Why choose conversion at SCL Rotterdam?

Many people have these modifications carried out at official brand dealers, but experience shows that such dealers often lack expertise with imported vehicles that do not have EU type approval. They are usually only familiar with EU-delivered models.

SCL Rotterdam has a modern, fully equipped workshop and a team of experts with nearly 20 years of experience in importing and converting vehicles from Dubai, the US, Canada and Japan. We perform all required modifications at competitive rates and with efficiency — completing the conversion quickly and professionally.

If your vehicle shipment is also handled by SCL, we can perform the conversion immediately after customs clearance, saving you both time and money. This allows us to offer a complete one-stop-shop service — from purchase assistance and transport to inspection, conversion and registration.

Vehicle not shipped via SCL but still need conversion or registration?

No problem! Even if your car was not shipped with us, we offer conversion to European standards as a standalone service. This can easily be combined with a KFZ registration or Dutch licence plate application. Curious about how the Dutch registration process works? Visit our detailed guidance page for full information.

How do I know if my vehicle is suitable for conversion?

Unsure whether your vehicle can be adapted to European standards? Contact our specialists — often, based on a few photos and details, we can already provide a reliable assessment and advise you on the best approach.

How long does the conversion take?

If all required parts are in stock, we can often complete the conversion within one working day. Naturally, we aim to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible, so you can enjoy your imported car on Dutch plates quickly.

Which documents are required for conversion and approval?

• The original registration certificate from the country of origin
• Proof of customs import (for non-EU imports)
• A copy of the new owner’s driving licence (if no Dutch licence, RDW identification may be required)

Our expertise and added value

• Specialist in non-European imports: Nearly 20 years of experience with car imports from Dubai, the US, Canada and Japan.
• One-stop-shop: From purchase assistance to home delivery – including transport, inspection, conversion and registration.
• Full inspection and registration: We ensure your vehicle complies with all European and Dutch standards and coordinate with authorities such as the RDW and TÜV.
• Team of car enthusiasts: Our passion translates into personal service and attention to detail.
• Hassle-free import process from A to Z: We handle everything quickly, safely and transparently.

Want to know more about the inspection process or Dutch registration? Visit our pages about the workshop. For information about German registrations or customs procedures, see our pages on German KFZ registrationand Dutch registration and BPM.

Contact us for advice, a quotation or more information. We’ll be happy to provide a personal and tailored plan for your imported vehicle.