Buying a Used Car in NL: The Handover and Registration Checklist

You have inspected the car, agreed a price, and are ready to buy. The final hour still matters: ownership, insurance, money, keys, and documents must change hands in the right order. Use this checklist to complete a Dutch used-car purchase without leaving an expensive loose end.

Before Handover Day

Do not let the excitement of collecting the car replace the final checks. Ask the seller for the registration number and VIN in advance, then verify the vehicle through the RDW registration check. Confirm that the car can be transferred, its APK is valid, the mileage result is plausible, and the VIN on the vehicle matches the documents.

Agree in writing what is included in the sale: price, mileage, known defects, warranty, delivery condition, number of keys, accessories, and any work the seller promised to complete. If your offer depends on finance or an independent inspection, write that condition into the agreement before paying a deposit.

Can the Car Be Registered in Your Name?

For a personal registration, the buyer must normally be at least 18 and registered in the Dutch Personal Records Database (BRP) with a residential or correspondence address in the Netherlands. The seller needs a valid registration card plus the complete registration code, or the required original paper registration documents for an older certificate.

An online transfer requires DigiD with identity verification. At a registration counter or an RDW-approved vehicle company, a valid Dutch driving licence is required from 2026. If you do not have one, you can still use the online service when eligible or visit an RDW service desk or inspection station with an accepted passport or identity document. Check your route before arranging an evening or weekend handover.

The Safe Order on Handover Day

1. Inspect the same car again. Compare the registration number and VIN, check that the agreed work was completed, and record the mileage and condition.
2. Sign the final purchase agreement. Both parties should keep a copy. Do not accept blank sections or verbal promises that should be written down.
3. Transfer the registration. Complete it online, at an authorised company, or at an appropriate RDW location. Do not rely on a promise that somebody will arrange it later.
4. Confirm the successful transfer. The buyer receives a registration report; the seller receives the certificate of indemnification (vrijwaringsbewijs) proving the vehicle is no longer registered to them.
5. Complete payment through a traceable method. Check transfer limits with your bank beforehand. Avoid carrying a large amount of cash, and make sure the payment reference identifies the car.
6. Activate or confirm insurance. Do this before driving onto a public road.
7. Collect everything. Take all keys, service records, invoices, manuals, security codes, charging cables, wheel-lock key, accessories, and any written warranty.

Understand the Two Important Codes

The registration code (tenaamstellingscode) has nine digits and is needed when the car is later sold, suspended, exported, or scrapped. After transfer, the registration report contains the first part. The registration card and the second part are sent separately. Combine them and store the full code securely at home, not in the car.

The reporting code (meldcode) is different. It consists of the last four digits of the VIN and is commonly requested by insurers. Mixing up these two codes is an easy mistake when the terminology is unfamiliar.

What Happens Immediately After Transfer?

Once the registration is in your name, you are responsible for WA insurance, a valid APK where required, and motor vehicle tax (MRB). Registration also acts as the MRB declaration, so the Tax and Customs Administration will contact you automatically.

The RDW sends the new registration card and the remaining part of the registration code to your Dutch address. You may drive in the Netherlands immediately after a successful transfer even while waiting for the card, but after 14 days you must carry it. If you drive abroad, you must have the registration certificate with you.

Your Drive-Away Check

• The RDW transfer is confirmed and the car appears in My RDW.
• Your insurance confirms cover from the exact handover date and time.
• You have the signed contract, payment evidence, and registration report.
• The seller has received the certificate of indemnification.
• The APK is valid and any advisory items are understood.
• You have every promised key, document, cable, and accessory.
• The dashboard has no new warning lights and the fuel or charge level is sufficient.

Official Information

• RDW: transfer a registration number to a person
• RDW: tips for buying a vehicle
• RDW: registration certificates and codes

Requirements and fees can change. Check the current RDW instructions for your situation before the handover.