5 Ways to Register Your Bicycle Online in the Netherlands

Officially registering your bicycle in your name can prevent a lot of hassle, especially in case of theft or when purchasing a second-hand bike. In the Netherlands, there are several online options to register your bicycle, but which one suits your situation best? Below you'll find the five main ways to register your bicycle online, from free platforms to mandatory registration for speed pedelecs.

1. BIKEBAZE – Free Bicycle Registration with Proof of Ownership

BIKEBAZE offers a free online platform to register your bicycle in your name by linking your frame number to your personal details. You immediately receive a digital proof of ownership, allowing you to always demonstrate that the bicycle is yours. By combining the platform with a SafeTag sticker, which you place visibly on your bicycle, you also increase deterrence against theft. The platform works internationally, makes theft reporting simple, and promotes community-driven prevention and recovery.

2. Fietsenregister.nl – Paid National Option (NOT OPERATIONAL ANYMORE)

This platform has been active in the Netherlands for years and offers registration for a one-time contribution of €10. You enter datails like your frame number, brand, and colour and receive a confirmation. Registration is easy to do online and primarily helps with recovering stolen bicycles. As this database is not accessible anymore, the only public database for regstering and checking frame numbers is BIKEBAZE.

3. Brand Registration via Manufacturers (Batavus, Gazelle)

Many bicycle brands, such as Batavus and Gazelle, offer their own online registration portal where you can register your bicycle in your name. This is useful for warranty management and to link your bicycle to your customer account. Registration is free and often happens automatically when purchasing at a physical shop, but you can also do it yourself at home via the brand website. Note: these registrations are linked to the brand and are not always publicly searchable by third parties. A bicycle registration is only effective if you can look up the frame number in a public database.

4. RDW Registration for Speed Pedelecs

Do you own a speed pedelec (electric bicycle up to 45 km/h)? Then RDW registration is mandatory. You do this online with DigiD and a registration code. Your bicycle receives a licence plate, and you receive a registration card. The costs are €13.10 for the transfer plus any costs for the registration card. This does not apply to regular electric bicycles or classic bicycles – only to vehicles that fall under the moped category.

5. Stop Heling and RDW Bicycle Theft Register – Check Tool, Not Preventive Registration

Stop Heling and the RDW bicycle theft register are primarily intended to check whether a bicycle is registered as stolen. These platforms are not registration tools for prevention, but do help when buying a second-hand bicycle. Always use them to check the frame number before buying a bicycle from someone.

Conclusion

Want to register your bicycle in your name in the Netherlands? Then choose an online bicycle registration platform like BIKEBAZE for free, simple registration with proof of ownership and visible theft prevention. For speed pedelecs, RDW registration is mandatory. Always make sure you know the frame number and keep your purchase receipt – that's the best proof of ownership.