All about the registration certificate
A registration certificate is a document that allows you to show that you are the owner of a vehicle. The paper registration certificate has been replaced by a registration certificate on a card (registration card). If your car is stolen, you must show all parts. So do not keep this in the car.
The registration certificate
The registration certificate states, among other things:
The registration number of the vehicle
Personal data of the registered owner
Vehicle data:
make, type, weight, fuel type, chassis number
The date of first admission and registration
The registration card is also known as a license plate.
Since 2014, the new registration certificate consists of a registration card (part I) and unique "registration code" (part II).
From paper registration certificate to registration card
On Jan. 1, 2014, the paper registration certificate was replaced by a credit card-sized registration certificate (the registration card) and a unique registration code.
The older, paper version consists of 3 parts: the vehicle certificate (part 1A), the registration certificate (part 1B) and the transfer certificate (part III).
The old paper registration certificate
Part 1 used to consist of 2 parts, Part 1A and Part 1B.
1A was the vehicle certificate that contained the vehicle data.
1B was the registration certificate with the registration information.
In the new registration certificate, these are merged into the registration card. You can exchange the old paper registration certificate for a credit card-sized registration certificate. This costs €12.10 (2025).
Transfer certificate now registration code
Part 3 of the old registration certificate was also called the transfer certificate. You needed this proof if you wanted to transfer the registration certificate to another name and had to keep it safe. Today, the transfer certificate has been replaced by the registration code.
The registration code consists of 9 digits. You need the code if you want to sell, trade in, suspend, scrap or export your vehicle. Keep the registration code safe.
Lost registration certificate: apply for a new registration card
Have you lost your registration certificate (the registration card), is it stolen or damaged? Then apply for a new registration certificate with registration code.
Never keep the registration certificate in the car
You must show the registration card to the police if they ask for it. Many people with a new registration certificate therefore keep the registration card in the glove box of their car. Don't do this.
If your car is stolen and you cannot show the entire registration card, the insurer may refuse to pay. Therefore, keep the registration card in your wallet along with your driver's license. It is best to keep the registration code at home.
Do you still have an old paper registration certificate? If so, never keep the registration certificate in the car. Put it at home in a safe place. The other 2 parts (part 1A and 1B) must be with you when you drive your car, so it's best to keep them in your wallet.
Wrong or fake registration card
Not sure if the registration card belongs to the right vehicle or is genuine? You can check this on the RDW website. At document number validation, enter the document number and the license plate number of the card. Then you can see whether this combination is correct according to the vehicle registry.
Frequently asked questions about the registration certificate
What is the difference between a paper registration certificate and a registration card?
The paper registration certificate consisted of three separate parts: vehicle certificate (1A), registration certificate (1B) and transfer certificate (III). Since January 1, 2014, this has been replaced by a vehicle registration card (credit card format) and a registration code. All data are now bundled on one card, making it more convenient and secure.
Can I still drive with an old paper license plate?
Yes, you may as long as the paper registration certificate is complete and legible. You can voluntarily exchange it for a registration card, which is recommended for its improved security and ease of use.
What happens to the old registration certificate after replacement?
After receiving a new registration certificate, you must destroy the old one. Cut the paper copy or throw away a previous registration card. The old registration code will automatically become invalid.
How long is a registration certificate valid?
A registration certificate is basically valid indefinitely as long as the vehicle is in your name. Only in case of loss, theft, damage or change of vehicle or personal data do you have to apply for a new one.
What should I do with a damaged registration card?
If the registration card is damaged, apply for a new registration certificate through the RDW. You will then receive a new card and a new registration code. The cost for this is €39.80 (2025).
Do I have to carry the registration certificate with me at all times?
Yes, you must be able to show the registration certificate (Part I: registration card) at an inspection. Therefore, keep the card preferably in your wallet and not in the car. Keep the registration code (part II) safely at home.
Can I store my registration certificate digitally?
No, the registration certificate is a physical document and must be shown in its original form. There is currently no way to use a digital version as a substitute for checks.
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