The vehicle registration certificate is a crucial document that shows a vehicle is officially registered and meets legal requirements. But what happens if you go on the road without this document? For example, can you drive without a vehicle registration certificate? In this blog, we answer that question.
What is the vehicle registration certificate?
The RDW issues a registration certificate for every licence plate. This contains details such as the licence plate and the vehicle's information. You will also find the date the licence plate was issued and the date the vehicle was registered. Furthermore, you will find on here if your car has a trailer may tow. A registration certificate is a credit card-sized plastic card and an assignment code. Before 1 January 2014, the registration certificate consisted of a three-part paper document: the vehicle registration certificate (Part IA), the assignment certificate (Part IB) and the transfer certificate (Part II).
Can you drive without a vehicle registration certificate?
When you go out in your car, you must always be in possession of a valid vehicle registration document. If you do not have it with you and are stopped by the police, you will receive a fine of approximately €50. Whether you have a card as a registration document or the paper registration cards from before January 1st, 2014, you must be able to present this when requested.
Where do you keep your registration document safe?
A vehicle registration document is therefore important, but where can you safely store it so that you don't lose it and always have it with you? Many people choose to keep the card or paper registration documents in the car. However, this is not advisable, because if your car is stolen, you will also immediately lose the registration document. Especially the current registration documents, which are as large as a credit card, are better kept in your wallet or a cardholder.
How long can you drive without a vehicle registration certificate?
After transferring ownership of your car, you won't immediately have your vehicle registration certificate in hand. As the new registration card is sent by post, this can also take some time. In such cases, you are allowed to drive your car for up to two weeks without your registration certificate. This only applies to domestic journeys, as for international travel... Abroad Will you then get a fine.
Do you need to be able to show the registration code or transfer certificate?
When you receive your vehicle registration certificate, you are always given a unique code, better known as the registration code. You don't need to carry this code with you at all times. With paper registration certificates, you received a transfer certificate. You don't need to carry this either. You only need the transfer certificate and the registration code when selling your vehicle, or for suspension, export, or scrapping.
Can you drive without a number plate?
You may not drive on the road without a number plate. If you do drive on the road without a number plate, you risk a fine. It does not matter whether your plate has been stolen or lost. Whether you drive with or without a number plate, you will pay a fine of approximately £140. A number plate must be visible at all times, meaning that damaged or illegible number plates will also be penalised. Vehicle registration You find them everywhere these days, so it's highly likely you'll get caught. Even if you want to give it a go.
