Complete guide to buying a car in the Netherlands for expats: 2026 edition
Navigate BPM tax, RDW registration, insurance, and APK inspections with confidence
Buying a car in the Netherlands as an expat is significantly more complex than in many other countries. Between navigating the BPM tax system, RDW registration requirements, mandatory insurance compliance, and APK inspections, the process involves multiple government agencies and strict regulations. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step with current 2026 data and verified information.
Key market statistics (2026):
- Electric vehicle market share in Netherlands: approximately 30-35% of new registrations
- Average age of imported used cars: 5-8 years
- New car price markup vs. EU average: 15-25% higher due to BPM taxes
- Used car market: 70-80% of vehicle sales occur in used car market
Step 1: Understand your residential status and BPM eligibility
Before purchasing any vehicle, you must establish whether you're eligible for BPM exemptions or reductions based on your immigration status.
Who pays BPM (Belasting Personenauto's en Motorrijwielen)?
You must pay BPM if:
- You are registered in the Personal Records Database (Basisregistratie Personen, BRP) as a resident of the Netherlands
- You purchase a new or used car and register it in your name in the Netherlands
- You import a vehicle from abroad and register it in the Netherlands
- The vehicle was not previously registered with a Dutch license plate
You may qualify for exemptions or reductions if:
- You purchase certain zero-emission vehicles (fully electric or hydrogen fuel cell cars) with 2026 rates apply
- You hold a diplomatic passport or work for an international organization
- You purchase a vehicle specifically for business use (certain conditions apply)
2026 tax rates for different vehicle types
The Dutch government adjusts BPM rates annually based on CO2 emissions. For 2026, the following changes take effect:
Tariff changes January 1, 2026:
- • Tax bracket threshold: decreased by 1,55%
- • BPM tariffs: increased by 1,57%
- • Motor vehicle tax discount for zero-emission cars: 30% (reduced from 75% in 2025)
Electric and zero-emission vehicles (2026)
- • BPM fixed base rate: approximately €667
- • Motor vehicle (road tax) discount: 30% (valid through 2028)
- • Full zero-emission vehicles pay only the fixed base rate with no CO2-based variable tax
- • This represents significant savings compared to petrol/diesel vehicles
Plug-in hybrid vehicles (2026)
- • BPM: Includes both fixed base rate and CO2-based variable rate
- • Motor vehicle (road) tax: 75% of standard rate (increasing to 100% from 2027)
- • Caution: Plug-in hybrids now face tighter CO2 calculations
- • Annual cost difference: typically €500-1.200 more expensive than fully electric vehicles
Diesel vehicles (2026)
- • BPM: Standard calculation based on CO2 emissions
- • Motor vehicle tax surcharge: 15% additional "particulate matter surcharge" (soot tax)
- • Impact: Makes diesel vehicles approximately 25-30% more expensive to own than equivalent petrol vehicles
- • Recommendation: Avoid diesel unless driving 25.000+ km annually
Petrol vehicles (2026)
- • BPM: Standard calculation based on CO2 emissions
- • Motor vehicle tax: Standard rate based on vehicle weight and type
- • Annual cost: €150-400 depending on vehicle size and emissions
Step 2: Where to buy your car in the Netherlands
Expats have four main purchasing options, each with distinct advantages and risks.
Option 1: Authorized dealerships (most secure)
✓ Advantages
- • Full warranty protection (typically 2-3 years)
- • Legal certainty (dealership responsible for compliance)
- • Professional financing options available
- • Vehicle history verified and inspected
- • Can request specific vehicle configurations
✗ Disadvantages
- • Highest prices in the market (typically 10-15% premium over private sales)
- • Limited used car selection for specific models
- • Less negotiation flexibility
Cost range (2026)
- • New Volkswagen Golf: €28.000-35.000
- • Used VW Golf (3-5 years old): €16.000-22.000
- • New electric Volkswagen ID.4: €42.000-52.000 (before deductions)
Recommended dealerships for expats: Volkswagen Group dealers (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Porsche), BMW/Mini dealers, Toyota/Lexus dealers, Hyundai/Kia dealers. Most major dealerships have English-speaking staff.
Option 2: Private sellers (higher risk, cost savings)
✓ Advantages
- • Lowest purchase prices (typically 15-25% below dealership prices)
- • Wider selection and inventory
- • Potential to negotiate
- • Direct communication about vehicle history
✗ Disadvantages
- • No warranty unless specifically included in contract
- • Risk of mechanical problems not disclosed
- • No legal recourse if documentation is falsified
- • You are responsible for all post-purchase issues
- • Higher risk of overpaying if unfamiliar with Dutch car market
Safety precautions for private sales
- • Always request the full vehicle registration certificate (kenteken) and verify at RDW.nl
- • Have an independent mechanic (€80-150) inspect the vehicle before purchase
- • Request service history documentation
- • Verify no outstanding fines or traffic violations attached to the vehicle
- • Meet in public location with someone who speaks Dutch fluently
- • Never pay until all documentation is transferred
Where to find private sellers
- • Marktplaats.nl (largest online marketplace, similar to eBay)
- • Autoscout24.nl
- • Cars.com (international database)
- • Local Facebook expat groups (less common)
Red flags to avoid
- • Seller pressures for immediate decision
- • Vehicle price significantly below market value
- • Unclear or missing maintenance records
- • Seller unwilling to provide vehicle documentation
- • Vehicle registered to multiple owners in short timeframe
Option 3: Import from abroad (specialized route)
When to consider
- • You're bringing a vehicle you already own from your home country
- • You want a specific model not readily available in Netherlands
- • Total cost (import + taxes) is still lower than local purchase
Important process
- • Vehicle must pass Dutch safety and emissions standards
- • BPM calculation applies based on import value and CO2 emissions
- • One-day registration available for transport to RDW inspection facility
- • Timeline: 4-8 weeks total from decision to registration
Cost factors
- • Professional import service: €800-2.000
- • RDW inspection: €150-350
- • BPM tax: 21% of import value (for most vehicles)
- • Shipping from EU country: €300-800
Option 4: Lease vs. purchase decision
When leasing makes sense for expats
- • Short-term stay (2-4 years) in Netherlands
- • Want newest technology and warranty coverage
- • Prefer predictable monthly costs
- • Don't drive frequently (15.000 km/year or less)
- • May relocate during lease term
When purchasing is better
- • Long-term stay (5+ years) planned
- • High annual mileage (20.000+ km)
- • Want vehicle ownership flexibility
- • Plan to keep vehicle after leaving Netherlands
- • Want to avoid strict mileage restrictions
2026 lease cost comparison
- • VW Golf lease: €350-450/month (24-36 months)
- • VW ID.4 electric lease: €380-520/month (includes charging)
- • Purchase same models: €22.000-32.000 one-time cost
Step 3: Understanding and calculating BPM tax
BPM is the single largest cost factor when purchasing a vehicle in the Netherlands. For new vehicles, BPM often represents 20-35% of the vehicle's final cost. Understanding the calculation is critical to budgeting accurately.
How BPM is calculated (2026 formula)
For passenger cars and delivery vans:
- • Base calculation: CO2 emissions in grams per kilometer
- • Fixed base amount: approximately €667 (2026, adjusted annually for inflation)
- • Variable rate: determined by CO2 emissions and tax brackets
- • The higher the CO2 emissions, the higher the BPM percentage charged
BPM calculation example: Petrol Volkswagen Golf
- • Net list price: €25.000
- • CO2 emissions: 145 g/km
- • Fixed base rate: €667
- • Variable rate (based on 145 g/km): approximately 9,2% of base amount
- • Total BPM calculation: (€25.000 × 9,2%) + €667 = €2.967 BPM tax
- Final vehicle cost: €25.000 + €2.967 = €27.967
BPM calculation example: VW ID.4 electric vehicle
- • Net list price: €42.000
- • CO2 emissions: 0 g/km (zero-emission vehicle)
- • Fixed base rate: €667
- • Variable rate: €0 (no CO2-based tax for zero-emission)
- • Total BPM calculation: €667 only
- Final vehicle cost: €42.000 + €667 = €42.667
- Annual savings comparison: Electric vehicle costs €3.300 less in BPM tax alone
For used vehicles (imported or second-hand)
You may calculate BPM using the most favorable historical rate available. This means comparing old tariff rates (when vehicle was first registered) with current tariff rates (at time of registration in Netherlands) and applying whichever results in lower BPM.
Used vehicle example (2026)
- • 5-year-old Volkswagen Golf (originally €25.000)
- • Depreciated value: approximately €15.000
- • Estimated CO2 emissions: 145 g/km (same model generation)
- • BPM based on depreciated value: approximately €1.380 + €667 = €2.047
- • Final cost: €15.000 + €2.047 = €17.047
Important note: No BPM on previously registered used cars
When you buy a used car that was already registered in the Netherlands with Dutch license plates, BPM has already been paid. The price you see on Marktplaats includes the final cost. You do NOT pay additional BPM on second-hand Dutch vehicles.
Using the official BPM calculator
The Dutch Tax Administration (Belastingdienst) provides an official BPM calculator at: Belastingdienst.nl/bpm
- 1. Select vehicle type (passenger car, delivery van, motorcycle)
- 2. Enter vehicle specifications (CO2 emissions, price or valuation)
- 3. Select registration date or date vehicle was first registered
- 4. System displays BPM amount and final cost
For expats without Dutch language skills, most dealerships will calculate BPM for you automatically and include it in quotes.
Step 4: The RDW registration process for expats
After purchasing your vehicle, you must register it with the RDW (Rijksdienst voor Wegverkeer, Royal Netherlands Motor Vehicle Authority). This is a mandatory government process.
Documentation needed
- Valid passport or EU identity card
- Proof of Dutch residence (residence confirmation from municipality, typically provided within 2 weeks of arriving)
- Proof of address in Netherlands (utility bill, rental contract, or registration confirmation)
- Vehicle documentation (title, bill of sale, previous registration certificate if applicable)
- Proof of BPM payment (provided by dealership or import agency)
- Valid third-party liability insurance (WA verzekering) (must have this BEFORE registration)
Step-by-step RDW registration
Step 1: Arrange insurance (MUST do this first)
You cannot legally drive or register a vehicle without active insurance. Process takes 1-2 days.
- • Contact insurance company or broker
- • Provide vehicle information (make, model, year, registration number)
- • Select coverage level (minimum WA, third-party liability)
- • Provide insurance certificate number to RDW
Step 2: Make RDW appointment
- • Online: www.rdw.nl (appointments available 2-4 weeks in advance)
- • By phone: +31 (0)70 456 56 56
- • In person: Any RDW inspection location
- • Appointment availability: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Step 3: Prepare vehicle for inspection
- • Ensure vehicle passes Dutch safety standards
- • All lights functional (headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals)
- • Windshield wipers and washers operational
- • Tires have proper tread depth (minimum 1,6mm)
- • Emissions level acceptable (especially important for older vehicles)
Step 4: Attend RDW appointment
Important: You must personally attend (no proxy attendance allowed)
- • Bring all original documents (copies not sufficient)
- • Arrive 15 minutes early
- • Inspection typically takes 30-45 minutes
- • Cost: €80-200 depending on vehicle origin and complexity
Step 5: Receive registration certificate
- • If inspection passes: registration certificate issued same day
- • If inspection fails: notification of required repairs with 30-day remedy period
- • Receive Dutch license plate (registration number)
- • Vehicle immediately legal to drive on public roads
Timeline: Total RDW process typically 3-5 business days from appointment to receiving plates
Special considerations for expats
One-day registration (for foreign vehicles not yet registered)
If importing a vehicle with foreign plates, you can request a one-day temporary registration:
- • Valid only for the day of RDW inspection appointment
- • Allows you to drive from home to inspection facility and back
- • Must apply through DigiD (Dutch government digital ID system)
- • No charge for one-day registration
- • You must create own temporary plates with registration number
If you don't yet have Dutch residency
- • Complete residency registration at municipality first
- • Obtain proof of address from municipality
- • Then proceed with insurance and RDW registration
- • Timeline: 5-10 days total for residency + vehicle registration
Step 5: Mandatory car insurance for all drivers
Dutch law mandates third-party liability insurance (WA verzekering) as an absolute minimum before driving any registered vehicle.
Type 1: Third-party liability insurance (WA verzekering) - MANDATORY
- • Covers damage you cause to other vehicles and property
- • Does not cover damage to your own vehicle
- • Annual cost: €300-600 (depending on age, driving record, vehicle type)
- • Legally required to drive
Type 2: Third-party + limited comprehensive (WA beperkt casco)
- • Includes third-party coverage plus:
- • Damage from theft, fire, or vandalism
- • Animal collision damage
- • Storm damage
- • Broken window coverage
- • Does not cover collision damage caused by you
- • Annual cost: €600-1.100
- • Good compromise option for most expats
Type 3: Full comprehensive coverage (WA volledig casco / all-risk)
- • Covers virtually all damage types
- • Includes collision damage (even if your fault)
- • Includes mechanical breakdown options
- • Includes legal expense coverage
- • Annual cost: €1.100-2.000+ for newer vehicles
- • Recommended for new vehicles or expensive cars
How insurance premiums are calculated (2026)
Primary factors
- • Age of driver (younger drivers: €200-400 higher annually)
- • Driving experience and no-claims history
- • Vehicle type and engine size
- • Annual mileage (tracked for discount: lower km = lower premium)
- • Parking location (secure garage vs. street)
- • Deductible amount chosen (€250-€500 options)
Sample annual premium quotes (2026)
- • Third-party only (35-year-old expat, VW Golf): €350
- • Third-party + limited (35-year-old expat, VW Golf): €700
- • Full comprehensive (35-year-old expat, new VW Golf): €1.200
- • Full comprehensive (25-year-old expat, new Audi A4): €1.600
No-claims discount system (Schadevrije jaren)
Dutch insurers reward drivers without accidents:
- • No claims for 1 year: 5-10% discount
- • No claims for 3 years: 20-25% discount
- • No claims for 5+ years: 30-40% discount
- • One claim typically resets discount to zero or 1 year
Finding and comparing insurance
Recommended brokers (English available)
- • Independer.nl (comparison site, multiple quotes in 5 minutes)
- • Verivox.nl (independent comparison tool)
- • Direct from insurers: Allianz, AXA, Aegon, Nationale Nederlanden
For expats specifically
- • International student insurance: Allianz, AXA (can provide letters for visa extensions)
- • Budget options: Directa24, Yoursafe
- • Premium services: Delverzekeren (specialized for expat needs)
Step 6: APK (periodic technical inspection) - annual safety checks
Every registered vehicle in the Netherlands must pass an annual APK (Algemene Periodieke Keuring) inspection, similar to MOT testing in the UK.
APK requirements and frequency
Mandatory inspection timeline
- • First APK: Due 36 months (3 years) after vehicle registration
- • Subsequent APK: Every 12 months thereafter
- • Can be performed up to 1 month before expiration without penalty
- • Performing APK too early (more than 1 month advance): extends validity but original expiration date still applies
Cost and duration
- • APK inspection cost: €60-85 depending on facility
- • Duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes
- • Can be performed at any authorized APK station (dealerships or independent mechanics)
What APK checks (2026 standards)
Safety systems
- • Brakes and brake fluid condition
- • Steering and suspension
- • Vehicle structure and damage
- • Seat belts and safety features
Emissions (environmental standards)
- • Exhaust emissions testing (CO2, NOx levels)
- • Particulate matter (soot) for diesel vehicles
- • Catalytic converter functionality
- • Engine oil level and condition
Lighting and visibility
- • All lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, fog lights)
- • Reflectors and markers
- • Windshield condition (cracks not exceeding 30cm)
- • Wiper blade condition
Wheels and tires
- • Tire tread depth (minimum 1,6mm, though 3mm recommended for safety)
- • Tire pressure
- • Wheel alignment and suspension
Common APK failures and costs to remedy
- • Brake pads replacement: €150-300
- • Tire replacement: €60-150 per tire
- • Windshield replacement: €200-500
- • Oil change: €50-100
- • Lightbulb replacement: €10-30 each
Expat tip: If APK fails, you typically have 30 days to repair and retest. Retesting is free if done within this window.
Step 7: Understanding annual motor vehicle tax (Motorrijtuigenbelasting - MRB)
After APK and insurance, annual motor vehicle tax is your ongoing obligation.
2026 motor vehicle tax rates
How motor vehicle tax is calculated
- • Based on vehicle weight (for diesel/petrol)
- • Based on emission class (Euro standard)
- • Varies by fuel type and environmental impact
- • Paid quarterly or annually (your choice)
Sample 2026 annual rates
- • Mid-size petrol car (VW Golf equivalent): €150-250/year
- • Mid-size diesel car: €200-300/year (includes 15% soot surcharge)
- • Electric vehicle: reduced 30% discount through 2028 = €40-80/year
- • Motorcycle/scooter: €30-80/year
Diesel surcharge (Roetbelasting)
Since January 2020, diesel vehicle owners pay approximately 15% additional tax due to particulate matter emissions.
Payment options
- • Quarterly: €40-75 per quarter for mid-range vehicles
- • Annual: One-time payment via bank transfer
- • Automatic deduction: Optional arrangement with Tax Administration
- • Payment deadline: typically February 1st for annual payment
Where to pay
- • Online: Belastingdienst.nl (my.belastingdienst.nl)
- • By mail: Check vehicle registration documents for payment instructions
- • Automatic: Set up via DigiD for automatic annual deduction
Motor vehicle tax reductions for zero-emission vehicles (2026 update)
Electric and hydrogen vehicles
- • 2024: 0% tax (fully exempt)
- • 2025: 75% discount
- • 2026-2028: 30% discount
- • 2029: 25% discount
- • 2030+: Full standard rate applies
Impact: Electric vehicle owners save €100-200 annually compared to equivalent petrol vehicles.
Step 8: Estimated total cost to purchase and own a car (2026)
Cost breakdown for new Volkswagen Golf purchase
Purchase costs
- • Vehicle list price: €25.000
- • BPM tax (9,2% approximately): €2.300
- • Delivery and documentation: €200-400
- Total purchase cost: €27.500-27.700
First-year operating costs
- • Insurance (WA only): €400
- • Motor vehicle tax: €180
- • APK inspection: €75
- • Maintenance and repairs: €300-500
- • Fuel: €1.200-1.500 (based on 12.000 km at €1,80/liter, 6L/100km consumption)
- First-year total: €2.255-2.655
Five-year total cost of ownership
- • Vehicle depreciation (typically 50-60% after 5 years): €13.500-15.000
- • Insurance: €2.000
- • Motor vehicle tax: €900
- • APK inspections (4 total): €300
- • Maintenance and repairs: €1.500-2.000
- • Fuel: €6.000-7.500
- Five-year cost: approximately €24.200-28.700 (€4.840-5.740/year)
Cost breakdown for new electric vehicle (VW ID.4)
Purchase costs
- • Vehicle list price: €42.000
- • BPM tax: €667 (fixed rate only)
- • Delivery and documentation: €200-400
- Total purchase cost: €42.867-43.067
First-year operating costs
- • Insurance (slightly higher due to vehicle value): €500
- • Motor vehicle tax (30% discount): €60
- • APK inspection: €75
- • Maintenance: €150 (minimal - no oil changes, fewer moving parts)
- • Electricity: €600-800 (based on 12.000 km consumption of 16-18 kWh/100km at €0,35/kWh)
- First-year total: €1.385-1.635
Five-year total cost of ownership
- • Vehicle depreciation (40-50% after 5 years due to battery concerns): €19.000-21.000
- • Insurance: €2.500
- • Motor vehicle tax (with discount): €300
- • APK inspections: €300
- • Maintenance: €500 (minimal repairs expected)
- • Electricity: €3.500-4.000
- Five-year cost: approximately €26.600-28.600 (€5.320-5.720/year)
Key insight
Electric vehicles have slightly lower annual ownership costs primarily due to eliminated fuel expenses, though upfront purchase price is significantly higher.
Step 9: Tips for expats making the car purchase decision
Before you buy
- Confirm your long-term residency status: If you're uncertain about staying beyond 3-4 years, seriously consider leasing instead of purchasing
- Verify insurance from day 1: Never purchase a vehicle without arranging insurance first (you cannot legally drive without it)
- Understand Dutch driving culture: Dutch drivers are aggressive; comprehensive insurance recommended for first-year drivers
- Calculate your actual driving needs: Many expats overestimate car needs in Netherlands due to excellent public transportation
- Research your specific municipality regulations: Some municipalities have stricter emissions zones or parking restrictions
After you buy
- Set up automatic payment reminders: Dutch bureaucracy has strict deadlines (missing insurance or tax payments results in significant penalties)
- Join an expat car ownership group: Local Facebook groups provide valuable advice on mechanics, insurance companies, and specific municipality requirements
- Establish regular maintenance schedule: German-engineered vehicles require discipline with regular servicing to maintain warranty and reliability
- Understand breakdown assistance: Consider adding ANWB membership (€60-80/year) for roadside assistance
- Track your no-claims history: This significantly impacts future insurance costs (keep documentation)
Complete registration checklist for expats
Key resources for expats
Official government resources
- RDW.nl - Vehicle registration authority (has English pages)
- Belastingdienst.nl - BPM tax information
- Belastingdienst.nl - Motor vehicle tax information
- Government.nl - General expat information on vehicles
Insurance comparison
- Independer.nl - Insurance quotes and comparison
- Verivox.nl - Independent broker service
Vehicle purchase
- Marktplaats.nl - Largest used car marketplace
- Autoscout24.nl - International vehicle database
Frequently asked questions
How many types of taxes do I need to pay when owning a car in the Netherlands?
Three main types: (1) BPM (paid once when purchasing/importing, 21% of value for most vehicles); (2) Motor vehicle tax (MRB, annual tax based on vehicle weight/emissions, paid quarterly or annually); (3) Fuel tax (already included in petrol/diesel price). Road/congestion charges apply in some areas (Amsterdam, Rotterdam).
If I buy a used car that was already registered in the Netherlands, do I pay BPM again?
No. BPM is only paid once when a vehicle is first registered with Dutch license plates. Used Dutch vehicles on Marktplaats already have BPM included in the price. You only pay BPM again if importing a vehicle from abroad or purchasing a new car.
Are electric vehicles really worth it if BPM and road tax benefits are being phased out by 2026-2030?
Yes, even with phasing out benefits. EVs save significantly on fuel (electricity €0,35/kWh vs petrol €1,80/L), minimal maintenance (no oil changes, fewer moving parts), and road tax will still be lower than petrol cars. Total 5-year cost nearly identical to petrol cars, but with much lower running costs.
Can my landlord or a family member register the car for me at RDW, or must I go in person?
You must attend RDW appointment personally (no proxy attendance allowed). Both you and landlord must bring valid ID. RDW uses your passport and municipality registration (proof of address), not BSN.
How often do I need an APK and what does it check?
First APK at 3 years after registration, then annually. Checks: lights, brakes, steering, tires, suspension, emissions, windshield, wipers, seat belts. Cost: €60-85. Most cars pass easily if maintained. Common failure: tread depth (replace tires).
Should I lease or buy if I'm only staying 3 years in Netherlands?
Lean toward leasing. Buying means: selling private car is difficult, residual value unknown, hassle when leaving (deregistration). Lease avoids these issues and includes maintenance. Annual lease cost €4.200-6.200 typically.
Can I avoid BPM if I claim the car is part of my moving household goods?
Possible but strict requirements: (1) Must have owned car 6+ months before moving; (2) Must have lived abroad 12+ months; (3) Must have foreign registration documents; (4) Submit exemption request to Belastingdienst. If approved, pay only €667 fixed rate. If denied, pay full BPM.
What's the difference between WA, WA beperkt, and WA volledig insurance?
WA (third-party only) is mandatory and cheapest (covers damage you cause others). WA beperkt adds theft/fire/weather (middle option). WA volledig adds all collision damage including your fault (most comprehensive). Most expats choose WA beperkt (€600-1.100/year) as good balance.
All guides
Explore comprehensive guides for expats in Netherlands
Moving checklist
Step-by-step tasks including vehicle registration
FAQ page
166 questions covering all aspects of expat life