How long can you drive in the Netherlands with a foreign licence?

Moving to the Netherlands with a foreign driving licence? The deadline depends on where the licence was issued, its category and its issue date.

EU/EFTA licences

For categories AM, A1, A2, A, B and BE, the RDW says you may generally drive in the Netherlands for up to 15 years from the licence’s issue date, as long as the licence remains valid.

For categories C1, C, D1, D, C1E, CE, D1E and DE, the maximum is 5 years from the issue date, subject to validity.

If an EU/EFTA licence was issued more than 15 years ago but has not expired, the RDW says it may generally be used for another 2 years after you relocate to the Netherlands.

Important exception: if an EU/EFTA licence was issued while you were already living and registered in the Netherlands, you are not allowed to drive with it here; it must be exchanged.

Licences issued outside the EU/EFTA

A valid non-EU/EFTA licence can generally be used for the first 185 days after you relocate to the Netherlands. After that, you need a Dutch driving licence.

Some foreign licences can be exchanged. If yours cannot be exchanged, you will normally need to pass the Dutch theory and practical tests.

Do not leave the exchange until the deadline

The RDW warns that you cannot keep driving after the permitted period while an exchange application is still being processed. It says processing takes at least 15 working days and may take longer if more information is needed.

Tourists are treated differently

If you are visiting as a tourist rather than relocating, you may drive with a foreign licence. For licences from outside the EU/EFTA whose category letters differ from A, B, C, D or E, the RDW advises also obtaining an international driving licence in the issuing country.

Official RDW information:

https://www.rdw.nl/en/driving-licence/foreign-driving-licence/driving-with-a-foreign-driving-licence

Which country issued your licence, and was the exchange process straightforward? Please avoid sharing personal document numbers.

This is a community summary. Check the current RDW rules for your exact licence and circumstances.