Buying a used car
What a used car costs on top of the price
On top of the price, count on four fixed items: transfer (€ 13.10), motor vehicle tax, compulsory third-party insurance and the APK. Then add the repairs that come with the model and age.
The items in a row
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer | € 13.10 | One-off, at the RDW; the same online and at a counter. |
| Express registration card | € 241.55 | Only if you cannot wait; pick-up in Veendam costs € 61.50 extra. |
| Motor vehicle tax | Depends on weight, fuel and province | The bill comes by itself after the transfer. Tax Administration calculator (Dutch) |
| Third-party insurance | Differs per person and car | Compulsory from the transfer; WA+ or all-risk costs more. Which cover? |
| APK | Differs per garage | Plus repairing what the inspector finds. What your model often has |
| Repairs | Small, medium or large | The model’s weak spots at that age, with a repair indication, are in the used-car report. |
Fines if you forget something
- No third-party insurance: € 500 (passenger car).
- No valid APK: € 190 (vehicle up to 3,500 kg).
The Public Prosecution Service sets the amounts; the RDW imposes the fine.
All steps in the right order, for your situation: make your buying plan
Looking at a used car? Check that car
Enter the plate and see the APK history, open recalls and how the car compares with the same model at the same age.
Frequently asked questions
What does a used car cost besides the price?
Transfer (€ 13.10), motor vehicle tax (depending on weight, fuel and province), compulsory third-party insurance, the APK and repairs. Calculate the tax before buying with the Tax Administration’s calculator.
More on buying: Transferring the car · Insurance · Purchase agreement · Dealer or private seller · Pre-purchase inspection
Sources
- RDW: Transfer registration number to a person’s name
- Belastingdienst: Calculate motor vehicle tax (Dutch)
- RDW: Fine amounts (Dutch)
Checked on 19 October 2026. General information, not legal or insurance advice; the official source always prevails. Something out of date? Let us know.