Driving in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is famous for its scenic canals, colourful tulip fields, iconic windmills and the colour orange.

Like other European countries, Holland has its own variation of rules and requirements that you should familiarise yourself with before you arrive and begin driving as they may vary to what you're used to. This handy guide will help you get ready for your Dutch road trip.

If you're hiring a car, you should consider taking out a standalone excess insurance policy for hire cars from ReduceMyExcess. This will ensure you are covered against any excess fees the hire company might charge you for damaged caused to the rental vehicle, or for theft.

Can I Drive in the Netherlands with a UK Licence?

Yes. UK drivers can legally use their full, valid licence in the Netherlands without needing an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, if you’re travelling outside the EU, you should always check the requirements for each country in advance. If you’re hiring a car, let the car hire company know which countries you plan to drive through.

What is the Legal Driving Age in the Netherlands?

The minimum driving age in the Netherlands is 18. However, most rental firms will require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held their licence for at least one year. Some companies may set a higher minimum age (23 to 25) and may also apply a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

What Side of the Road Do They Drive on in the Netherlands?

Just like most of mainland Europe, you drive on the right-hand side of the road in the Netherlands.

How Do Roundabouts Work in the Netherlands?

Traffic already on the roundabout usually has priority unless signs indicate otherwise. Cyclists often have priority at roundabouts and junctions, so drive with extra caution particularly as it's famously case that there are more bikes than Dutch citizens.

Traffic Lights in the Netherlands

Dutch traffic lights follow the standard red–amber–green system.

A flashing amber light means you must give way to other traffic but may proceed with caution.

Always stop at a red ligh; cameras at junctions can automatically fine drivers who run red lights.

Speed Limits in the Netherlands

Speed limits are displayed in kilometres per hour (km/h). Unless stated otherwise, the general limits are:

• Built-up areas: 50 km/h
• Outside built-up areas: 80 km/h
• Motorways (daytime, 6am-7pm): 100 km/h
• Motorways (evening/night, 7pm-6am): 120:130 km/h (it can vary so check signage)

Speed Cameras in the Netherlands

Fines for speeding can be high, even for small violations and are strictly enforced with speed cameras. Average speed check zones and mobile cameras are also common.

Speeding fines:

• 20 km/h over the limit in built up areas: €194
• 20 km/h over the limit on motorways: €174
• If you're found to be exceeding the limit by 40 km/h (motorways) or 30 km/h (other roads) you could face a driving suspension as well as a fine

Speed Camera Detectors

It’s illegal to use or carry radar detection equipment. If your GPS has a fixed-camera alert function, it must be deactivated.

Safety Equipment Requirements in the Netherlands

Unlike some European countries, the Netherlands does not legally require you to carry items such as a warning triangle, reflective jackets, or a first aid kit. However, carrying them is strongly recommended for safety.

Headlight Rules

In the daytime headlights are not compulsory but lots of drivers utilise their dipped beams for safety.

At night or in poor visibility such as fog and heavy rain dipped headlights are mandatory.

Outside of built-up areas you can use your full beams. Just make sure they are dipped when other road users approach.

Drink Driving Laws in the Netherlands

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, lower than in the UK (0.08%). For drivers under 24 or those with less than five years’ driving experience, the limit is stricter at 0.02%. Penalties for drink driving are severe and can include large fines, licence suspension, or even imprisonment.

Using a Mobile Phone Whilst Driving in the Netherlands

You are not allowed to use a handheld mobile phone while driving. Hands-free devices are permitted, but holding your phone or texting is illegal and can result in significant fines.

Child Car Seat Rules

Children under 135 cm in height must use an appropriate child seat or booster. Make sure your rental car provides the correct seat if you’re travelling with children - or bring your own from home.

Parking in the Netherlands

Parking is tightly regulated and varies by city. Look for parking signs and machines, as free street parking is rare in major towns.

• Blue zones: These require a parking disc ('blauwe schijf'), which shows your arrival time. These can be purchased cheaply at petrol stations.
• Paid zones: These are indicated by signage and usually require payment at a meter or on mobile apps.
• Parking illegally can unsurprisingly result in fines or your vehicle being towed.

Low Emission Zones - Milieuzones

Many Dutch cities have low emission zones for diesel vehicles.

In yellow zones, only Euro 3 and above diesel vehicles are allowed.

In green zones, only Euro 4 and abov diesel vehicles are allowed.

Euro emission ratings go from 1 to 7 and can be found in the V5C logbook.

Cities with low emission zones include: Amsterdam, Arnhem, Breda, Delft, Den Bosch, The Hague, Eindhoven, Leiden, Maastricht, Rijswijk, Rotterdam, Tilburg, and Utrecht.

Non-diesel vehicles can enter all zones without restrictions.

Toll Roads in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has very few toll roads. Currently the main ones are:

• The Westerschelde Tunnel
• The Kiltunnel near Dordrecht

Most motorways are toll-free.

Fuel in the Netherlands

Petrol stations are widespread and typically offer unleaded petrol (Euro 95 and 98), diesel, and LPG. Payment can be made with cash or card, but some unmanned stations may only accept card payments. Prices are generally higher than in the UK.

Final Thoughts

Your Dutch roadtrip should be as stress-free as possible and thanks to this guide and rental car excess insurance, it can be!