New Regulations Make it Easier to Register and Deregister Vehicles Online
In a recent development, new rules have been implemented, making it simpler for vehicle owners to register and deregister their vehicles online. There’s no longer a need to physically visit a traffic station or submit number plates. Typically, vehicles are deregistered during the winter season.
Estimates suggest that around 190,000 vehicle owners took advantage of this new option in 2022, with the number likely increasing now that registration and deregistration can be handled from the comfort of your home.
Beware of Long-Term Parking
While convenient, this new system also presents a potential pitfall. Some owners may leave their deregistered vehicles parked in public spaces for extended periods, unaware of the associated risks.
Swift Tow-Away After 14 Days
What many non-owners might not know is that under the Norwegian Vehicle Traffic Act’s section 17, vehicles can be towed away within 14 days if they’ve been parked in the same spot for more than two weeks. This applies to both registered and deregistered vehicles displaying their license plates.
Lars Monsen, head of Norpark, which manages many of Norway’s parking services, confirms this: "Many people are unaware of this rule. Now, deregistered vehicles are also subject to this, regardless of whether they’re displaying their license plates."
No Warning for Deregistered Vehicles
Monsen also notes that the rules for towing registered and deregistered vehicles differ. While registered vehicles are subject to a warning period to allow owners time to move their vehicles, deregistered ones are not.
Figures and Fines
In Oslo alone, approximately 250 such vehicles have been towed so far this year, according to Bymiljøetaten. The cost of retrieval varies: 5,100 NOK for a passenger car, 4,555 NOK for a motorcycle or moped, and 5,188 NOK for a trailer or caravan.
