Do I need to exchange my driving licence?
Index
- Can I drive in the Netherlands with my foreign driving licence?
- I hold an EU/EER driving licence, do I have to exchange it for a Dutch licence?
- I hold a driving licence from a Non-EU/EER country, do I have to exchange it?
- How do I exchange my driving licence?
- Can I exchange a non-EU licence?
- What if I have the 30% ruling?
- What categories of vehicles can I drive?
- What happens if I don’t exchange my licence in time?
- How can Anywr Netherlands help?
Yes, but only for a limited period. The duration depends on your country of origin. EU/EFTA licences are generally valid longer than non-EU licences.
When your driving license is issued in an EU country, Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein or Iceland, you only need to exchange your driving licence if it’s expiring. Even with an expired driving licence you can obtain a Dutch one. However, when you still want to drive you always need a valid driving licence!
You are allowed to drive in the Netherlands with a valid non-EU/EER driving licence for 185 days (six months) after the first registration at the Dutch town hall. Before the six months have passed, you need to have exchanged it for a Dutch one. Otherwise you will be driving illegally, which may result in a considerable fine. In case of an accident your insurance company may not cover the damages.
You apply at your local municipality. You’ll need:
– A valid foreign driving licence
– Proof of residence (BRP registration)
– A valid ID or residence permit
Only if your country has a bilateral agreement with the Netherlands, or if you are entitled to the 30% ruling. Otherwise, you have to take a Dutch driving test.
If you hold the 30% tax ruling, you can exchange your licence from any country, even if it’s not on the approved list. There are two conditions in this situation:
– Your foreign driving licence is still valid.
– You have lived 185 days in the country in the year you obtained your driving licence.
To apply for a Dutch driving licence, you will need a valid Proof of approval (Beschikking Bewijsregel) from the Dutch tax authorities. You can apply for this together with your employer.
Most expats exchange for category B (passenger cars). Other categories depend on your original licence and whether you passed separate exams.
You may no longer be allowed to drive legally in the Netherlands and could face fines or insurance issues.
Anywr Netherlands can assist with all items that are related to your driving licence exchange:
– Your local registration in the Netherlands
– Advice on the need to change your driving licence
– Assistance in getting the appointment to start the process at your local municipality
– Assistance with your 30% ruling application
