Vehicle inspection in Netherlands (2026)

Last reviewed: 7 November 2026

In short: A petrol or electric car has its first APK at 4 years, then every 2 years and yearly from 8; diesel and gas cars are tested yearly from 3. It is done at an RDW-recognised garage. An overdue APK can lead to a fine of EUR 180 to 500.

RuleWhat applies
First inspection of a new carVehicle inspectionA new petrol, alcohol or electric car must have its first APK when it is 4 years old. A new diesel or gas car (or other fuel) must have it at 3 years. [1]
Inspection intervalVehicle inspectionA petrol, alcohol or electric car is tested twice at 2-year intervals after the first APK (to age 8) and then every year. A diesel or gas car is tested every year from the age of 3. [1]
Who carries out the testVehicle inspectionThe APK is carried out by an APK inspector at a garage recognised by the RDW (marked 'RDW erkend'). [2]
Penalty for an overdue testVehicle inspectionDriving without a valid APK can lead to a fine from the police. If the vehicle is not tested within 2 months of the APK expiring, the CJIB (Central Judicial Collection Agency) issues a fine of between EUR 180 and EUR 500. [2]
Foreign cars visitingVehicle inspection⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The RDW pages read cover Dutch-registered cars only. Whether visiting foreign cars need an APK was not confirmed.

Sources

  1. RDW: Wanneer en hoe vaak APK keuren (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
  2. RDW: Over de APK (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.