Since July 1, 2025, an electric scooter in the Netherlands is subject to license plate registration. It falls under the category special moped and must be registered in the Dutch vehicle register before you may legally use it on public roads. In this article: how that registration works, what it costs, and where the difference lies between a type-approved model and an individual unit.
Last update: July 2026. Source: RDW.
Two routes to a license plate
Which route applies to you depends on the model.
Route 1: model with national type approval
If the model as a whole is approved — such as the SELANA Alpha, for which we obtained the first national type approval for an e-scooter in the Netherlands — the RDW does not need to assess your unit separately. Registration goes through us: you receive the license plate card and the plate, and can insure it immediately. No photo session, no individual application.
Route 2: approved model that you register yourself
If you ride one of the previously approved models (Yedoo Mezeq, Kickbike Luxury, Kickbike Fat Max, Kickbike Cruise) and your unit is not yet registered, you submit the application yourself to the RDW. Until July 1, 2026, this cost €18 via the online portal. That transitional arrangement has expired: the RDW must now assess every unregistered vehicle individually, and the application starts at €116.55. More on this in our article about the expired July 1, 2026 deadline.
For a non-approved model — Xiaomi, Segway, Ninebot and the rest — there is no route at all. Without type approval, you will not get a license plate, at any price. We explain why those brands are not legal here.
Checklist: what do you need for the road?
- License plate card — the official proof of registration with the RDW.
- Blue license plate — physically mounted on the rear.
- Third-party liability insurance — linked to the license plate, legally required.
2026 registration cost overview
| Component | Cost | With a SELANA Alpha |
| RDW registration (type-approved model) | Via the supplier | Included — we arrange it |
| RDW registration (individual application after July 1, 2026) | from €116.55 | Not applicable |
| Physical license plate | approx. €15 – €25 | Included |
| National type approval | Manufacturer costs | Included |
| Third-party liability insurance | from €6 per month | To be arranged via ANWB |
What does it cost if you ride without a license plate?
Riding a non-approved or unregistered e-scooter is not only risky, but also expensive:
- €290 for riding without a valid license plate or approval
- €490 for riding without third-party liability insurance
- Confiscation of the vehicle in case of repeat offenses, tampering, or endangerment
- No insurance coverage in the event of an accident — you are personally liable for the other party's damages
The full overview of fines can be found in our guide on e-scooter fines.
Requirements for the license plate
Since the switch from the old insurance stickers to official license plates, strict criteria apply to light electric vehicles:
- Design: the plate is blue and smaller than the standard moped plate.
- Placement: the RDW requires mounting on the rear in a strictly vertical position.
Frequently asked questions
How long does registration take?
For a type-approved model, it is included as part of delivery. For an individual application after July 1, 2026, it takes longer because the RDW has to assess the vehicle.
Can I transfer the license plate upon sale?
Yes. Just like with a moped, the registration transfers to the new owner. When buying a used scooter, always ask for the registration certificate.
Do I need a driver's license or helmet?
No, for neither. However, a minimum age of 16 applies. The complete rules can be found in electric scooter rules 2026.
Which models are actually approved?
Five, as of July 2026. We compare them side by side in our comparison of RDW-approved e-scooters.
Conclusion
The license plate route is simple if the model is type-approved, and has become considerably more expensive if you have to register it yourself. Ready to legally hit the road? Check out the SELANA Alpha or plan a test ride.
Further reading on legal e-scootering
- All RDW-approved e-scooters compared (2026)
- Why your Xiaomi or Segway is not legal in the Netherlands
- E-scooter license plate: July 1, 2026 deadline passed
- Company e-scooter: does it fall under the bicycle plan?
- Buying a legal electric scooter: complete guide 2026
- Electric scooter rules in the Netherlands 2026
- E-scooter fines: rates & how to avoid them
- Insuring an e-scooter: costs, coverage & steps
- E-scooter vs e-bike for commuting
