APK reminder
Look up by plate when the APK expires, see from when you may have it tested and set a reminder.
Look up the APK date
Sample plates:
APK status
Look up a plate or enter an APK date first.
Which APK rule applies?
According to the RDW, counted from the date of first registration. Check your situation on rdw.nl.
- Petrol, electric or petrol hybrid: first test after 4 years, then twice at 2-year intervals, then every year from age 8
- Diesel, LPG or other (also combined with electric): first test after 3 years, then every year
- 30 years or older: every 2 years
- 50 years or older: no APK required
Set a reminder
Privacy: your plate, APK date and email address are stored only in this browser (localStorage) and are not sent to Sell Your Car. You can remove a reminder here at any time. Looking up a plate uses the RDW’s public data.
How often does a car need an APK?
It depends on fuel type and age, counted from the date of first registration. These are the rules for passenger cars according to the RDW (October 2026):
| Fuel and age | First APK | After that |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol, electric or petrol hybrid | after 4 years | twice at 2-year intervals, then every year from age 8 |
| Diesel, LPG or other | after 3 years | every year |
| 30 years or older | – | every 2 years |
| 50 years or older | – | no APK required |
Always check your own situation on rdw.nl. Read more about the APK, the Dutch roadworthiness test, in our glossary.
When can you have the APK done?
You may test up to 2 months before the expiry date and keep the same APK date, plus 1 or 2 years. A reminder 2 months ahead therefore gives you the most room to book an appointment.
What does an APK cost in 2026?
€19 to €70 according to the ANWB; diesels sometimes cost more. Any repairs come on top if the car fails. Compare prices at RDW-approved garages near you.
What happens if the APK has expired?
Without a valid APK the car may not be used on public roads, so a buyer cannot take a test drive either. If you are selling, a fresh APK makes the car easier to sell; if you expect costly repairs, you can also sell without a new APK and reflect that in the price. See get your car ready to sell and check your ad with the listing score.
Is an APK the same as a pre-purchase inspection?
No. An APK only checks minimum safety and environmental standards on one day. A pre-purchase inspection looks wider at mechanics, damage and maintenance. Buying a used car? Also go through the inspection checklist.
Frequently asked questions
How often does a diesel need an APK?
Every year, after a first APK when the car is 3 years old. The same applies to LPG cars. From 30 years old it is every 2 years, and from 50 years there is no APK requirement. Check your situation on rdw.nl.
Can I drive with an expired APK?
No. Without a valid APK a car may not be used on public roads, which also means a buyer cannot take a test drive. So plan the test in time; you can test up to 2 months before expiry without changing your date.
Should I get a new APK before selling?
No, it is not required. A fresh APK does make the car more attractive, and the test itself costs €19 to €70 according to the ANWB. The risk lies in the repairs it may turn up. Always state the APK date in your ad.
What do you do with my email address?
In this version, nothing: your reminder is stored only in your own browser and nothing is sent to Sell Your Car. You can see your reminders on this page and remove them there at any time.