Mandatory inspection, professional check – your car safely on the road
The MOT (Ministry of Transport test) is a mandatory technical inspection that focuses on your car's safety, the environment and the accuracy of your vehicle registration. At Autobest, our certified inspector carries out the MOT accurately, so you know for sure that your car meets all legal requirements. And if something isn't right, we can fix it for you immediately.
During the MOT, our inspector checks your car on all components that directly affect road safety. Nothing escapes his expert eye:
In addition, the inspector checks whether your car corresponds with the technical data registered with the RDW. Everything must be correct, otherwise you won't get MOT approval.
The MOT inspection isn't the same for every car. The interval depends on the age of your car and the type of fuel. Below you'll find an overview:
A new petrol car must be inspected for the first time after 4 years. After that, a 2-year interval applies until the car is 8 years old. From that point, the MOT is mandatory annually.
For electric cars, the same rules apply as for petrol cars: the first MOT after 4 years, then every 2 years until the car is 8 years old, and then annually. At Autobest, you're also at the right place for your EV.
Diesel cars must have their first MOT after 3 years and then annually. Since January 1, 2023, the presence and operation of the particulate filter is also checked with a particle counter for diesel cars. This is an additional environmental check.
Do you drive on LPG? Then the same rules apply as for diesel: first MOT after 3 years, then annually.
For petrol commercial vehicles, the same rules apply as for petrol passenger cars (4 years, then 2-yearly, from 8 years annually). Commercial vehicles on diesel or LPG must have their first inspection after 3 years and then annually. Different rules apply for heavier commercial vehicles – check the RDW website for more info.
Different rules apply for cars registered by the RDW before 2005. These cars must be inspected annually, regardless of fuel type. Check the RDW website for details.
Important to know: the MOT is a snapshot. The fact that your car is approved today doesn't mean everything will remain fine for the rest of the year. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your car safe and reliable.
We therefore recommend combining the MOT with a minor or major service. This way you'll never face unpleasant surprises and you're often better off financially too. Moreover, you prevent your car from breaking down after the MOT due to a wear problem that wasn't serious enough yet for a rejection point.
Plan in time
Did you know you can have your car inspected up to 2 months before the expiry date, without the new inspection date being brought forward? This prevents you from being in a time crunch or driving around with an expired MOT.
Check your expiry date
The RDW sends you a reminder letter 6 weeks in advance, but you remain responsible yourself. Driving without a valid MOT is punishable and can lead to hefty fines. In case of an accident, it can also mean your insurer won't pay out. Check your expiry date via the RDW website with your license plate.
Going on holiday with the car?
Make sure you have a valid MOT during your holiday and take the MOT inspection report with you. During a check abroad, you must be able to show this. Does your MOT expire during your holiday? Then have the inspection carried out before departure. In most European countries, you can't have an MOT done (this is only possible in Spain and Belgium).
No, you don't have to. Autobest is an RDW-certified inspection station and has all the knowledge, equipment and documentation for every car brand. Whether you have a Volkswagen, Toyota, Tesla or Nissan – we inspect them all. And if something needs to be replaced, we offer you the choice of original parts or high-quality Bosch parts at an attractive price.
Does our inspector find one or more rejection points? Then you have two months to have the defects repaired. During this period, your car may be parked on public roads, but you may only drive it on the way to the garage.
At Autobest, we can often carry out the necessary repairs immediately. We always consult with you first about what's needed and what it will cost. This way you can quickly get back on the road with an approved car.
You can easily check the expiry date via the RDW website by entering your license plate. The RDW also sends you a reminder 6 weeks in advance by post, via MijnOverheid or by email. Note: you remain responsible yourself for timely inspection.
In the Netherlands, you don't need to have the inspection report with you, but abroad you do. Have you lost the report? Then you can request a copy from us or from the RDW for a fee.
Autobest is an RDW-certified inspection station. We have all the necessary equipment, knowledge and experience to professionally inspect your car – whatever the brand or model. Petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid: with us your car is in expert hands.
Want to make an MOT appointment? Schedule online via our website or call us at 0499 - 390 475. We ensure your car is inspected quickly and carefully, so you can get back on the road carefree.
