Decision Tree: Registration and License Plates for Agricultural and Construction Vehicles

License Plate Requirement in Effect Since January 1, 2025: What’s the Situation?

As of January 1, 2025, the license plate requirement for agricultural vehicles and self-propelled equipment has been further tightened. This change affected not only farmers and contractors but also manufacturers, dealers, and users of these vehicles.

Since that date, every self-driving vehicle traveling on public roads must be equipped with a license plate. This applies regardless of the vehicle’s design speed. This requirement followed the vehicle registration regulation that has been in effect since 2021 and is part of a broader effort to harmonize regulations within the European Union.

Vehicles can be registered with the RDW. After registration, you will receive a certificate of registration and a registration code. With the certificate of registration, you can then apply for an official yellow GAIK license plate at an RDW-approved company.

There are still a few exceptions to the license plate requirement. It is also important to be fully aware of the rules regarding white temporary plates, mandatory insurance, and cross-border traffic with Germany and Belgium.

Driving an agricultural vehicle without the required license plate may result in a fine. Even for vehicles subject to mandatory WAM insurance, it remains important that the insurance is properly arranged and registered.

Would you like to check whether your vehicle is subject to registration or license plate requirements? If so, use the decision tree for agricultural and construction vehicle registration and license plate requirements.