Introduction
Road tax for motorcycles, also known as motor vehicle tax (MRB), is an annual tax motorcyclists must pay for using de public roads. This tax is an important source of revenue for de government en contributes to the maintenance en de improvement of de Dutch infrastructure.
Importance of motor vehicle tax knowledge
de As a motorcyclist, it is crucial to be aware of de regulations surrounding road tax. Here are some reasons why:
- Financial Planning: Knowing de rates helps budget your motorcycle expenses.
- Avoiding fines: Timely payment prevents unexpected fines en additional costs.
- Take advantage of benefits: Some engines qualify for exemptions or lower rates.
- Future planning: Understanding de regulations can help de choose a new engine, such as an electric model with tax incentives.
By being well-informed, you can make smart choices that fit your riding style en budget. Whether you are a daily commuter or an occasional tourer, understanding de motorcycle road tax is essential for every motorcycle enthusiast in the Netherlands.
Road tax for motorcycles: de base
De motor vehicle tax (MRB) for motorcycles in 2025 is an important issue for every motorcyclist in the Netherlands. Let's take a look at de current state of affairs.
Current motor vehicle tax rates in 2024
De MRB for motorcycles is significantly lower than for cars. In 2024, motorcyclists will pay on average between de €20 en €30 per quarter, depending on the weight of your motorcycle. This is a fraction of what car drivers have to pay.
Comparison with car tax
By comparison, for an average passenger car you quickly pay €200 to €400 per quarter in road tax. So the difference is significant, making motorcycling more financially attractive for many people.
How is the rate determined?
The MRB rate for motorcycles is mainly determined by the "empty weight" of de motorcycle. This is the weight of de motorcycle without driver, passenger, luggage or fuel. The heavier de motorcycle, the higher de tax. De rates are divided into weight classes, with each class having a fixed amount per three months.
For de most up-to-date rates en to calculate exactly how much you will have to pay, visit de website of de Tax Office. That way you can be sure there won't be any surprises on your next tax assessment.

Read more: Everything you need to know about motorcycle licenses in the Netherlands
Exemptions en discounts
de As a motorcyclist in the Netherlands, it is important to be aware of de different exemptions en discounts that may apply de road tax. Let's take a look at de main schemes for 2025.
Electric motors: current benefits en future changes
Good news for owners of electric motorcycles: in 2025, they will still be completely exempt from road tax. This makes electric driving not only environmentally friendly, but also financially attractive. Note, however, that this arrangement may change in de future, as de government is considering phasing out de exemption.
Vintage cars: when is a motorcycle exempt from road tax?
Motorcycles aged 40 years en older fall under de oldtimer scheme en are completely exempt from road tax. This is good news for classic motorcycle enthusiasts. Please note that de age is calculated from de date of first admission, not from the year of construction.
De transitional arrangement for motorcycles between 25 en 40 years old
Motorcycles between de 25 en 40 years old are subject to a special transitional arrangement. These motorcycles are eligible for the so-called "quarter rate. This means that you only pay 25% of the normal rate. A nice scheme for owners of youngtimers that are not yet under de full exemption.
de It's important to keep an eye on these schemes at de purchasing a new or used motorcycle. They can make a significant difference in your annual motorcycle costs. For specific advice on helmets en accessories that suit your type of motorcycle, you can always visit specialized stores such as Vespucci.
The quarter rate: an economical option?
The quarter-rate motor vehicle tax is a scheme that can help many motorcyclists save money. But what exactly does this scheme entail en for whom is it of interest?
What is the quarter rate?
The quarter rate is a special arrangement where motorcyclists pay only 25% of the normal road tax rate. This is especially beneficial for owners of motorcycles between de 25 en 40 years old, who are not yet eligible for full exemption.
Conditions for the quarter rate
To take advantage of the quarter rate, your motorcycle must meet de the following requirements:
- De engine must be between de 25 en 40 years old
- De motorcycle must be used recreationally only (not for commuting)
- De engine should not be used in de months of December, January en February
Advantages- en disadvantages
Advantages:
- Substantial savings on road tax
- Ability to own a classic motorcycle at a lower cost
Disadvantages:
- Limited use in de winter months
- Not suitable for daily use
Apply en obligations
You can apply for the quarter rate at de Tax Office. You must confirm annually that you meet de conditions. It is important to adhere to de rules, because if you violate them, you could face a hefty after-tax penalty.
For motorcycle enthusiasts who own or are considering purchasing a classic motorcycle, the quarter rate can be an attractive option to reduce de costs. Just make sure you are well aware of all the conditions de en restrictions before taking advantage of it.

Future developments
As a motorcyclist, it is important not only to look at the present, but also to look ahead to de future. After all, there are some important changes coming up that may affect de motorcycle road tax. Let's take a look at what lies ahead.
Changes to de MRB exemption for electric vehicles
Starting in 2025, de full exemption from motor vehicle tax (MRB) for electric vehicles will be phased out. This includes electric motorcycles. Although de exact details are not yet known, it is likely that electric motorcyclists will have to pay a portion of de MRB in de the future. This may affect de financial attractiveness of electric driving.
De possible introduction of road pricing
Another big change on de horizon is de possible introduction of road pricing in 2030. This system, in which motorists pay per mile driven, could also affect motorcyclists. It is still unclear exactly how this will be applied to motorcycles, but it is certainly something to keep an eye on in de .
What do these changes mean for motorcyclists?
These developments could have major implications for motorcyclists:
- Higher costs for electric motors starting in 2025
- Possibly a completely new way of paying for road use by 2030
- Reconsider de choice between electric en conventional driving
It is important to keep these changes in mind when de purchasing a new motorcycle or making long-term plans for your motorcycle use. Stay on de de latest developments to make informed decisions about your future motorcycling.
Tips to save on motorcycle expenses
As a motorcycle enthusiast, you naturally want to enjoy your two-wheeler as much as possible, without de costs de skyrocketing. Fortunately, there are several ways to save on your motorcycle costs without sacrificing riding enjoyment. Here are some smart tips:
Optimum use of de transitional scheme
If you own a motorcycle between de 25 en 40 years old, you can take advantage of the quarter rate. By only using your motorcycle recreationally en not in de winter months, you save a lot on road tax. Just be sure to adhere to de conditions to avoid retrospective charges.
Winter break insurance
Many insurers offer special motorcycle insurance policies with a winter break. Here you pay less premium in de months when your motorcycle is stationary. This is ideal if you don't ride much in de cold months anyway. Be sure to check de conditions, such as safe storage of your motorcycle.
Other ways to reduce costs
- Regular maintenance: Avoid major repairs by properly maintaining your engine.
- Economical driving: Adjust your driving style for less fuel consumption.
- Compare insurance: Check annually to see if you still have de best deal.
- Carpool on de motorcycle: Share de fuel costs on longer trips.
By being smart about your motorcycle expenses, you'll have more left over for fun rides en maybe even that new helmet you've been looking forward to for so long. Don't forget to regularly check your gear for safety en comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
As a motorcyclist, you probably have questions about de road tax. Here are some frequently asked questions en answers that may help you:
Do I have to pay road tax for a 125cc motorcycle?
Yes, you also have to pay road tax for a 125cc motorcycle. The rate is based on the weight of de motorcycle, not de displacement. Light motorcycles, such as 125cc models, usually fall into de lowest weight class en therefore have a lower rate.
What about de road tax for motorcycles over 40 years old?
Motorcycles older than 40 years are completely exempt from road tax. This oldtimer regulation applies from de date of first admission, not from the year of construction. It is a great scheme for fans of classic motorcycles.
What happens if I forget to apply for the quarter rate or pay late?
If you forget to apply for the quarter rate, you automatically pay the full rate. In case of late payment, de Tax Office can impose a fine. It is therefore important to make your application on time en keep track of your payments. Put a reminder in your calendar not to forget.
Staying well informed on de these regulations will help you be smart about your motorcycle costs. Still have questions about de right helmet for your riding style? De experts at Vespucci are ready to advise you on safe en comfortable options that fit your budget.
Conclusion
Now that we have discussed all aspects of motorcycle road tax in 2024, we can summarize de key points:
- Motorcyclists pay significantly less road tax than motorists, an average of €20-€30 per quarter.
- The rate is determined by the empty weight of de engine.
- Electric motors are currently still exempt, but this may change in de future.
- Vintage cars (40+ years old) are completely exempt from road tax.
- The quarter rate offers an economical option for motorcycles between 25 en 40 years old.
- Future developments such as road pricing may impact motorcycle costs.
- There are several ways to save on motorcycle costs, such as smart use of insurance en regular maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I have to pay road tax if I only use my motorcycle in de summer?
Yes, road tax is due all year, unless you take advantage of de transitional scheme or the quarter rate.
- Can I pay my road tax in installments?
Yes, you can choose to pay monthly, quarterly or annually. Monthly payment is automatic via direct debit.
- What happens if I forget to pay my road tax?
If you pay late, you may be fined. It is wise to set up a direct debit to avoid this.
- Does de oldtimer regulation also apply to imported motorcycles?
Yes, provided de motorcycle is 40 years or older, calculated from de date of first admission.
- How can I check what weight class my motorcycle falls into?
The unladen weight is listed on your registration certificate. With this weight, you can find the correct rate on de website of de Belastingdienst.
- Is there a difference in road tax between provinces?
Yes, counties may charge a surcharge on de road tax. Check de rates in your county for de exact amounts.
- Can I object to de amount of my road tax?
Yes, if you think an error has been made in de calculation, you can file an objection with de Tax Office.
By staying well informed about these aspects of road tax, you as a motorcyclist can make smart choices en potentially save money. Remember that in addition to de tax, de proper protective gear is essential for safe motorcycling.