Driving Licenses

Driving Licenses

EU/EEA Licenses
Driving licenses issued within the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) are widely recognized and are valid for driving across all EU and EEA member countries. This means that expats who possess a driving license issued by an EU/EEA nation can freely drive not only in the Netherlands but also in other EU/EEA countries, without the need to acquire an additional Dutch driving license. However, it's important to verify with your insurance provider whether your coverage is adequate for driving in your host country. Certain insurance policies might have specific conditions or requirements related to international driving.

Non-EU/EEA Licenses
For expats holding driving licenses from countries outside the EU/EEA, the procedures for license recognition and exchange are different. Some non-EU/EEA countries have bilateral agreements with the Netherlands that facilitate the direct exchange of licenses. In other cases, expats might need to undergo a driving test or meet other specific requirements to exchange their foreign license for a Dutch one.

To determine whether your country of origin has a specific agreement with the Netherlands concerning driving license recognition and exchange, you can refer to the official website of the Dutch driving authority (RDW). The RDW maintains up-to-date information about driving license exchange agreements between the Netherlands and various countries.

Non-EU/EEA Licenses & 30% Ruling
With the 30% ruling in effect, you become eligible to exchange your foreign driving license for a Dutch one without having to undergo a practical driving test. This provision is advantageous, streamlining the process and minimizing the time and effort required.

To initiate the exchange of your foreign driving license for a Dutch one, you will typically need to submit documents such as a valid residence permit, a copy of your employment contract, and evidence of your registration in the Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP/BSN). These requirements may vary, so it's recommended to consult the official RDW website for precise and up-to-date information. Additionally, depending on the language of your driving license, you may need to provide an official translation. To ensure compliance, it's advisable to verify the RDW's language requirements. ITSync can always help you with that!

** Rules for driving in the Netherlands are stringent. It's not permissible to drive a foreign-registered car, and you must exchange your foreign driving license for a Dutch one within 185 days of arriving in the country. If this exchange isn't possible (which applies to most non-EU/EFTA countries), you'll need to take a Dutch driving and theory test. All foreign-imported cars must be registered with the RDW, and the registration card should be in the car at all times. ** 


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