Cars built before 1960 are completely exempt from the MOT test in the Netherlands. This means that if you drive a car built before January 1, 1960, you can use public roads without a valid MOT certificate. Cars built after 1960 are subject to mandatory MOT testing once they reach a certain age, depending on fuel type. Below, we explain exactly how the rules work.
At what age does a car require an MOT?
A new car does not need to go through an MOT straight away. For petrol and electric cars, the first MOT is due after four years. For diesel cars, it is required after three years. After that, every car must be inspected annually, regardless of make or age, unless it falls under the classic car exemption.
In practical terms: if you buy a new petrol car in 2026, your first MOT will be due in 2030. If you drive a new diesel car, that first inspection is already scheduled for 2029. After the first MOT, the cycle becomes annual. This interval applies to virtually all passenger cars built after 1960.
Are there cars that never require an MOT?
Yes, cars built before January 1, 1960 are permanently exempt from the MOT requirement. These vehicles never need to be inspected, regardless of how many miles are on the clock or how often they are used. They are free to drive on public roads without an MOT certificate.
That may sound surprising, but the reasoning is straightforward: cars built before 1960 are rare, are rarely used on a daily basis, and fall into a separate category as historic vehicles. That said, being MOT-exempt does not mean you can drive without a care in the world. Your car must always be roadworthy. If a police officer determines that your vehicle is dangerous, you can still be fined — MOT exemption or not.
What are the MOT rules for classic cars in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, a car is considered a classic once it is at least 25 years old. However, classic cars are only exempt from the MOT if they were built before 1960. Classic cars built between 1960 and 2001 are still required to undergo an annual MOT, but with a classic car insurance policy and limited use, they may qualify for other tax benefits, such as a reduced road tax rate.
Classic cars and road tax
Cars that are 40 years old or more qualify for a significantly reduced road tax rate. This is a separate benefit that is independent of the MOT requirement. So you can own a classic car that still needs an MOT but for which you pay less tax.
Classic cars and insurance
Specialist classic car insurance policies are available that take into account limited use and the historic value of the vehicle. Some insurers require that the car is driven no more than a set number of miles per year. Always check this carefully when taking out a policy.
How often does a car need an MOT?
After the first MOT, every car subject to the requirement must be inspected annually. This applies to all passenger cars, regardless of make, year of manufacture, or fuel type, as long as they fall under the MOT obligation. The inspection period is tied to the expiry date shown on your vehicle registration document.
| Fuel type | First MOT after | After that |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 4 years | Annually |
| Electric | 4 years | Annually |
| Diesel | 3 years | Annually |
You can have your MOT carried out up to three months before the expiry date without losing your next due date. If you have it done earlier than that, the expiry date simply moves forward by one year from the original date, not from the date of the inspection. This is useful to know if you want to schedule your MOT a little ahead of time.
What happens if you drive without a valid MOT certificate?
Driving without a valid MOT certificate is an offense and can result in a fine of over 160 euros. In addition, your insurer may refuse to pay out in the event of an accident if it turns out your MOT had expired at the time of the incident. That is a risk you really do not want to take.
Beyond the fine and the insurance risk, in the worst case the police can have your car immobilized until the inspection has been carried out. Not only are you driving illegally, but you also run the risk of having your car seized on the spot. The practical consequences can therefore add up quickly.
Want to know when your MOT expires? You can easily check this on the RDW website. Enter your license plate number and the expiry date will be displayed immediately. That way you will never be caught off guard. Want to know more about maintenance and repairs for your car? We are happy to help.
How Autobedrijven Verdonk helps with your MOT
At Autobedrijven Verdonk, we carry out official MOT inspections for all makes. Whether you drive a Renault, Peugeot, Citroën, Dacia, or any other make, you have come to the right place. We do not just check whether your car passes the inspection — we also give you honest advice about anything that may still need attention.
- MOT for all makes, including petrol, diesel, and electric
- Clear explanations of what we find and what it means for you
- Transparent pricing, no hidden costs
- Advice on next steps if repairs are needed
- Fast scheduling, including for lease vehicles at an authorized dealer
Would you like to book your MOT or do you have questions about the inspection? Feel free to contact us or visit us in Veldhoven. Get in touch and we will find a time that works for you. Curious about our story? Read more about our history and why we have been a trusted name in the region for over 95 years.
Autobedrijven Verdonk also carries out maintenance and repairs for all other car makes.