Vehicle Inspection for Classic Cars

Classic cars older than 50 years are exempt from the mandatory vehicle inspection requirement

As of January 1, 2021, cars that are 50 years old or older are no longer required to undergo an APK inspection. Previously, this rule applied only to cars manufactured before January 1, 1960. Owners of cars that are 50 years old or older will receive a letter from the RDW stating that they are exempt from the APK inspection.

In 2020, the Senate approved an amendment to the Road Traffic Act that exempts cars 50 years old or older from the mandatory vehicle inspection (APK). Previously, this applied only to cars manufactured before January 1, 1960. Now, a 50-year threshold is used instead of a specific year.

Check when your vehicle inspection expires

The RDW checks the registry daily. You can use the RDW's license plate lookup tool to see when your car's APK expires.

50-Year Milestone

Many classic cars that are 50 years old or older are owned by enthusiasts who maintain them very well and drive them relatively little.

Furthermore, many APK inspectors often lack the necessary knowledge to perform an APK inspection on cars of that age. That is why the age limit was set at 50 years.

Terms and Conditions

There are a number of conditions:

• The car's weight may not exceed 3,500 kilograms; otherwise, it is subject to an annual inspection requirement.
• Heavier cars manufactured before 1960 are, however, exempt from the APK.
• The APK remains mandatory for older taxis, public transportation vehicles, and ADR vehicles (hazardous materials), due to the nature of these types of vehicles.

Rules Regarding Suspension

Failure to comply with the mandatory inspection requirement is a criminal offense. If your classic car does not pass the APK, your license plate may be suspended. During the suspension period, the APK is not required.

You can also make sure your classic car passes its vehicle inspection within two months. During that time, you may only drive it to the garage. A classic car with a suspended license plate does not need classic car insurance.

Regulations for Classic Car Events

Classic car events are organized regularly. If you want to participate, special event regulations apply to classic cars. Under these regulations, you are allowed to drive your classic car to an event once without a valid vehicle inspection certificate.

You do have to register for the event, and your registration must be approved by the event organizer. Then you can drive your classic car to the event.