In the Netherlands, an MOT is standard valid for 1 year. New cars are the only exception: petrol and electric cars receive a first MOT that is valid for 4 years, while diesel cars receive a first MOT that is valid for 3 years. After that, every MOT is valid for the standard 1 year. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about the MOT inspection.
When does an MOT become valid for 2 years instead of 1?
In the Netherlands, an MOT is never valid for 2 years. This is a persistent misconception. The MOT is always valid for 1 year, with the exception of the very first inspection of a new car. New petrol and electric cars don’t need their first MOT until after 4 years. New diesel cars don’t need their first MOT until after 3 years. After that, all cars are subject to an annual inspection.
The misconception about 2 years likely stems from people confusing the rules with one another, or thinking of older regulations. In practice: if you drive a car that has already had its first MOT, you need to have it inspected again every year.
What happens if your MOT has expired?
If your MOT has expired, you are no longer allowed to use the car on public roads. The police can pull you over and issue a fine. On top of that, you risk your insurance not paying out in the event of an accident, because your car did not meet the legal requirements at the time of the damage.
The fine for driving with an expired MOT can amount to more than 350 euros. That’s a hefty bill for something you can easily avoid. So make sure you keep track of the expiry date. You can always look up your MOT expiry date using your licence plate on the RDW website.
One more practical point: if your car has been sitting unused for a while and you want to start driving it again, check whether the MOT is still valid before you head out on the road.
How far in advance can you have your MOT done?
You can have your MOT carried out up to 3 months before the expiry date without losing any of the remaining validity. For example, if your MOT expires on 1 October, you can have it done as early as 1 July. The new MOT will then simply run for 1 year from 1 October.
This is useful to know, because it allows you to schedule the inspection at a time that suits you without losing any validity. If you go more than 3 months early, you will lose part of the validity period. If you have it done after the expiry date, you will be driving illegally in the meantime.
Our advice: simply schedule the MOT a few weeks in advance. That gives you some breathing room in case anything needs to be repaired before the car can pass.
What is checked during an MOT inspection?
During an MOT inspection, the testing station checks whether your car meets the legal safety requirements. The inspection focuses on everything related to road safety and the environment — think brakes, lighting, steering, tyres, bodywork, and emissions.
The main components that are checked:
- Brakes: performance of front and rear brakes, including the handbrake
- Lighting: all lights, indicators, and rear lights
- Tyres: tread depth and condition
- Steering: play and condition
- Bodywork: rust on load-bearing parts
- Emissions: CO2 and particulate emissions (depending on fuel type)
- Wipers and windows: visibility and condition of the windscreen
- Hinges and locks: doors, bonnet, and boot lid
If something fails, you will receive a list of defects. Minor defects can be fixed yourself, after which you can return for a re-inspection. For major defects, you may not be permitted to drive the car until the issue has been resolved. A thorough service before the MOT helps avoid any surprises.
What does an MOT inspection cost on average in the Netherlands?
The cost of an MOT inspection in the Netherlands averages between 35 and 75 euros for a passenger car, depending on where you have it carried out. Large chains tend to charge less, while specialist garages charge slightly more — though you generally receive more personal attention and explanation in return.
Please note: the inspection fee covers the inspection itself only. If defects are found that need to be repaired, additional repair costs will apply. It therefore pays to keep your car well maintained, so you’re not caught off guard on the day of the inspection.
A tip: some garages offer a combined package where the MOT is bundled with a minor service. This can work out to be good value, and your car will be in great shape straight away.
How Autobedrijven Verdonk helps with your MOT inspection
At Autobedrijven Verdonk in Veldhoven, we carry out official MOT inspections for all makes and models. We are an approved testing station and take the time to explain what we’ve found and what it means for your car — no complicated jargon, just clear and straightforward information.
- MOT inspections for all car makes and models
- Immediate advice on any repairs or defects
- Approved Renault dealer workshop, including for lease vehicles
- Transparent pricing, no surprises afterwards
- Specialists in Renault, Citroën, Peugeot, and Dacia, but all makes are welcome
Autobedrijven Verdonk also carries out servicing and repairs for all other car makes and models.
Would you like to book your MOT or do you have questions about the inspection? Feel free to get in touch or visit us in Veldhoven. Contact us or read more about our history and who we are.