The kentekencard is your car's official registration certificate, the size of a credit card. The RDW has issued it since 1 January 2014, and since 11 June 2024 it has a new design. It shows the main vehicle and registration details, including the meldcode (the last 4 digits of the VIN) that you need to insure the car. You must carry the card when you drive.
Note that the card is issued to the registered keeper (kentekenhouder), who is not always the owner, for example with a lease car.
Why it matters when buying or selling
To transfer a car, the seller needs the valid kentekencard and the complete registration code (tenaamstellingscode). After the transfer, the RDW posts a new card to the buyer, who only has to carry it after 14 days; abroad, the registration certificate must always be with you. Lost it? A new kentekencard with code costs €39.80. In a hurry? An express card costs €61.50 if you collect it in Veendam, or €241.55 by courier. When buying, check that the details on the card match the car and its VIN.