I'm moving abroad temporarily and leaving my car in the Netherlands. What do I need to arrange?

Advantages and rules of vehicle registration suspension

You don't need a valid APK inspection certificate or insurance for a car whose registration has been suspended. You will also not need to pay any motor vehicle tax (MRB) on the car for the period in question. The registration certificate will remain valid.

You can only suspend the registration of a car in your name. You can suspend the vehicle registration for a period of 1, 2 or 3 years. You can always end the suspension earlier. Or extend it.

Suspending your vehicle registration online

To suspend your vehicle registration online, you will need a DigiD or an EU-approved login key.

Using your DigiD

If you suspend your vehicle registration using your DigiD, you will need to pay the costs via iDeal.

Using an EU-approved login key 

If you suspend your vehicle registration using an EU-approved login key from another European country, you will need your citizen service number (BSN) and Dutch bank account details. 

After you have submitted your application

After you have submitted your application, you will receive a confirmation email from the RDW. Your vehicle registration is only suspended once the RDW has approved your application. You will receive a second email from the RDW. This email will contain the date your vehicle registration suspension will end. The second email acts as proof of suspension.

Suspending your vehicle registration in person

You can also suspend your vehicle registration at a kentekenloket (a garage that provides this service), inspection facility or RDW location. You do not need to make an appointment, bring the following documents with you:

• a valid passport, ID card or driving licence
• registration card and registration code or your paper registration certificate and transfer certificate

Your vehicle registration will be suspended immediately. You will receive proof of suspension. Keep this document safe.

Cost of suspending registration

Suspension is not free of charge. You will not receive a refund if you end the suspension earlier.

Find out the costs of suspending vehicle registration (RDW.nl)

After your vehicle registration has been suspended

Once your vehicle registration is suspended, you will no longer be required to pay motor vehicle tax (MRB). The Netherlands Vehicle Authority (RDW) will inform the Tax Administration that your vehicle registration has been suspended. You do not need to do this yourself.

You must park your car on private property for the suspension period. You may be fined if you park your car on a public road. After you have parked the car, you can cancel your insurance policy.

What you also need to arrange if you’re going to move abroad

Check what else you need to arrange if you are going to move abroad