License Plate and Ownership: What You Need to Know

Questioner

Is the registration of a license plate also proof of ownership? If yes, why and if no, why not?

Lawyer

No, because a car/motorcycle/moped is not a registered property. The RDW database is therefore purely administrative (and therefore not public). The owner of a vehicle is deemed to be the owner, unless evidence shows otherwise.

Questioner

thank you for your answer. Should I conclude from your information that if the 'thief' steals a license plate and the vehicle and I have no 'proof of purchase' (or other proof that I legitimately came into possession of the vehicle) then I will lose the vehicle. The judge could then rule in favor of the 'thief'? Surprising!! Because I think that almost no vehicle owner realizes this.

Lawyer

In black and white, your statement is correct. However, practice will show otherwise because the entire fact-comex will show that you are the owner (a purchase receipt is only an example and part of the total evidence).