Everything you need to know about the MOT

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At Carvendo, we know one thing for sure: your car is more than just a means of transport. It’s a part of your daily life. Whether you’re driving to work every morning, taking the kids to school, or just heading out for a drive, you want your car to be reliable and safe.

And that’s where the MOT inspection comes in. It might not be the most exciting topic, but it’s an important one for everyone. The MOT, or General Periodic Inspection, is a legal requirement in the Netherlands.

It’s essentially a health check for your car. It’s not a major operation, but a moment for a specialist to ensure everything is still in order. This is not only for your own safety, but also for the safety of others on the road and for the environment.

What happens during the MOT inspection?

During the inspection, the mechanic checks three main areas: safety, environment, and registration. Safety covers things like brakes, lighting, tires, and shock absorbers—everything that determines whether you can stop, steer, and be seen safely.

The environmental aspect focuses on emissions: for petrol and especially diesel cars, they check to ensure your vehicle isn't emitting excessive pollutants.

Then there’s the registration check: is the mileage correct, is the chassis number in order, and are there any outstanding recalls? It’s all part of the check.

Many people think an MOT is the same as a maintenance service, but that’s not the case. A car can pass its MOT while still having wear and tear that will soon need attention. The inspection looks purely at what is legally required to be safe on the road, not whether your car drives like new.

How often you need an MOT depends on the age and type of your car. If you drive a petrol or electric car, it’s straightforward: the first inspection is after four years, then every two years, and annually from the eighth year onwards. For diesel and LPG cars, it’s a bit stricter: the first inspection is after three years, and then every year. This makes sense, as these engines are more technically complex and have a greater impact on the environment.

How much does an MOT inspection cost?

The cost? On average, between thirty and fifty euros. It’s not a huge amount, especially when you consider what you get in return: peace of mind. Some garages offer the MOT for free if you combine it with a maintenance service.

That sounds attractive, but it’s always wise to ask what exactly is covered by ‘free.’ If repairs are needed to pass the inspection, those costs will naturally be added on top.

What happens if you miss your MOT deadline?

That’s when the real trouble starts. An expired MOT isn't just inconvenient—it’s simply not allowed to be on the road. The RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) automatically checks if your license plate registration is still valid. If it isn't, you will automatically receive a fine in the mail.

In 2026, that fine is €180, excluding administrative costs. And if you decide to drive with an expired inspection anyway, the police can also issue you an additional fine.

Even worse: if you are involved in an accident without a valid MOT, it can have consequences for your insurance. Even if the accident is not your fault, you could be held (partially) liable. In short: it is not worth the risk.

What can I do if my car is going to be off the road for a long time?

If your car is going to be stationary for a while and you won't be using it for the time being, you can have it suspended by the RDW.

This means you don't have to pay tax or insurance temporarily, but it also means you are strictly forbidden from driving it or parking it on public roads. Not even in front of your own house. The car must be kept on private property.

How do I know when my car needs an MOT inspection?

The most convenient thing to do is to keep track of the MOT expiry date yourself. The RDW no longer sends out letters, so setting a reminder via email or in your calendar is smart; often, your garage will also send you a reminder.

You can also enter your license plate on the RDW website to find the MOT expiry date. In addition, you will receive a reminder to get your MOT done via mijnoverheid.nl, provided the car is registered in your name.

If you buy through Carvendo, we take care of the MOT.

At Carvendo, we like clarity. No last-minute stress, no fines, no surprises. We always deliver our cars with a new MOT, 12 months of warranty, 12,000 km of maintenance-free driving, and a full tank—it's just that easy.

In short: the MOT might not be a party, but it is a must. A simple check that ensures you can hit the road with confidence. Because safe driving doesn't just start when you turn the ignition; it starts with a car that is in good order.

That is the Carvendo way: smart, practical, and worry-free on the road.