Starting July 1, 2026, the Netherlands will introduce a kilometer charge for heavy trucks. This has caused concern among owners of larger motorhomes in recent months, as many modern motorhomes weigh more than 3.5 metric tons. However, there is good news: in principle, motorhomes will remain exempt from the new charge. It is important, though, to verify that your vehicle is properly registered and to determine whether an exemption notice is required.
It's not the weight that counts, but the vehicle category
The Dutch truck toll applies to vehicles in categories N2 and N3, i.e., trucks with a technically permitted mass of more than 3,500 kilograms. For recreational vehicles, however, it is not the weight that is decisive, but the official vehicle registration. If the vehicle is registered as a camper or motorhome, it is exempt from the per-kilometer toll, even if it weighs more than 3.5 metric tons.
Also important for Belgian motorhome owners
For Belgian owners of heavy motorhomes, little will change in practice. Anyone traveling to the Netherlands with a properly registered motorhome does not have to pay a kilometer charge. However, there is an important distinction. For foreign motorhomes weighing more than 3.5 metric tons, the Netherlands has a system requiring that the exemption be registered in advance. This ensures the vehicle is correctly identified as a motorhome and helps you avoid potential problems or unjustified charges.
In addition, various industry organizations recommend carefully checking the vehicle documents, especially for converted vehicles or RVs built on a truck chassis. In such cases, the official vehicle category may determine eligibility for the exemption.
What will change starting July 1?
The new truck toll in the Netherlands replaces the Eurovignette. From now on, trucks will pay per kilometer driven on virtually all highways and on a number of provincial and municipal roads. The rates depend on the vehicle’s weight and emissions class. The revenue will be used for investments in infrastructure and to make freight transport more sustainable.
What should you do if you own a motorhome that weighs more than 3.5 metric tons?
For most motorhome owners, there’s no reason to panic, but a quick check beforehand can prevent a lot of worries. First, check whether your motorhome is officially registered as a camper van or a motorhome. After all, it’s the vehicle category—not the weight—that determines whether you’re eligible for an exemption. Also, check the information on your vehicle registration certificate. This is especially important for converted vehicles or RVs based on a truck chassis.
If you own a foreign motorhome weighing more than 3.5 metric tons, it’s a good idea to check well in advance whether an exemption notification is required. By applying for this in advance, your vehicle will be properly recognized within the Dutch system, and you’ll avoid potential administrative issues.
It’s best to do this well in advance of your departure, so that everything is in order when you enter the Netherlands. Be sure to carry your vehicle documents with you at all times during your trip.
Travel to the Netherlands Worry-Free
For owners of properly registered motorhomes, therefore, little will change. The Dutch kilometer charge is intended for trucks, not for motorhomes. Anyone who checks their documents and, if necessary, applies for an exemption in a timely manner can continue to enjoy a vacation in the Netherlands without additional costs even after July 1, 2026.
Step-by-Step Guide!
What should you do if you own a motorhome that weighs more than 3.5 metric tons?
1. Check whether your vehicle is officially registered as a camper van or motorhome.
2. Check whether your RV is covered by the Dutch exemption program.
3. Report the exemption in a timely manner if required.
4. Be sure to bring your vehicle documents with you on your trip.
5. Enjoy a carefree vacation in the Netherlands.
Where do you apply for the exemption?
Owners of motorhomes with foreign license plates can easily apply for an exemption online via the Dutch truck toll website. The procedure is free and prevents the vehicle from being incorrectly classified as a truck subject to the toll.