Cars & Transportation Netherlands

The public transport in the Netherlands offers a wide range of options, covering almost all corners of the country and providing convenience for both locals and tourists.

Trains: The Dutch railway network is considered one of the most efficient in Europe. Trains, operated by NS, connect cities and villages across the country. There are three main types of trains: Sprinter (regional trains), Intercity (for interregional travel), and high-speed trains Intercity Direct and Thalys, which connect the Netherlands with other European countries. Trains usually run from early morning until midnight, and even at night in major cities.

Buses: The bus network covers both cities and rural areas. Buses are a vital mode of transport in areas where rail lines are lacking. Different regions are serviced by different companies, but they all use a unified payment system via the OV-chipkaart, making travel convenient and integrated.

Trams: Tram lines exist in large cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht. Trams are a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel within the city, especially during peak hours when roads are congested.

Metro: The metro operates in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. It is the fastest way to travel within the city and its surroundings, especially compared to buses and trams. The metro runs within a closed system, making it independent of road traffic.

Ferries and water taxis: Ferries are available in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, providing free transport across waterways such as the River IJ in Amsterdam. Water taxis offer a faster, though paid, way to travel by water, and are especially popular in Rotterdam.

The Netherlands offers one of the most convenient and environmentally friendly public transport systems in the world, making travel across the country easy and accessible for all populations.

Air transport

Air transport in the Netherlands is characterized by a high level of development and accessibility, providing both domestic and international flights.

Key airports:

   - Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is the largest airport in the Netherlands and one of the major aviation hubs in Europe. Schiphol handles a vast number of international flights and is a key hub for the airline KLM. This airport is connected to over 300 destinations worldwide.

   - Airports in Rotterdam and Eindhoven also provide international flights, although to a lesser extent compared to Schiphol. These airports are often used for budget flights and intra-European routes.

Developed infrastructure:

   - All major airports in the Netherlands are easily accessible. Schiphol, for example, is only a 20-minute train ride from central Amsterdam. Trains run every 10-15 minutes, making trips to and from the airport quick and convenient.

   - Airports offer all necessary facilities, including shopping, dining, car rental services, and currency exchange.

International flights:

   - The Netherlands is connected by direct flights to most world capitals and major cities. From Schiphol, one can fly to Asia, North and South America, Africa, and other regions. Additionally, Schiphol is an important transit hub for travelers journeying from one part of the world to another.

In the Netherlands, purchasing tickets for public transport and using travel cards is quite convenient, but there are some features that are important to consider, especially for those who have recently arrived in the country.

OV-chipkaart: 

   This is the main system for paying for public transport in the Netherlands. The OV-chipkaart is a plastic card that can be used on all types of public transport, including trains, buses, trams, and the metro. There are three types of cards:

   - Anonymous OV-chipkaart: Suitable for those who plan to travel frequently but do not want to register. The card can be purchased from machines, stations, and supermarkets. It needs to be topped up in advance.

   - Personal OV-chipkaart: Registered to the owner's name and allows the use of additional discounts and subscriptions. Ideal for those living in the Netherlands for an extended period.

   - Disposable OV-chipkaart: Suitable for infrequent trips or tourists. It is a single-use ticket for a specific journey.

OVpay:

   A new system that allows paying for trips directly using a bank card (debit or credit) or a mobile phone with contactless payment. OVpay is available on all types of transport and is convenient as it does not require purchasing a separate card. However, it's worth noting that if you have a non-euro card, there might be additional expenses due to exchange rate differences.

Electronic tickets and apps:

   Tickets can be purchased through official apps, such as 9292 and NS, or on transport company websites. The apps also allow route planning and provide up-to-date information on delays and schedule changes. Electronic tickets are convenient as they do not need to be checked at entry and exit if your route and date are specified.

Tickets in machines and from drivers:

   In some cases, tickets can be purchased directly from machines at stations or from the driver on buses or trams. However, more and more transport is moving to cashless payment, so it is better to have a card or app for payment.

Thus, in the Netherlands, there are many ways to pay for travel, allowing for flexible ticket choices depending on needs and travel frequency.

There are many options for taxis and shared transport services in the Netherlands, including car sharing, electric scooter rentals, and bicycles, which are a great alternative to traditional modes of transportation.

Taxis: In major Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, taxis can be booked through mobile apps such as Uber and Bolt. These apps offer convenient features like trip tracking, cashless payment, and the ability to choose the car class. There are also specialized companies like TaxiElectric that offer fully electric taxis, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Car sharing: Car-sharing platforms such as SnappCar and MyWheels are popular in the Netherlands, allowing people to rent cars for short periods, which is convenient for those who do not wish to own a car. These services operate on a 'pay per use' system and do not require a mandatory subscription.

Electric scooters: In the Netherlands, electric scooters can be rented through apps such as Dott, Felyx, and Bird. These services allow quick transportation around the city, avoiding traffic jams and parking hassles. Rental costs are usually calculated by the minute, and scooters must be parked in designated areas.

Bicycles: The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture, and bike rental services are an important part of this infrastructure. Almost every city has a developed cycling infrastructure: bike paths, parking, and rental options. Many residents and expats prefer bicycles as their primary mode of transport, promoting an active lifestyle and saving on transportation costs. OV-fiets offers bike rental at railway stations. There are also companies like Donkey Republic and FlickBike, which provide the rental of city and electric bikes, often operating on a pay-per-use system.

Usage features:

- Many of these services require a registered address in the Netherlands to sign up or access certain services.

- Most services use mobile apps for searching and renting transport, as well as for payment. This simplifies the booking process and makes it accessible to almost all users.

Living in the Netherlands without a car is not only possible but also quite convenient, thanks to a highly developed and efficient public transportation system, as well as a wide range of alternative transportation options.

Obtaining a local driver's license in the Netherlands for foreigners depends on their citizenship, residency status, and whether they have a valid driver's license from another country.

Driver's License Exchange (if applicable)

If you have a valid driver's license from a European Union country or European Economic Area, you can use it in the Netherlands for up to 15 years from the date of issuance or up to 2 years after obtaining permanent residency. After this period, you need to exchange it for a Dutch license.

Citizens from some other countries (e.g., Switzerland, South Korea, Japan, the USA, and Canada) can also exchange their driver's licenses for a Dutch one without having to take an exam. A full list of countries and the exchange conditions can be found on the RDW website.

Obtaining a New Driver's License

If you do not have a driver's license that can be exchanged, or if you do not meet the exchange conditions, you will need to obtain a new Dutch license. This requires several steps:

- Theoretical Exam: First, you need to pass a theoretical exam at CBR. The exam is available in Dutch and English and includes questions about traffic rules, safety, and basic first aid.

- Practical Lessons: After successfully passing the theoretical exam, you need to undergo practical training at one of the accredited driving schools. The number of lessons depends on your experience and driving skills.

- Practical Exam: After completing the training, you must pass a practical exam also at CBR. During the exam, your driving skills, knowledge of the rules, and ability to safely operate a vehicle in various traffic situations are tested.

- Medical Examination: In some cases, such as if you are over 75 years old or have certain medical conditions, you may be required to undergo a medical examination.

Special Conditions for Expats

Expats working in the Netherlands under the 30% tax ruling can exchange their foreign driver's licenses for a Dutch one, even if their country is not on the list of countries whose licenses are eligible for exchange.

Timeframes and Costs

The process of obtaining a driver's license can take anywhere from several weeks to several months, depending on your driving experience and preparation level. The cost of obtaining a license varies, including fees for the theoretical and practical exams, driving school training, and other administrative charges.

Owning and driving a personal car in the Netherlands has its own features that should be considered by anyone planning to use a car in this country. These features include high taxes, mandatory insurance, strict traffic regulations, and a developed infrastructure for alternative modes of transport.

Taxes and Charges

Owning a car in the Netherlands comes with certain financial obligations. The main ones are:

   - Vehicle Tax: This tax is calculated based on the type of car, its weight, type of fuel, and the province where the car is registered. In the Netherlands, the tax on diesel cars and cars with high CO2 emissions is significantly higher than on more environmentally friendly cars.

   - Purchase Tax: This is a one-time tax levied when purchasing a new or imported car. Its size depends on the CO2 emissions level of the vehicle.

Insurance

Car insurance in the Netherlands is mandatory. There are three main types of insurance:

   - WA: Mandatory minimum insurance covering third-party liability.

   - WA + beperkt casco: Includes additional coverage for theft, fire, glass breakage, and natural disasters.

   - All-risk (WA + volledig casco): The most comprehensive coverage, including damage to your car in an accident caused by the owner.

Technical Inspection

All cars in the Netherlands are subject to regular technical inspections, conducted to check their safety and compliance with environmental standards. The frequency of inspection depends on the age and type of vehicle.

Parking

Parking in Dutch cities can be costly and limited. Many areas have paid parking zones, and parking costs can be high, especially in major cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Residents are provided with parking permits, which also require payment and may have long waiting periods for issuance.

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Traffic Rules

The Netherlands is known for its strict traffic rules and high driving culture. Speed limits are strictly enforced and monitored by cameras. Fines for speeding, using mobile phones while driving, and other violations can be significant.

Alternatives to Driving

The Netherlands has one of the best public transportation systems in Europe, along with a well-developed network of bicycle paths, making cars not always necessary. Many residents prefer to use bicycles or public transport for daily commutes, especially in big cities where traffic can be difficult.

Thus, owning and driving a personal car in the Netherlands is associated with a high level of responsibility and cost, as well as requires adherence to strict rules. However, due to its developed infrastructure, having a car can be convenient and useful, especially for trips outside the major cities.

Traffic violations in the Netherlands are strictly punished, and the system of fines and penalties is oriented towards ensuring road safety. Below are the main types of violations and their corresponding penalties.

Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common violations in the Netherlands, and fines for it can be significant. The amount of the fine depends on how much the speed limit was exceeded and where the violation occurred (in a populated area or outside).

- For example, exceeding the speed limit by 5 km/h in a zone with a 50 km/h limit will result in a fine of about 35 euros.

- Exceeding the speed limit by 30 km/h or more in an urban area can result in a fine of up to 400 euros, and in some cases – losing one's driver's license.

Using a Mobile Phone While Driving

In the Netherlands, using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free device is strictly prohibited. The fine for this violation is 380 euros. This applies not only to car drivers but also to cyclists, who can also be fined for using a phone while riding.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense. Depending on the alcohol level in the blood, fines can range from 300 to 850 euros, and in cases of significant exceeding of the permissible level, a driving ban or even imprisonment may be imposed. For novice drivers (with less than 5 years of experience), the permissible alcohol level is lower, and penalties for exceeding it are stricter.

Running a Red Light

Running a red light is also penalized with a fine. The standard fine for this violation is about 280 euros. If the violation caused an accident or created a dangerous road situation, additional sanctions may follow.

Not Using a Seatbelt

The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is 150 euros. This fine applies to all passengers in the car, including backseat passengers. The driver is responsible for all passengers and can be fined for each unbelted passenger.

Improper Parking

Fines for improper parking vary depending on the location of the violation. For example, parking in a handicapped zone without a proper permit can result in a fine of 380 euros. Fines for parking in unauthorized places in urban areas can also be high.

Cyclist Traffic Violations

Cyclists in the Netherlands must also comply with traffic rules. Violations such as running a red light or using a phone while cycling are punishable with fines ranging from 100 to 150 euros.

Specifics of Penalizing Foreigners for Traffic Violations

In the Netherlands, penalties for traffic violations apply equally to locals and foreigners. However, there are some specifics that may affect foreigners:

Immediate Fine Collection

For foreigners without a permanent residence in the Netherlands, fines for traffic violations may be collected on the spot. This means that police officers can demand immediate payment of the fine. In case of refusal to pay, the vehicle may be detained until the fine is paid in full.

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Sending Fines Abroad

If a violation was recorded by surveillance cameras or police, and the offender has already left the Netherlands, the fine will be sent to their residence address in another country. In some cases, if the fine is not paid, the case may be handed over to collections agencies or international debt recovery organizations.

Revocation of Driver's License

In the event of serious violations, such as driving under the influence or exceeding the speed limit by a significant margin, foreigners may have their driver's licenses revoked in the Netherlands. If the driver's license is confiscated, it is sent to the country that issued the license, which may lead to revocation of the license in the offender's residence country as well.

Information Exchange with Other Countries

The Netherlands cooperates with a number of countries in exchanging information about traffic violations. This means that information about a violation may be transmitted to the foreigner’s country of residence, which could affect their driving record or result in additional sanctions in the residence country.

Temporary Vehicle Confiscation

If a foreigner is unable to pay a large fine on the spot, the police have the right to temporarily confiscate the vehicle until the fine is fully paid. This can result in significant inconvenience and additional expenses for vehicle storage.

Overall, foreigners should be prepared for the laws on traffic regulations to be enforced strictly and without exceptions in the Netherlands, and non-compliance with the rules can lead to serious consequences, even if they are in the country temporarily.

In the Netherlands, the process of vehicle inspection and registration is strictly regulated and includes several key stages.

Vehicle Registration

Vehicle registration in the Netherlands is mandatory for all car owners, including those who import cars from abroad. Registration is handled by the RDW organization.

- When purchasing a new car: Usually, the dealer handles the registration process for you, and you receive the registration documents along with the car.

- When importing a car from another country: You will need to go through the registration process through RDW. This includes providing all necessary documents, such as the vehicle's certificate of origin, evidence of all necessary taxes paid, and technical documents for the car.

Technical Inspection

The technical inspection of cars in the Netherlands is called APK and is mandatory for all vehicles older than a certain age.

- Frequency of inspection: New petrol cars must have their first inspection four years after registration, then every two years until eight years of age, after which the inspection becomes annual. Diesel and gas cars are inspected more frequently—first after three years, then annually.

- Inspection procedure: The inspection is conducted in accredited workshops. During the inspection, important safety elements (brakes, steering, lighting, etc.) and environmental parameters (emission levels) are checked. If the vehicle fails the inspection, it must be repaired and undergo a re-inspection.

Documents Confirming Inspection

After successfully passing the inspection, you receive a corresponding certificate, which must be kept in the vehicle. If the inspection is not passed, you are not allowed to operate the vehicle until all defects are rectified.

Fines for Lack of Inspection

If the car does not undergo inspection within the stipulated time, its owner may incur a fine. Moreover, driving without a valid APK may lead to cancellation of the vehicle's registration.

Registration of Changes to the Vehicle

Any significant changes to the vehicle's design, such as engine modifications, gas installation, or significant weight change, must be registered with RDW. In some cases, a re-inspection may be required after the changes are made.

Thus, it is important to follow the established rules and complete all necessary procedures on time to avoid fines and other legal consequences.

The use and registration of foreign cars in the Netherlands are governed by strict rules, especially if you plan to use the car on a permanent basis. 

Temporary use of foreign cars

If you are temporarily staying in the Netherlands (for example, a tourist or a short-term student), you can use your foreign car without having to register it in the Netherlands. However, there are important conditions:

   - Duration of use: You can use a car with foreign plates for up to six months per year if you are not a resident of the Netherlands. If you live in the Netherlands for more than six months, the car must be registered.

   - Insurance: Your car must be insured in the country it is registered, and the insurance must cover the use of the car in the Netherlands.

   - Taxes: Temporary users of foreign cars are exempt from the motor vehicle tax (MRB) and the vehicle purchase tax (BPM).

Registration of a foreign car

If you plan to use the car in the Netherlands on a permanent basis, you need to register it with the RDW. The registration process includes the following steps:

   - Technical inspection: Before registration, the car must undergo a technical inspection at one of the accredited workshops. This is necessary to ensure that the car meets Dutch safety and environmental standards.

   - Payment of taxes: When registering a car, it is necessary to pay the vehicle purchase tax (BPM).

   - Submission of documents: You must provide the RDW with documents proving the origin of the car, its compliance with technical standards, and documents confirming the payment of taxes.

Features for expats

For expats working under the 30% tax exemption scheme, there are special conditions. They can be exempt from paying BPM when registering a car if the car was registered in their name for at least six months before moving to the Netherlands.

Fines for violating rules

The use of a foreign car without registration within the established time frames can lead to significant fines and even confiscation of the car. The police have the right to check the legality of the car's use and impose fines for rule violations.

Charging stations

The Netherlands has one of the densest networks of charging stations for electric vehicles in the world. The country has installed over 90,000 public charging stations, making the Netherlands one of the most convenient places for electric vehicle owners.

Types of charging stations: A variety of charging stations are available in the Netherlands, from regular charging points with power from 3.7-22 kW to fast charging stations that can charge an electric vehicle in 20-30 minutes (usually with a power of 50 kW and above). Fast charging stations are widely available along major highways and in large cities.

  Availability and costs: Charging stations are integrated into most major cities and rural areas, allowing electric vehicle owners to travel freely across the country. The cost of charging varies depending on the operator but is usually around 0.20-0.30 euros per kWh. Many stations operate with various apps and cards, simplifying the payment and charging process.

Electric vehicle service centers

As the electric vehicle market develops in the Netherlands, the number of service centers specializing in electric vehicle maintenance is also increasing.

- Dealership centers and specialized workshops: Major electric vehicle manufacturers such as Tesla, Volkswagen, BMW, and others have service centers in the Netherlands, ensuring the availability of quality service. There are also independent workshops that specialize in the repair and maintenance of electric vehicles, including diagnostics, battery replacement, and other components.

- Maintenance and repair: The maintenance of electric vehicles in the Netherlands is organized at a high level. Automakers and independent service centers offer a full range of services, including regular maintenance, repair, and battery replacement. The market for spare parts and components for electric vehicles is also actively developing in the country.

Government Initiatives and Incentives

The Dutch government actively supports the development of infrastructure for electric vehicles, offering various incentives for electric vehicle owners and charging station operators.

- Subsidies and tax benefits: Electric vehicle owners in the Netherlands can take advantage of various subsidies, including reductions or exemptions from vehicle tax and vehicle purchase tax. There are also incentive programs for installing charging stations in residential areas and workplaces.