Moped with a yellow license plate

Difference Between Blue and Yellow Scooter License Plates

A scooter can have either a yellow or a blue license plate. The main difference between the two is the maximum speed and where they’re allowed on the road. However, for both, you must have at least an AM driver’s license and you must always wear a helmet. In addition, in the Netherlands, you’re required to have at least moped insurance with third-party liability coverage for your scooter, regardless of the color of the license plate.

Yellow license plate

A scooter with a yellow license plate is also known as a moped. Mopeds with a yellow license plate are limited to a maximum speed of 45 km per hour. With a maximum speed of 45 kilometers per hour, a scooter is equivalent to a moped. Mopeds must generally ride on the roadway among cars, unless otherwise indicated.

Blue license plate

A scooter with a blue license plate is also known as a moped. You’re allowed to ride a moped at a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour. Until January 1, 2023, helmets weren’t required for mopeds. Nowadays, you must always wear a helmet when riding a moped. Light mopeds are allowed to use the bike path. If there is no bike path, they may also ride on the roadway, but even then, the speed limit is 25 kilometers per hour. In some cities, such as Amsterdam, light mopeds are required to ride on the roadway instead of the bike path.

Apply for a yellow license plate

To apply for a yellow license plate for your moped (or a light moped that is being converted into a moped), you must have it inspected by the RDW . During this inspection, officials will verify whether the moped complies with the regulations for driving on public roads. They will also check the moped’s technical condition.

First, schedule an inspection appointment. Then you can apply for a one-day license plate. With a one-day license plate, you can drive to the inspection station on the day of the inspection.

Within 5 business days after the inspection, you’ll receive the registration card by mail. One business day later, you’ll receive a letter with the registration code. As soon as the license plate is registered in your name, you must comply with the obligations of a license plate holder. You must purchase moped insurance and ensure that your moped has a yellow license plate. You must purchase this license plate yourself from a license plate manufacturer approved by the RDW. Please note: prices may vary by manufacturer, as they are free to set their own prices.