Driving in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a well-structured and cyclist-friendly road system. Whether you plan to drive daily or occasionally rent a car, understanding the local traffic rules, licensing requirements, and road etiquette will ensure a smooth driving experience.

Key Differences Between Driving in South Africa and the Netherlands

If you're moving from South Africa, here are some crucial differences to be aware of:

Driving Side: In South Africa, vehicles drive on the left, while in the Netherlands, traffic moves on the right. This requires an adjustment, especially when making turns and entering roundabouts.
Speed Limits: Dutch speed limits are generally lower:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h
- Rural roads: 80 km/h
- Highways: 100-120 km/h (varies by time of day and location)
Traffic Cameras: Speeding fines are strictly enforced with automated cameras.
Cyclist Priority: Unlike South Africa, cyclists in the Netherlands have priority in many situations. They often have their own lanes and expect cars to yield to them.

More details: Dutch Traffic Rules

Understanding Dutch Road Signs and Rules

Road signs in the Netherlands follow European standards, but some may be unfamiliar. To familiarize yourself, check:

Traffic Sign Guide: www.verkeersbordenoverzicht.nl
Dutch Traffic Rules (English PDF): wetten.overheid.nl

🚦 Right of Way: Vehicles coming from the right generally have priority unless otherwise indicated. 🚴 Cyclists: They often disregard red lights, so always be cautious, especially at intersections.

Exchanging Your South African Driver’s Licence

🚗 Validity of Your SA Licence: If you have a valid South African driver’s licence, you may use it for up to 185 days after you move to live in the Netherlands. After that, you are only allowed to drive in the Netherlands with a Dutch driving licence. Tourists in NL are allowed to drive around using their foreign driver's licence (max of 90 days). Source: www.rdw.nl

1. If You Qualify for the 30% Ruling

Expats who receive the 30% tax ruling can exchange their South African licence for a Dutch one without taking a driving test.

Steps to Exchange:

Apply for a Certificate of Fitness (‘Gezondheidsverklaring’) via the CBR (www.cbr.nl)
Submit an application at your local municipality (gemeente) with:
- Your original South African licence
- Valid residence permit
- Proof of 30% ruling status
- Passport photo

More details: RDW Driver’s Licence Exchange

2. If You Do NOT Qualify for the 30% Ruling

You will need to obtain a Dutch driving licence by:

Passing a Theory Exam (available in English) at the CBR.
Taking Practical Driving Lessons with a certified instructor.
Passing a Practical Test at the CBR.

Find a driving school: www.cbr.nl

Traffic Fines and Common Violations

Traffic laws in the Netherlands are strictly enforced. Common fines include:

Speeding: starting at €32 for 5km/hr over the limit depending on whether your driving in or outside a built-up area or on the motorway (higher for excessive speeds)
Using a Phone While Driving: €420
Running a Red Light: €300
Improper Parking: €120+
Not Giving Priority to Cyclists: €300

Fines are issued automatically via camera systems and sent to your registered address.

More details: www.iamexpat.nl

Driving in Other European Countries

Planning a road trip across Europe? Here’s what you need to know:

Your Dutch Licence is Valid Across the EU
Winter Tyres & Safety Gear: Some countries (e.g., Germany, France) require winter tyres and a reflective vest.
Toll Roads: Many European countries, including France and Italy, have toll roads. Payment can be made via credit card or toll passes.

Environmental Zones and Badges

Many European cities have environmental zones (Low Emission Zones or LEZ) where only vehicles meeting strict emission standards are allowed. To drive in these areas, you may need an environmental badge (also called Crit’Air or Umweltplakette) depending on the country.

Germany: Requires a green Umweltplakette for most urban areas.
France: Cities like Paris require a Crit’Air vignette.
Italy: Many cities have ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) restrictions.

Vignettes in Europe

Some European countries require a vignette to use motorways. Unlike toll roads that charge based on distance, vignettes are a prepaid road usage permit. Countries requiring vignettes include:

Austria, Switzerland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria.
Vignettes must be purchased before driving on motorways and are available at border crossings, gas stations, or online.

More details: www.tolltickets.com

Always check environmental regulations and toll requirements before traveling to avoid fines.

For country-specific driving rules: www.anwb.nl

Parking in the Netherlands

Parking in Dutch cities can be expensive and restricted.

1. Parking Permits (Vergunning)

Residents often need a parking permit (‘parkeervergunning’). These can be obtained from the local gemeente and are linked to your registered address.

2. Paid Parking

Most urban areas have paid parking zones (‘betaald parkeren’). Payment options include:

Parking meters (coins or card payments)
Mobile apps like ParkMobile, Yellowbrick
License plate-based payment at automated kiosks

When to Use a Car vs. Public Transport

Public transport in the Netherlands is efficient and affordable, making it a great alternative to driving:

✅ Use a car when:

Traveling to rural areas with limited public transport
Carrying heavy loads or multiple passengers

🚆 Use public transport when:

Commuting in cities (avoids expensive parking & traffic)
Traveling between cities (trains are often faster)

For public transport options: 9292 Journey Planner

Car-Sharing Services: MyWheels & More

If you don’t want to own a car, car-sharing services are a flexible option.

How Car-Sharing Works

Sign up via an app (e.g., MyWheels, Greenwheels, SnappCar)
Reserve a nearby car
Unlock with your phone and drive!
Pay per hour or kilometer

🚗 Popular services:

What is ‘BOB’ in the Netherlands?

‘BOB’ (‘Bewust Onbeschonken Bestuurder’) is a designated driver campaign in the Netherlands, promoting sober driving. If someone says: “Bob jij of Bob ik?” they are asking who will be the sober driver for the night.

More info: BOB Campaign

Final Tips for Driving in the Netherlands

✅ Be cautious of cyclists – they always have priority.
✅ Avoid unnecessary left-lane driving on highways to prevent fines.
✅ Use navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze) to check for real-time traffic.
✅ Consider car-sharing if you don’t drive often.
✅ Obey speed limits – fines are strictly enforced.

For official driving regulations, visit: www.rdw.nl