01Distinguish APK from an RDW vehicle inspection
APK (periodic technical inspection) checks specified road-safety, environmental and registration requirements for vehicles subject to the rule. An RDW inspection can be a separate procedure for an imported, modified or otherwise specially assessed vehicle. Use the RDW guidance to identify which appointment applies; a garage APK cannot replace an RDW decision when one is required.
APK is also not an independent pre-purchase condition check. A car can pass APK while still having wear, maintenance needs or other defects outside the statutory inspection points. Arrange a separate purchase inspection when you need a broader assessment.
02Check the deadline yourself
The inspection interval depends on the vehicle and its first registration details. Check the exact due date in the RDW registration information instead of relying on a generic age rule, an old reminder or the previous owner’s statement. The registered owner remains responsible even when no reminder arrives, and RDW does not grant postponement.
You may have the vehicle inspected up to two months before the expiry date without losing the existing expiry month. Book early enough to leave time for repairs and a reinspection.
03Book with an approved inspection station
Arrange the APK at an RDW-approved inspection station and ask what its inspection fee covers. The station checks the vehicle against the statutory requirements and records the result. Repair work is separate unless you agree otherwise; ask for a quote before authorising repairs.
The station must give you an inspection report, including when the vehicle is rejected. If an RDW appointment is needed for import or another special case, follow that process and bring the requested vehicle and documents. Do not book a standard APK as a substitute for an inspection that RDW requires.
04Act immediately after a rejection
Keep the report and review every rejection and advisory point. A rejection before the old expiry date does not by itself move that date forward, but RDW warns that the vehicle no longer meets the technical requirements: the police can fine you and an insurer may refuse a claim after an accident. Do not treat the remaining date as permission to keep driving; arrange repair and reinspection.
If you disagree with the rejection, say so immediately while the vehicle is still at the station. Ask the inspector to request an RDW reinspection, and do not move or repair the vehicle before RDW assesses it. This immediate route requires the APK report; a later repair or departure can make that reinspection impossible.
