Buying a Car in Norway

If you choose to own or buy a car in Norway, prepare for a big shock. Cars are expensive, but more so are the taxes put on vehicles. You may have to pay 100% of the cost of the car, making it twice as expensive as you’d expect. Cars are taxed according to the weight of the car and the size of the engine – the larger and more powerful the car, the higher the fees. You can purchase cars at local dealers, or import them from other countries.

If you choose to bring your car to Norway or to import one, you have to register it with Norwegian plates. To register, you will have to pay both VAT and an import fee. The only way around this is to import an antique car (over 30 years old). You can get more information at Tollvesenet at tad@toll.no or Tel +47 03012.

Cost of ownership

Owning and maintaining a car in Norway is surprisingly expensive. Just because Norway produces oil doesn’t mean they give it away. Petrol is expensive, as is all maintenance. Cars must be inspected each year, and you will receive a date and time to show up for your inspection. Don’t miss your appointment!  Also, remember that Norwegian winters involve snow, ice, salty roads and below freezing temperatures. You must have the right oil and proper tyres in the winter. The date to put on winter tyres is set, and you will be penalised if you miss the date and are caught. If you choose to use studded tires, you will pay extra taxes per day within city limits.