Norway – Buying or Importing a Car

How do I buy a new car in Norway as a foreigner?

Norway’s new car market has a highly distinctive character. In 2024, fully electric vehicles accounted for 88.9% of new car sales in the country, a figure that climbed to 97% in April 2025. Anyone planning to purchase a new vehicle from a dealership will encounter a market overwhelmingly orientated towards electric models, with generous government incentives reinforcing that trend.

When acquiring cars or other vehicles in Norway, a one-off registration tax generally applies. For vehicles purchased new from a dealer, this registration tax, the scrap deposit tax, and VAT are all incorporated into the advertised sale price. Unlike in some other countries where taxes are added separately at the point of purchase, the price displayed at a Norwegian dealership is typically the complete, all-inclusive figure.

Certain vehicle types qualify for a reduction or full exemption from the one-off registration tax — electric cars being a prime example. This is a central reason why EVs hold such a dominant position in Norway’s new vehicle market. It is always worth verifying what exemptions currently apply with the Norwegian Tax Administration before committing to a purchase, as the relevant tax rules are subject to regular revision.

Foreign nationals must satisfy specific documentation requirements before they can buy and register a vehicle in Norway. Most fundamentally, you will need a Norwegian Personal Identification Number — either a D-number or an F-number. This identifier is indispensable for vehicle registration and obtaining insurance. A D-number may be adequate for shorter stays, while a full F-number is necessary for longer periods of residence. Applications can be submitted through the Norwegian Tax Administration.

In addition to your identification number, you will ordinarily need your passport or national identity document, a valid driving licence, and evidence of your Norwegian address. Proof of residency or a current visa is also crucial for insurance purposes, as insurers may decline to provide cover without it.

Bear in mind that a Norwegian personal number is required not only to register a vehicle but also to obtain a car loan. Financing is available through banks or via dealership arrangements, and it is worth comparing interest rates across different lenders. Expats who have not yet built a Norwegian credit record may find their financing options initially constrained, and some prefer to buy outright or arrange finance through an international banking relationship.

How do I buy a used car in Norway?

Norway has an active and well-structured second-hand car market. The primary destination for used vehicle listings is FINN.no, under the ‘Bil’ section, where you can browse offerings from private sellers and dealerships alike. Prices are negotiable with both types of seller.

Before proceeding with any purchase, it is essential to carry out thorough due diligence on the vehicle’s background. This means verifying its registration status, checking for outstanding finance, unpaid fines, and any accident history. The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Statens vegvesen) provides an online vehicle information service at vegvesen.no, where you can look up technical details, EU inspection history, and registration status for any Norwegian-registered vehicle using its number plate. This is conceptually similar to the DVLA’s vehicle enquiry service in the UK or a PPSR check in Australia.

For used vehicles already registered in Norway, neither the one-off registration tax nor VAT is charged again — only a transfer fee applies. This makes purchasing a locally registered second-hand vehicle considerably cheaper than importing from abroad, and it is frequently the most cost-effective route for expats arriving in Norway.

Once the sale price is agreed, the change of ownership must be formally recorded. This is handled through a digital procedure called the Salgsmelding, which requires authentication via BankID, Buypass, or Commfides. Both buyer and seller must complete an electronic signature. Where digital signing is not practicable, the parties can attend a Statens vegvesen office in person.

Following the transfer, the re-registration fee (Omregistreringsavgift) must be paid online. Ensure that you have arranged valid insurance before taking the vehicle on the road, as this is a legal obligation at all times. Consult the Norwegian Tax Administration website for the current fee schedule, as rates are updated from time to time.

Can I import a vehicle into Norway, and how does the process work?

Importing a privately owned vehicle into Norway is permitted, but it is a multi-stage procedure involving three separate government bodies: Norwegian Customs (Tolletaten), the Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten), and the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Statens vegvesen).

As a general principle, vehicles must be registered in the country where their owner resides. Individuals who are permanently resident in Norway are not permitted to drive a foreign-registered vehicle within the country. If you bring a foreign-registered car or other vehicle when you relocate to Norway on a permanent basis, that vehicle must be formally imported and all applicable duties and taxes paid. This obligation applies irrespective of your nationality or the country you are coming from.

One point that frequently surprises newcomers: unlike many European countries that operate “removal goods” schemes allowing relocating residents to import personal vehicles free of duty, Norway offers no such concession. Whether you are moving for employment, family, or personal reasons, your privately owned vehicle will attract exactly the same taxes and import charges as any commercially imported car. Always confirm the current rules with Norwegian Customs before making any firm plans, as policies can change.

Norway drives on the right and uses left-hand drive vehicles as the norm, consistent with continental European practice. Right-hand drive vehicles can technically be imported, but they must satisfy all Norwegian technical standards and pass a first-time approval inspection. Modifications may be necessary in practice, and RHD vehicles tend to be harder to insure and resell. Contact the Norwegian Public Roads Administration to clarify the specific technical requirements for your vehicle before proceeding.

The import process consists of the following steps:

1. Check technical requirements: The vehicle must pass a technical inspection at one of Statens vegvesen’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing Offices (DVLOs). Get in touch with a DVLO in advance to establish what technical standards your specific vehicle must meet to gain approval in Norway.
2. Check export requirements: Contact the relevant authorities in the country where the vehicle is registered to find out whether any export restrictions or clearance procedures apply, and confirm that the vehicle has valid plates and insurance cover for driving to and within Norway.
3. Cross the border at a manned crossing: On arriving in Norway, you must enter through one of Norwegian Customs’ staffed border offices and declare yourself in the red channel. A list of customs offices is available at toll.no.
4. Obtain a transit declaration: If the overseas customs authorities have not issued a transit declaration, Norwegian Customs will provide one at the border. This document authorises use of the foreign-registered vehicle from the border crossing to your local customs office.
5. Customs clearance and VAT payment: As a private individual importing a vehicle, you must first declare it to Norwegian Customs and pay the applicable VAT. You then pay the vehicle import duty to the Norwegian Tax Administration.
6. Technical approval: Statens vegvesen’s DVLOs approve vehicles brought into Norway once customs clearance and VAT payment have been completed. This approval must be obtained before the Tax Administration can calculate the one-off registration fee and wreck deposit. Every imported vehicle must receive this approval before it can be registered on Norwegian plates.
7. Pay one-off registration tax and scrap deposit: Once the vehicle has been approved at a DVLO, you must settle the one-off registration tax and the scrap deposit tax. In most cases, this payment can be made immediately after approval using the Norwegian Tax Administration’s electronic payment system.
8. Register the vehicle: With all taxes paid and approval secured, you can complete vehicle registration with Statens vegvesen and receive Norwegian number plates.

You may appoint a freight forwarding agent to handle customs clearance on your behalf, which can be a practical option when arriving by ferry. Contact the ferry operator for guidance on available services and applicable charges.

Key documents you will need include: an invoice or purchase agreement showing the actual purchase price; any freight invoice and documentation covering other costs incurred before the vehicle arrived in Norway (such as insurance); the original foreign registration document and any Certificate of Conformity (COC); and, if the vehicle was not purchased recently, an up-to-date valuation from an authorised dealership in the country of origin.

What are the costs involved in importing a car to Norway?

The tax burden on imported vehicles in Norway is considerable and represents one of the most critical factors to weigh when deciding whether to bring a car from overseas or purchase one locally. The costs fall into several distinct categories.

VAT (as of 2025): A rate of 25% VAT applies to the declared value of the vehicle, including the freight and insurance costs associated with transporting it to Norway, plus greenhouse gas tax for the vehicle. Electric vehicles are also subject to VAT, but only on any portion of the total value that exceeds NOK 500,000. For example, if a vehicle’s combined value including freight and insurance comes to NOK 600,000, VAT is charged only on NOK 100,000. Always verify the current VAT rate and applicable thresholds with Norwegian Customs before importing.

Import duty (as of 2025): Qualifying battery electric passenger vehicles currently attract 0% import duty, representing a meaningful saving compared to conventional vehicles, which are subject to 8.9% import duty alongside full 25% VAT without the same concessions. Norway’s progressive EV duty framework is currently extended through 2026 and subject to periodic renewal by EFTA authorities. Confirm the applicable duty rate for your specific vehicle type with Norwegian Customs before proceeding.

One-off registration tax: This charge is calculated by the Norwegian Tax Administration based on the vehicle’s weight, CO₂ emissions, engine type, and NOₓ emissions. Separate taxes apply specifically to the import and registration of vehicles in Norway. If you are importing, you can estimate the relevant charges using the calculator provided by the Norwegian Tax Administration.

Valuation basis: For a recently purchased vehicle, the customs value will be set equal to the purchase price plus freight and insurance costs. If you have owned the vehicle for some time in another country, you should obtain a formal valuation from the brand’s authorised dealership in that country so that VAT can be calculated on this assessed value together with the relevant transport and insurance costs.

Compliance and technical modification costs: Should your vehicle not fully conform to Norwegian technical standards, you may face additional costs to bring it into compliance before it can be approved. These can include adjustments to lighting, speedometer calibration, or mandatory safety equipment. Contact a DVLO in advance to identify exactly what modifications your vehicle may require.

Shipping costs: These will vary considerably depending on the country of origin, the chosen shipping method, and the vehicle’s dimensions. For vehicles driven overland from Sweden, Denmark, or Germany, fixed-rate freight cost calculations may be applied for customs valuation purposes.

Unlike many other countries, Norway grants no duty-free concession to residents relocating with their vehicle — the same taxes and duties apply as for any commercially imported car. Given the scale of these costs, many people who move to Norway find it more economical to sell their vehicle before leaving and buy a replacement locally. Use the Norwegian Tax Administration’s online duty calculator to estimate the specific charges for your vehicle, and check current rates with Tolletaten (Norwegian Customs).

How do I register a vehicle in Norway?

The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Statens vegvesen) is the authority responsible for vehicle approval and registration in Norway. Whether you have acquired a car locally or brought one in from abroad, registration must be completed before you may legally drive on Norwegian plates.

For a locally purchased second-hand vehicle, the process is primarily conducted online. The ownership transfer (Salgsmelding) is a digital procedure requiring authentication via BankID, Buypass, or Commfides, and both buyer and seller must sign electronically. Once the transfer is confirmed, you pay the re-registration fee and the vehicle passes into your name on Norwegian plates.

For an imported vehicle, the process is more involved. Every vehicle brought into Norway must receive approval from Statens vegvesen before it can be registered on Norwegian plates. This means your car must first pass a first-time approval inspection — select the “First-time approval” category when making your booking — at a Driver and Vehicle Licensing Office (DVLO).

You are permitted to drive on foreign plates for up to 30 days after customs clearance of the vehicle, provided you have valid plates, a vehicle registration certificate, and insurance in place. This window gives you sufficient time to work through the inspection and registration procedures without being immobilised. Note that the deadline for reporting to the customs office is normally one to three days after entering Norway; failure to meet this deadline may result in additional fees imposed by Customs.

Once the vehicle clears its inspection, Statens vegvesen records its technical data, which then forms the basis for calculating the one-off registration tax. Norwegian plates are issued after all taxes have been settled. The complete process for an imported vehicle can span several weeks, depending on how quickly an inspection appointment is available. Contact Statens vegvesen to schedule a DVLO appointment and check current waiting times.

What insurance do I need to drive legally in Norway?

All vehicles in Norway must be covered by valid insurance at all times. Operating a vehicle without appropriate insurance is a criminal offence, not merely a civil matter. Norway has a competitive private insurance market with numerous providers, so unlike systems in some countries where a state-run insurer holds a monopoly, drivers are free to compare offerings and select the most suitable policy.

At a minimum, third-party liability insurance (ansvarsforsikring) is compulsory. This covers damage and injury caused to other road users and their property. Drivers who want broader protection for their own vehicle can add comprehensive cover (kasko) on top of the statutory minimum. Since premiums can differ considerably between insurers, it is worth obtaining quotes from several providers before committing.

A notable feature of Norway’s vehicle taxation system is that the road traffic insurance tax — which replaced the previous annual vehicle tax — is now collected as a component of your insurance premium. This arrangement has been in place since 1 January 2018. In effect, when you pay your insurance in Norway, you are simultaneously settling both your insurance premium and a statutory road-use levy built into the total charge.

Proof of Norwegian residency or a current visa is important when applying for insurance, as providers may be reluctant to offer cover without this documentation. Most Norwegian insurers will ask for evidence of your no-claims history from your previous country of residence. While there is no universal bilateral recognition agreement, many insurers are willing to take a documented foreign no-claims record into account when setting your premium. Enquire directly with your chosen insurer about their approach to overseas no-claims discounts.

If the insurance policy on your foreign-registered vehicle does not extend to Norway when you first cross the border, you will need to arrange Frontier Insurance through Norwegian Customs. This provides immediate short-term cover while you set up a Norwegian policy. For ongoing insurance matters, the Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority (Finanstilsynet) regulates the insurance industry and can be a useful reference point.

What driving licence do I need in Norway as an expat?

The rules governing driving licences in Norway vary according to the country that issued your licence. Licences from EU/EEA member states are treated differently from those issued elsewhere, so the first step is to identify which category applies to you.

EU/EEA licences: Holders of a valid driving licence from another EU/EEA country may drive in Norway, subject to Norwegian health requirements. Your licence continues to be valid in Norway for as long as it remains in date. When renewal becomes due, the process takes place in Norway and a Norwegian licence is issued — without the need to sit any tests. You may also choose to apply for a voluntary exchange to a Norwegian licence at any point through Statens vegvesen.

Non-EU/EEA licences: A driving licence issued by a country outside the EEA is ordinarily valid for driving in Norway for up to three months from the date of your arrival. If you submit an exchange application within this period, you may be entitled to receive a temporary driving permit in the interim.

Holders of licences from the following countries outside the EU/EEA are eligible to exchange their licence for a Norwegian one: Australia, Canada, Israel, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, South Korea, and the USA. In most cases, a full Norwegian driving test is not required, though a theory examination is generally necessary.

If your licence was issued by a country not on this list, you may be required to apply for a Norwegian licence as a first-time applicant, which involves passing both theory and practical assessments. Once the relevant deadline has passed without an exchange application being made, your right to exchange lapses and you will need to start the full licensing process from scratch.

To apply for an exchange, you may submit your application in person at a Driver and Vehicle Licensing Office or send it by post. Either way, you must include a completed application form, your original driving licence, and a certificate of residence or documentation confirming when you moved to Norway. If the text on your licence is not in English, French, or German, you must also provide an international driving licence or an approved Norwegian translation.

All licence-related matters are handled by Statens vegvesen. Book an appointment at your nearest Driver and Vehicle Licensing Office (trafikkstasjon) to begin the exchange process.

How do I sell a car in Norway?

Selling a vehicle in Norway is generally straightforward, but several important administrative steps must be completed to ensure the ownership transfer is properly recorded and your liability as the outgoing owner ends cleanly.

Before advertising your vehicle, assemble the registration document (vognkort), service history, and any documentation relating to recent inspections or repairs. Being transparent about the vehicle’s condition matters, as Norwegian consumer protection legislation gives buyers remedies where a car has been materially misrepresented.

When a vehicle changes hands, the transfer must be reported to Statens vegvesen (the Norwegian Public Roads Administration) via the digital Salgsmelding process. Authentication is required through BankID, Buypass, or Commfides, and both parties must sign electronically. Until the transfer is recorded in the system, the seller remains the registered legal owner and retains liability for any fines, toll charges, or incidents involving the vehicle. It is therefore vital that both buyer and seller complete the digital transfer at the moment of sale.

If the buyer is unable to complete the digital process immediately — for example because they do not yet hold a Norwegian personal identification number — both parties should visit a Statens vegvesen office together to complete the transfer in person. You should not hand over the vehicle and keys without finalising the ownership transfer, as doing so leaves you exposed to ongoing legal liability.

Regarding road tax: since the traffic insurance tax is collected through the insurance premium, cancelling your insurance policy on the sold vehicle brings your contribution to that levy to an end automatically. Before completing the sale, ensure that any outstanding toll charges linked to the vehicle have been settled. You can check your toll account via local toll authorities to confirm no liabilities remain.

In general, private individuals selling their own vehicle in Norway are not subject to capital gains tax or income tax on any profit from the sale. However, if you are selling vehicles on a commercial scale or as part of a business operation, different tax treatment may apply. Consult the Norwegian Tax Administration or a local tax adviser for advice specific to your situation.

Are there any ongoing costs or obligations for vehicle ownership in Norway?

Owning a registered vehicle in Norway brings with it a number of recurring costs and legal obligations. Knowing what to expect in advance makes it considerably easier to budget accurately for motoring in Norway.

Traffic insurance tax: Since the end of 2017, vehicle owners no longer pay a separate annual vehicle tax (årsavgift). In its place, a traffic insurance tax has been collected as part of the standard insurance premium from 1 January 2018 onward. This change simplifies the payment process relative to the old system, where owners had to remit an annual tax directly to the state.

Periodic roadworthiness inspection (EU-kontroll): The EU-kontroll is a biennial roadworthiness check — carried out once every two years — covering your vehicle’s safety systems and environmental performance. It is broadly comparable to the annual MOT test in the UK or similar periodic vehicle inspections in other European countries, though Norway operates on a two-year rather than an annual cycle. Only approved workshops — typically identifiable by an external sign indicating Statens vegvesen accreditation — are authorised to conduct this inspection. Vehicles that fail must have the identified defects corrected before they may legally continue to be used on public roads. You can check when your vehicle is next due for inspection through Statens vegvesen’s online services.

Toll charges: Norway operates an extensive electronic toll road network. Charges are collected automatically, either via an AutoPASS transponder fitted to your vehicle or through camera-based number plate recognition. Drivers who use Norwegian roads regularly without an AutoPASS agreement will still receive toll invoices, but at a higher rate than AutoPASS account holders. Signing up for an AutoPASS agreement is a simple process and pays off quickly for regular drivers. Further information is available at autopass.no.

Studded tyres charge: Studded tyres are permitted from 1 November until the first Sunday after Easter. Where studded tyres are fitted, a charge applies in Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim. Payment options include daily, monthly, and annual stickers. This levy is designed to offset the additional road surface wear caused by studded tyres and is a cost that is easy to underestimate when calculating overall motoring expenses.

Insurance renewal: Vehicle insurance in Norway must be kept in force without interruption. Allowing your policy to lapse constitutes a criminal offence and can also lead to suspension of your vehicle’s registration. It is worth comparing quotes from multiple providers at renewal time, as premiums can vary considerably across the market.

For a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of all vehicle ownership costs and obligations, refer to Statens vegvesen and the Norwegian Tax Administration.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive my foreign-registered car in Norway after moving there permanently?

As a general rule, vehicles must be registered in the country where their owner is resident. Permanent residents of Norway are not permitted to drive a foreign-registered vehicle within the country. If your stay does not exceed one year and you can demonstrate this, temporary use of a foreign-registered car may be possible. For extended or permanent stays, you must either import and register your vehicle or purchase one locally. Always confirm the current rules with the Norwegian Tax Administration.

Is there a duty-free exemption for people relocating to Norway with their car?

Unlike many European countries that operate “removal goods” programmes enabling relocating residents to bring personal vehicles in free of duty, Norway provides no such concession. Your privately owned vehicle will face exactly the same taxes and import charges as any commercially imported car. Verify the current position with Norwegian Customs (Tolletaten) before finalising any plans.

Do I need a Norwegian personal identification number to buy a car?

A Norwegian personal number is required both to register a vehicle and to obtain a car loan in Norway. Short-term residents can use a D-number, while those with permanent residency need an F-number (national identity number). You can apply for either through the Norwegian Tax Administration.

How long can I use my foreign driving licence in Norway?

A valid driving licence from another EU/EEA country remains valid in Norway for as long as the licence itself is in date. A licence issued by a country outside the EEA is valid for driving in Norway for up to three months from your date of arrival. After this period, you must initiate the exchange process with Statens vegvesen.

How often does my car need to pass a roadworthiness inspection in Norway?

The EU-kontroll is a biennial inspection — conducted once every two years — assessing your vehicle’s safety and environmental standards. Newly registered vehicles are typically exempt during their initial years on the road. Check when your specific vehicle is next due via Statens vegvesen.

Can I import a right-hand drive vehicle into Norway?

Norway drives on the right and left-hand drive vehicles are the norm. Right-hand drive vehicles may technically be imported, but they must comply fully with Norwegian technical standards and pass a first-time approval inspection with Statens vegvesen. Modifications are often required, and RHD vehicles can be more difficult to insure and sell on. Contact a Statens vegvesen DVLO for detailed guidance on your particular vehicle.

What happens if I sell my car in Norway but the buyer does not transfer the ownership registration?

Whenever a vehicle changes hands, the transfer must be formally reported to Statens vegvesen. Until this is recorded in the system, the seller remains the legal owner and retains liability for fines, toll charges, or any incidents involving the vehicle. Always complete the digital Salgsmelding at the point of sale and keep the confirmation for your records. If the buyer cannot complete the digital process, attend a Statens vegvesen office together to complete the transfer in person.

Are electric vehicles cheaper to import or buy in Norway than conventional cars?

Certain vehicles — including electric cars — may qualify for an exemption from or reduction of the one-off registration tax. VAT is also payable on electric vehicles, but only on the portion of their value that exceeds NOK 500,000. Qualifying battery electric passenger vehicles attract 0% import duty (as of 2025, subject to periodic review). Together, these incentives make EVs significantly more affordable to own in Norway. Use the Norwegian Tax Administration’s duty calculator to estimate the costs for your specific vehicle, and verify the current rules before importing.