Do you own a car in the Netherlands? Then you are probably familiar with the annual APK inspection. This is a legally required inspection in Europe to promote road safety and protect the environment. If your car is subject to an APK, you are not allowed to drive without a valid APK.

But what exactly is an APK? APK stands for General Periodic Inspection. This inspection prevents dangerous situations with vehicles that are too unsafe to participate in traffic. Your vehicle can be inspected at the RDW-approved garages and inspection stations in the Netherlands. The APK rules in the Netherlands require that every car must be inspected at least once a year. There are two exceptions to this rule:

– A car that is suspended does not have to be inspected
– New cars do not have to be inspected         

Postponing the APK inspection is not possible. If you continue to drive without a valid APK, you risk a fine of €140. In addition, there is a chance that any damage and injury will not be reimbursed by the insurer.

The APK is carried out in the Netherlands by an authorized car mechanic.
If you do not agree with the result of an inspection, it is possible to object.
It is possible that you lose the APK inspection report, in this case, it’s possible to request a copy for € 16.