If you want to export a vehicle from the Netherlands, you must have it deregistered. To this end, you register the vehicle for export with the Netherlands Vehicle Authority (RDW). If you need to drive the vehicle on Dutch public roads while exporting, an export registration number is required as well as black and white licence plates.
Registering a vehicle for export
To register a vehicle for export:
- You register the vehicles online through a recognised Export Service (erkenning ED).
- You complete an export statement and submit it to one of the 16 RDW inspection stations or to the Customer Service Desk in Zoetermeer or Veendam.
- Are you a car dealer and is the vehicle part of your company stock? You must notify the vehicle online through the Online Registration Export Traders (Online Registratie Export Handelaren OREH, in Dutch)
You must register each vehicle separately for export.
Destination country: Certificate of Conformity for vehicles
If you export a vehicle, you have to deal with import and registration procedures in the destination country. The manufacturer issues a Certificate of Conformity (Certificaat van Overeenstemming, CVO) for a vehicle that has been built in accordance with a European type approval. It shows that the vehicle meets the relevant admission requirements. The CVO contains the technical details and the EC type approval number. You will need this number in order to obtain a car registration in an EU Member State.
Export number plates
So-called export plates are required. You put the existing licence plate numbers onto white plates with indelible black ink. You can make these licence plates yourself but you need to make sure that they are legible in bad weather as well. You can also have them made at an approved number plate manufacturer (in Dutch). With these export plates and registration certificate part II you can drive on Dutch public roads for a maximum of 14 days. During this period your vehicle needs to be insured and have a valid PTI (APK).
Transit number plate
If you want to transport a vehicle through the Netherlands without a Dutch licence plate, you require a temporary transit licence number from RDW. The vehicle also has to meet certain requirements. You can obtain a transit licence number certificate from one of the RDW inspection stations.