Driving licence

Exchanging your current driving licence in the Netherlands or applying for a new one doesn’t have to be complicated. If you want to get a Dutch driving licence, this resource will answer all the frequently asked questions to begin the process.

International Driver’s Licences in the Netherlands

Are you moving to the Netherlands with your international driver’s licence? Here are answers to the most common questions about using a foreign licence in the Netherlands, exchanging your licence, and applying for a new one. 

Can I Use my Driving Licence in the Netherlands?

If your driving licence was issued in an EU or EEA country or in Switzerland, you can use it in the Netherlands for 15 years (from the date of its issue). The only exception to this is if you acquired your licence in another EU country when you were already registered in the Netherlands. In this case, the licence will not be valid in the Netherlands and you will need to exchange it (see below).

If your driving licence was issued in a non-EU country, you have a maximum of 185 days from your arrival in the Netherlands to use it. Afterwards, you will need to exchange it or get a Dutch licence. 

Am I Eligible to Exchange My Licence?

Some driving licences can be exchanged for a Dutch licence, but certain conditions must be met. You need to be registered as a resident of the Netherlands and have a valid residence permit. The driving licence must be from an EU/EEA country or from Switzerland, or fulfill other conditions that are different per country. Exemptions also apply for those that are subject to the 30% ruling. 

Furthermore, if it was issued in a non-EU country, the licence must still be valid. And it must have been issued after you were a resident of that country for at least 185 days.

For more information and a list of eligible countries, see the website of the Dutch Vehicle Authority (RDW).

How Do I Exchange My Driving Licence?

You need to apply for an exchange of your licence at your local municipality (i.e., the one where you are registered). They will forward your application to the RDW. Note that applications sent directly to the RDW will not be processed. 

What Do I Need for My Application? 

You will need the following documents: 

• Valid identity papers
• Your foreign driving licence
• A photo
• In some cases, you also need a verklaring van geschiktheid (certificate of fitness)

How Much Does It Cost?

• The cost is €41.60 (as of 2022) and must be paid up front when submitting your application.

How Long Does It Take?

• The Dutch Road Transport Directorate will let you know when your license can be collected. The licence is valid for 10 years.

Find out more about exchanging your licence in your municipality:

• The Hague
• Delft (in Dutch)
• Leidschendam-Voorburg (in Dutch)

What If I Can’t Exchange My Licence?

• If you don’t meet the conditions for exchanging your licence, you will need to apply for a Dutch driving licence. There are two exams you must pass to get your licence. The first is a theory exam and the second is a driving test on the road. There are many driving schools in The Hague region, where you can take lessons to prepare for these exams.

To apply for a licence in your municipality, you must be registered in the Municipal Personal Records database (BRP).

Find out more for applying for a new licence in your municipality: 

• The Hague
• Delft (in Dutch)
• Leidschendam-Voorburg (in Dutch)

Statement of Health and Certificate of Fitness

To get your driving licence in the Netherlands, you need to provide a statement of health. Purchase your health declaration at the Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing (CBR), or with DigiD on the website of CBR. Many driving schools will also provide this declaration. After you purchase your Statement of Health, you then need to send it to the CBR.

The CBR assesses whether you are medically fit or if you need an additional examination. If you are medically fit, a Certificate of Fitness is registered in the driving licence register by CBR. You will receive confirmation of this in a letter from the CBR.

Once you have your driving licence, you can apply for a parking permit in your municipality. Still not sure what steps you need to take to bring your car from abroad? Check out our handy resource.

Road Traffic Signs and Regulations in the Netherlands

Arriving in the Netherlands, one quickly recognises that the road environment is different than in other countries. To participate safely in Dutch traffic, the Ministry of Infrastructure has listed which rules are in play, what signs are unique and how to comply, especially as a driver of a motorised vehicle. Please refer to the government website about Participating in Dutch Traffic for more information. Here some of the most important Dutch traffic rules and regulations are highlighted, to keep you and others safe. The complete translation of Dutch traffic rules and regulations can be found on the government website: Road Traffic Signs and Regulations in the Netherlands | Report | Government.nl.