Kentekenregister

Kentekenregister is the central Dutch database that records information about motor vehicles and their license plates. It links each kenteken (license plate) to a specific vehicle identification number (VIN) and to registration data such as the date of first registration and the registered owner. The register is maintained by the Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer (RDW).

The contents of the kentekenregister typically include license plate numbers, VIN, make, model, model year, and other technical specifications, as well as registration status and dates of ownership changes. It also records regulatory data such as inspection status and compliance with vehicle-related rules. The RDW uses the register to manage registration processes and to support enforcement, road safety, taxation, insurance, and accident research.

Access to the kentekenregister is governed by strict privacy rules. Access is limited to authorized institutions and professionals, such as police, tax authorities, and vehicle service providers. Some basic vehicle information—such as make, model, year, and registration status—may be queried by the public through official RDW channels, while sensitive data like owner details are protected under privacy laws, including the GDPR. Individuals can request access to or correction of their own data through proper procedures.

Historically, the kentekenregister is part of the Netherlands’ broader framework of vehicle registries administered by the RDW, integrated with other data systems to support transport policy, safety, and law enforcement. It serves as the authoritative source for vehicle identity and registration information within the Dutch motor vehicle sector.