The registration code
A registration code is a unique 9-digit code you need to register a vehicle in your name with the RDW. Do you want to put a car, motorcycle or other vehicle in your name? Then you need this code. You also use the code if you sell, scrap, suspend, trade in or export a vehicle.
Registration code and the registration card
You used to need a transfer certificate (Part II or copy Part III) to put a license plate in your name. Now that has been replaced by a registration card. On this card is a 9-digit code called the registration code.
The registration code accompanies your vehicle's registration card and shows that you are the owner. The code is unique and has 2 parts.
Registration code needed for sale, dismantling, suspension and export
You need the registration code when transferring a license plate to another name. For example, if you are buying or selling a car. This code proves that you are the owner.
In addition, the registration code is required when suspending a vehicle so that you temporarily do not have to pay road tax and insurance.
If you export a vehicle, you need the code to officially stop the registration in the Netherlands. You cannot do this without the registration code.
Registration code you get from the RDW
You receive the registration code when you register a vehicle at the RDW. You will receive the first part of the code immediately when you transfer the vehicle and this is on the registration certificate. The second part of the code can be found in the letter that you will receive a few days later from the RDW by mail together with your registration card.
In this letter you will find the last 5 digits of the code. You may choose the first 4 digits yourself. Keep both parts well, because you will need the whole code if you want to do something with your car such as sell, scrap or suspend it.
First and second parts of the registration code
First part
At the time of registration, you will receive the registration certificate that contains the first 4 digits of the code. However, this is not sufficient to perform operations such as sales; you also need the second part.
Second part
You will receive this part by mail a few days later, together with the registration card. This part contains the last 5 digits of the registration code. Both parts together form a unique 9-digit code.
Requesting a new registration code
If you have lost your registration code, you can request a new one through the RDW website.
Learn more about applying for a new registration code.
Registration code or report code
A registration code is the proof of ownership and consists of 9 digits. A car's registration code is a unique 4-digit code and you need it for your car insurance. The code is equal to the last 4 digits of your car's chassis number.
An insurer needs the report code to register the car with the RDW. Without a report code, you can't get car insurance either. With the report code the RDW can see that the car is (at least) WAM-insured is.
Frequently asked questions about the registration code
When will I receive the registration code?
The registration code consists of two parts. You will receive the first part of the code (the first 4 digits) when you transfer the vehicle to your name. This is on the registration certificate you receive from the RDW. The second part will be sent by mail a few days later, together with your registration card.
What should I do if I lose my registration code?
Have you lost the code? Then you can easily apply for a new one at the RDW. Log in online with your DigiD and within minutes you will receive a new code that you can download immediately.
If you keep the registration code properly, you will avoid problems and you can always take care of everything for your vehicle.
How can I keep my registration code safe?
It's important to keep the first and second parts of the registration code safe, such as in a folder with important papers. You will need the code for various things with your vehicle, so don't lose it.
What are the costs and how long does it take to apply for a new registration code?
Applying for a new registration code on the RDW website costs €1.25. After payment, you will receive the new code digitally within a few minutes, if you log in with your DigiD.
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