Required for every car import
What is an RDW inspection and when do you need one?
If you import a car from abroad into the Netherlands, the vehicle must be approved by the RDW before it is allowed on public roads. This applies to vehicles from both EU countries and countries outside the European Union.
For imports within Europe, this is usually not a technical inspection. For imports from outside Europe, a technical inspection is always required. However, this cannot always be carried out at a regular inspection station. Each situation must be assessed individually to determine the available options.
An RDW inspection for imports from outside Europe can be carried out at a regular inspection station in the following situations:
- The vehicle is older than 1998
- The vehicle has a European type approval number, but a registration certificate from outside Europe
- The vehicle is imported as part of a relocation/moving process
Does your situation match one of the points above? Then we will take care of the complete RDW registration process and guide you through the inspection.
If the vehicle is imported from outside Europe and is newer, we handle the process through an alternative route via Germany.
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A clear process from import to licence plate
How does the RDW inspection work for an imported car?
Just like when importing a car from Belgium or Germany, the RDW inspection process follows a fixed number of steps:
RDW inspection booking
Your vehicle is registered for inspection at an official RDW testing station. We handle the scheduling and ensure all required information is submitted correctly.Technical inspection
During the inspection, the RDW checks whether the vehicle meets Dutch technical standards covering lighting, brakes, emissions and vehicle identification.BPM tax declaration
Once the vehicle passes the RDW inspection, we handle the BPM declaration. We ensure the calculation is accurate so you don't pay more tax than necessary.Licence plate registration
After the inspection and BPM declaration are completed, your car is registered in the Dutch vehicle register and your Dutch licence plate is issued.Expert guidance every step of the way
Why choose Marlog Europe?
- 20+ years of experience in vehicle importsIn-depth knowledge of RDW procedures, BPM regulations, customs requirements and European vehicle standards.
- Specialist in RDW inspections for imported vehiclesWe know exactly which documents are required, where complications tend to arise and how to resolve them efficiently.
- Complete peace of mind with one point of contactFrom document checks and inspection booking to BPM declaration and licence plate registration we handle the entire process.
We make sure your imported car is brought into the Netherlands correctly technically, administratively and fiscally. No surprises along the way.
Avoid rejections and unnecessary delays
What to check before your RDW inspection
An RDW inspection runs most smoothly when the preparation is solid. In practice, we regularly see cars rejected or delayed due to missing documents or easily avoidable technical issues. With the right preparation, you can prevent this entirely.
What to check in advance:
- Is the original foreign registration certificate complete and present?
- Is a valid COC certificate available?
- Have any modifications been made after manufacture such as a towbar or LPG installation?
- Does the VIN on the vehicle match the documents?
- Is the mileage verifiable through service records?
- Is it clear whether the vehicle has ever been registered as damaged or a total loss?
Not sure whether your car is ready for inspection? We carry out a document check in advance and flag any potential issues early. That way, you go into the inspection fully prepared and avoid unnecessary costs or delays.
Speak to an import adviserCars from across Europe and beyond
Which imported cars do we handle?
We manage the RDW inspection process for a wide range of imported vehicles. Whether it is a used car from an EU country or a vehicle imported from outside Europe — we know the requirements and take care of the entire inspection process from A to Z.
Countries for which we regularly arrange RDW inspections:
- Belgium
- Germany
- France
- Spain
- United States and Canada
- Japan
Is your country of origin not listed here? Feel free to contact us. We can help and guide you through the correct import process for any vehicle import.
All vehicle types
Which vehicles can we handle?
We manage the RDW inspection for virtually all types of imported vehicles, including:
- Passenger cars
- Youngtimers and classic cars
- Electric vehicles
- SUVs and off-road vehicles
- Vans and light commercial vehicles
- Motorcycles
- Camper vans and motorhomes
Whether it is a recent model or a vehicle with a complex import history — we ensure proper preparation and guidance throughout the RDW inspection. So your vehicle gets on Dutch plates without unnecessary delays.
Key considerations for the RDW inspection
What you need to know
The RDW inspection for an imported car is not always a straightforward procedure. Depending on the country of origin, the age of the vehicle and the documentation available, requirements and timelines can vary significantly. Knowing what to expect in advance makes a real difference.
These variations mean that RDW inspections for imported vehicles require specialist knowledge. We make sure your vehicle is handled correctly, technically, fiscally and administratively, so the process runs smoothly and without surprises.
COC certificate
The Certificate of Conformity confirms that your vehicle meets European type-approval requirements. When a valid COC is available, the RDW inspection is often more straightforward. Without one, additional checks are required and the process will take longer.
Vehicles from outside the EU
Cars originating from countries outside the European Union are subject to stricter requirements. This may include additional emissions standards, modifications to lighting or bumpers, and extra documentation from the export country. We are familiar with the specific requirements per country of origin and prepare your vehicle accordingly.
Technical modifications
Has the vehicle been modified after manufacture, such as an LPG installation, adapted lighting or a raised load floor? These modifications must be demonstrably documented at the time of inspection. Without the proper paperwork, the inspection may be postponed or refused.
BPM and taxes
In addition to the RDW inspection, imported cars in the Netherlands are subject to BPM, a motor vehicle tax. The amount depends on the vehicle’s CO₂ emissions and current market value. An accurate BPM declaration prevents you from overpaying. We handle the calculation and submission as part of our full import service.
Ready to get your imported car inspected?
Want to know what the RDW inspection involves for your vehicle, or how we can help? Request a free quote or get in touch with us directly.
Mark
Import advisor
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about RDW inspections for imported cars
Not always. If your car comes from an EU country and a valid COC certificate is available, a full RDW inspection is often not required. However, if the COC is missing or the car originates from outside the EU, an inspection is mandatory before the vehicle can be registered in the Netherlands.
The timeline depends on the availability of documents and the condition of the vehicle. In most cases, the inspection can be scheduled within one to two weeks. If additional checks or modifications are required, the process may take longer.
The RDW charges fixed inspection fees that vary depending on the vehicle type and the nature of the inspection. Additional costs apply for our guidance, BPM declaration and licence plate registration. Request a quote for a full cost overview tailored to your situation.
If the vehicle does not pass, you will receive a report outlining the issues found. These must be resolved before the vehicle can be resubmitted for inspection. We advise you on the necessary steps and connect you with an approved specialist where needed.
Yes. We take care of the full BPM declaration as part of our import service. We calculate the amount owed based on the current assessed value of your vehicle, so you do not pay more than necessary.
Yes, we have experience importing vehicles from non-EU countries. This involves additional requirements around documentation, technical modifications and customs formalities. Get in touch to discuss your specific situation.