After the plate check

Buying a used car in the Netherlands: from plate to keys

First check whether the car is good, then arrange the purchase properly. Your buying plan below puts the steps in the right order for your situation. The transfer costs € 13.10, and the car must be insured from the moment it is in your name.

Your buying plan

Answer the questions; the steps adapt. Answers and ticks stay in this browser only.

Who are you buying from?
Which registration document does the car have?
Do you have the DigiD app with ID check?
Are you registered with a Dutch municipality?
Where was your driving licence issued?

Guides for the purchase

Transferring the carTransferring a used car in the Netherlands: cost, ways and documentsInsuranceInsuring a used car in the Netherlands: when and which coverPurchase agreementUsed-car purchase agreement: what to put in itDealer or private sellerBuying from a dealer or a private seller: your rightsPre-purchase inspectionPre-purchase inspection: when is it worth it?CostsWhat a used car costs on top of the priceAccidentWhat to do after an accident, step by stepFor expatsLicence, BRP, DigiD and insurance when you are new in the Netherlands

Frequently asked questions

How do you buy a used car safely in the Netherlands?

First check the plate (APK history, recall, odometer), view the car with a checklist, put the agreements in a purchase agreement, take out third-party insurance and transfer the car at the RDW (€ 13.10). Buying from a business gives you a legal guarantee.

What do you need to transfer a car?

The seller’s registration card and full registration code, third-party insurance from the moment of transfer, and registration in the BRP with a Dutch address. Online you need the DigiD app with ID check; at a counter, valid ID.

Sources

Checked on 19 October 2026. General information, not legal or insurance advice; the official source always prevails. Something out of date? Let us know.