Registration code lost
The registration code proves that you are the owner of the vehicle. You need the registration code if you want to sell, suspend or transfer your vehicle. Have you (partially) lost the code? You can reapply for it via RDW.
A registration code
When you register a vehicle registration in your name, you will receive a registration code: a 9-digit unique code consisting of 2 parts. You should keep the registration code safe. Without this code it is not possible to transfer your car.
Yet it happens quite often that it gets lost. For example, if a vehicle changes hands, if the registration certificate is lost or if the letter with part of the code can no longer be found.
Fortunately, you can always request a new 9-digit registration code from the RDW. The old, lost code is then invalid.
Registration code consists of 2 parts
The first part is given to you at the time of transfer and is on the registration certificate.
The second part of the code is in the letter you will receive from RDW a few days later, together with your registration card. You should keep this code well, but of course it can happen that you lose it by accident.
Requesting a new registration code
Requesting a replacement registration code can be done in 2 ways, depending on whether you have a DigiD account or not.
Cost
Reapplying for the registration code costs €1.25.
Apply for registration code with DigiD
If you have a DigiD account, you can easily apply for the new registration code online through the RDW website. To do so, follow these steps:
- Go to the "Lost car registration code" page on the RDW website and log in with your DigiD.
- Select the 'Instant download registration code' option.
- Pay the fee of €1.25 via iDeal.
- You will then receive two emails from the RDW. The second message contains a link that allows you to download the new code.
The new code is valid for 40 days. It is important that you download it right away and save it properly. Once you have requested a new code, the old one will automatically expire.
Apply for registration code without DigiD
Don't have a DigiD account? Then you can also apply for a new registration code without DigiD. The difference is that you will not receive the code digitally, but by mail. This process works as follows:
- Go to the "Apply for registration code" page on the RDW website.
- Choose the option "Request registration code only.
- Have the vehicle identification number handy, as listed on the back of your registration certificate.
- Pay the fee via iDeal.
The RDW sends the new registration code by mail to the vehicle owner's address registered with the municipality. It may take several days for you to receive it.
You need a registration code in these situations
Selling your car
Having your vehicle scrapped
Suspending the license plate
Trading in your car at a dealership
Exporting your vehicle
Keep your new registration code safe
Whether you apply for a new registration code with or without DigiD, it is important to keep it safe as soon as you receive it. The new registration code is valid for 40 days.
Therefore, download it immediately and keep it carefully. Once you have requested a new registration code, the old one will expire.
Frequently asked questions about losing your registration code
Where can I find my registration code?
Your registration code consists of 9 digits divided into two parts. If you registered your vehicle after 2014, you will find the first part on the registration report you received when you bought it. The second part is on the registration certificate (the registration card). Both documents are needed to have your code complete. If you can no longer find these papers, you need to apply for a new code through the RDW.
Can someone else retrieve my registration code?
No, only the registered owner of the vehicle can request a new registration code from the RDW. This can be done via the website using DigiD or in writing. This prevents abuse and keeps the process secure. Therefore, make sure you do not share this code and keep it safe.
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