Driving licenses in the Netherlands
A Dutch driver’s license (rijbewijs) is an official document that allows you to drive in the
Netherlands and all member states of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area
(EEA). It also serves as valid proof of identification in most places in the Netherlands.
If you plan to stay in the Netherlands long-term, it is often worth exchanging your foreign driving licence for a Dutch rijbewijs. For citizens of most European countries, you can generally continue to use your request from your home country until it expires. For most non-European expats who plan to stay for longer than six months, you must exchange your licence within the first six months. See below for more specific details.
How to apply for your driver’s license
You can drive once you have your driver’s license. After passing the practical exam, you can
request your driving license from the municipality the next day. Take a colour passport photo and a valid
identification document with you. You can collect your driver’s license after five working days.
Eligibility of Driving License
The minimum age to drive a car unsupervised in the Netherlands is 18. However,
teens who have passed theoretical and practical exams can drive from age 17 with a
registered ‘driving coach’. The teen must request a ‘driving passport’ to be eligible to
go with a coach. This transitional period until their 18th birthday allows the new
student driver to gain valuable practical experience under supervision.
What are the requirements?
1. Valid Residence Permit: You must have a valid residence permit for the Netherlands. The type
and the duration of your ticket may affect your eligibility for a Dutch driving license.
2. Proof of Identity: You must provide evidence of your identity, such as your passport or identity
card.
3. Passport-sized Photos: Usually, you’ll need two recent passport-sized photos. These should
meet the Netherlands’ passport photo requirements.
4. Health Declaration (Eigen Verklaring): You may need to complete a health declaration form called " Eigen Verklaring." The form can be obtained from the Central Office for Motor
Vehicle Driver Testing (CBR).
5. Proof of Completion of Theory Exam: If you are a new driver, you must pass a theory exam.
Once you’ ve passed, you’ ll receive a certificate indicating your success.
6. Proof of Practical Training: You must show that you have completed several driving lessons with
a certified instructor. Your instructor can provide you with documentation for this.
7. Proof of Passing Practical Exam: After successfully passing your practical driving test, you’ ll
receive a certificate or statement from the exam centre.
8. Proof of Residency: Some municipalities may require proof of your residence in the Netherlands,
such as a registration certificate (BRP registration).
9. Payment: Be prepared to pay the required fees for your driving license application.