Dutch License Plate Registration

At SCL Rotterdam, we understand that importing a vehicle into the Netherlands can be a complex process. Our specialised workshop is ready to handle the entire registration process, ensuring that your imported vehicles are swiftly and smoothly registered with Dutch licence plates. With nearly 20 years of experience and in-depth knowledge of regulations, we make sure your vehicle meets all Dutch requirements without hassle. Thanks to our one-stop-shop service, we guide you from start to finish — from technical inspection and conversion to European standards to the official registration.

Our Services

Technical inspection and conversion to European standards: Before a vehicle can receive Dutch registration, it must comply with all technical and legal requirements. Our experts carry out a thorough technical inspection in our in-house workshop to ensure your vehicle meets all Dutch standards. Especially for non-European vehicles, such as American imports, modifications are often necessary — such as the installation of rear fog lights, side indicators, or other components required for EU type approval. Vehicles without EU type approval must first undergo an individual type approval inspection. Our workshop specialists can handle the entire conversion process.
RDW inspection: We provide full support for the official RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) inspection. This includes collecting and preparing all required documentation and physically presenting the vehicle at an RDW testing facility when necessary. In many cases, we can perform the inspection directly in our own RDW-certified workshop.
Emission and noise testing: If applicable, we also perform emission and noise measurements to ensure your vehicle complies with Dutch environmental standards.
Licence plate registration: After RDW approval, we handle the complete registration process so that your vehicle receives Dutch licence plates and is ready for the road.

Requirements for Dutch registration

To register a foreign vehicle in the Netherlands, the following conditions must be met:

The vehicle must be officially imported into the EU customs union (all import duties and VAT must be paid).
The vehicle must successfully pass the RDW inspection.
Any applicable BPM (vehicle tax) must be paid.

How long does the process take?

The duration depends on the type of vehicle and the situation:

For non-EU vehicles (without EU type approval), the minimum lead time is around 8 weeks due to additional inspections and administrative procedures.
For EU vehicles with valid EU type approval, the process usually takes 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the response times of authorities such as the RDW and the Dutch Tax Administration.

Why choose SCL Rotterdam?

Specialist in non-European imports: Nearly 20 years of experience importing vehicles from Dubai, the USA, Canada and Japan.
One-stop-shop service: We handle everything — from purchase assistance, transport, technical inspection, and conversion to RDW inspection and registration.
Full inspection and registration: We ensure your vehicle meets all European and Dutch requirements and manage the entire process from inspection to registration.
Own RDW-certified workshop: Most inspections can be performed directly at our in-house facility.
Personal service by car enthusiasts: Our passion for cars translates into attention to detail and a transparent process.
Complete peace of mind from A to Z: No stress about paperwork or technical modifications — we take care of everything.

Costs for Dutch licence plate registration

The costs depend on the type of vehicle, the required modifications, inspections and BPM (vehicle tax) processing. Request a tailored quotation to know exactly what to expect.

Contact and advice

Do you want to register your car with Dutch licence plates without the hassle? Contact our specialists for free advice and personal guidance. We ensure a fast, safe and transparent process in our workshop, so you can soon drive on Dutch roads with peace of mind.

Our service is part of our complete workshop offering, which also includes conversion to European standards.
In addition, we can support you with services such as German KFZ registrations or the installation of accessories, ensuring every aspect of your imported vehicle is professionally managed. For questions about taxes or the formal registration process, please visit our page about EU registration and BPM.

Senior Automotive Coordinator

Questions? Please ask Annemarie

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Frequently Asked Questions

Services Process

Can I register my car at home?

No, the registration process requires a physical vehicle inspection and cannot be carried out at home.

Do I need a temporary registration plate?

A temporary registration is only needed to drive to an RDW inspection station. When you handle the registration through SCL, we take care of the entire process. In most cases, the car does not even need to go to the RDW, as we are certified ourselves. If a visit to the RDW is required, we will arrange transport by trailer or use insured garage plates.

Which vehicles are eligible for registration?

Vehicles first registered before 1 January 1998 are exempt from EU type approval and only need to meet APK (roadworthiness) requirements.

Vehicles from 1 January 1998 onwards must have (individual) EU type approval, unless they are part of a relocation shipment.

Can SCL also assist with German or US registrations?

Yes, through our specialised services we can also assist with German KFZ registrations and other international registration procedures. Read more about German KFZ registrations.

What are the most common mistakes?

Many importers encounter difficulties with vehicles that lack EU type approval, such as cars from the US, Canada or the Middle East. Incomplete documentation and missing technical modifications often lead to rejections and delays. Our advice: contact us early to save stress, costs and time.

Which documents are required for registration?

Foreign registration certificate
Proof of purchase
Owner’s driver’s license
Customs document (for non-EU imports)