Rules · as of November 2026
Road tax for your classic motorcycle (NL)
When is your classic exempt from Dutch road tax, what is the transitional scheme, and what changes in 2028? Everything in one place.
Your classic motorcycle is registered, so in principle you pay motorrijtuigenbelasting, also called road tax. But exceptions apply to old vehicles. Which one applies to you depends on the date of first registration (DET). It is on your registration certificate.
40 years or older: no road tax
If first registration was 40 or more years ago, your motorcycle is exempt. You pay nothing. This happens automatically: the Belastingdienst looks at the DET. Until 2014 the limit was 25 years; it then went to 40 years.
So for almost all motorcycles on this site, built up to 1985, this already applies or soon will. You do still have to insure the bike, and it must be roadworthy.
Not yet 40, but from before 1988: the transitional scheme
Was your motorcycle first put into use before 1 January 1988, but first registration was less than 40 years ago? Then you can use the transitional scheme. You pay a quarter of the normal rate, for petrol. In 2026 that was at most €158 a year, says the ANWB.
- Apply yourself. The scheme is not automatic. You register with the Belastingdienst and pay in advance for the whole year.
- Pay on time. For 2026 the money had to be in by 31 December 2025. If you are late, you get a bill at the normal rate.
- Winter stop. In December, January and February you may not ride én may not park on the public road. If you do, you risk an additional assessment with a hefty fine.
- Petrol only. The discount does not apply to diesel or LPG.
What changes in 2028?
From 1 January 2028 vehicles built in 1988 and later will no longer be exempt automatically when they turn 40. That law has been passed. What is already exempt, and everything from before 1988, stays exempt.
Note: the government’s explanation only mentions cars. We have not yet seen in black and white whether it works exactly the same for motorcycles. If you have a motorcycle from 1988 or later, such as a Cagiva Mito or a Ducati Paso, check with the Belastingdienst.
In short
- First registration 40 or more years ago: no road tax.
- In use before 1988, not yet 40: quarter rate via the transitional scheme, no riding in December, January and February.
- Built in 1988 or later: from 2028 no longer exempt automatically.
- In doubt? Do the check on the Belastingdienst website, or call them.
Want to insure your classic as a classic too? With the ANWB that is possible from 20 years old, if the motorcycle is your second vehicle and you ride less than 7,500 km a year. For a payout after theft or total loss you need a valuation report no more than three years old.
SourcesANWB: road tax for classicsBelastingdienst: bill for the 2026 classic transitional schemeOndernemersplein: road tax for classics from after 1988ANWB: classic motorcycle insurance