kentekenchecks

Kentekenchecks are inquiries into the registration status and characteristics of a motor vehicle in the Netherlands, conducted by using the vehicle’s license plate (kenteken). The checks are performed through official channels, notably the Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer (RDW), and through private portals that aggregate RDW data. A kentekencheck queries the vehicle’s registration file and returns information about the car’s identity and status.

The information typically includes the make and model, construction year, first registration date, fuel type, and engine power, along with other technical specifications. It also confirms whether the license plate is currently valid and the vehicle’s registration status (active, suspended, or otherwise). In addition, some checks indicate whether the vehicle has any outstanding issues such as recalls, or if the vehicle has been reported stolen or exported. Some providers supplement official data with additional history information, such as mileage records or ownership history, though the availability and reliability of this data vary.

Uses of kentekenchecks include verification by prospective buyers before purchase, verification by sellers to ensure accurate advertising, and due diligence by insurers or dealers. Limitations include that not all information may be complete or up to date, private providers may rely on varying data sources with different privacy constraints, and mileage or ownership history may be incomplete. Official RDW data remains the most authoritative source for vehicle registration information.