The Netherlands updates zero-emission zone rules in 2026 with nationwide exemptions, new traffic signs, and extended relief periods. The country continues its sustainable transport leadership while maintaining its unique speed limit structure.
Environmental zones
Before
Per-city exemptionsExemptions from zero-emission zones valid only in the issuing municipality
After (2026)
Nationwide validityZEZ exemptions automatically valid across all Dutch municipalities; apply once, valid everywhere
Environmental zones
Before
Short exemption periodsLimited time exemptions for vehicles without zero-emission alternatives
After (2026)
Up to 13 years exemptionExtended exemptions of 7, 10, or 13 years depending on vehicle category, plus new exemption for areas with grid capacity issues
Environmental zones
Before
Initial ZEZ citiesZero-emission zones in early-adopter cities only
After (2026)
29 municipalities including SchipholZero-emission zones in 29 municipalities by 2030: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Den Haag, Eindhoven, Groningen, and 23 others including Schiphol Airport
Environmental zones
Before
Various local signsDifferent municipalities used different signage for ZEZ and environmental zones
After (2026)
Standardized two-part signNew national sign with upper section showing zone entry and lower section showing excluded vehicle types; all old signs replaced by July 2026
Speed limits
Before
100 km/h daytime (since 2020)Temporary daytime speed reduction introduced in 2020
After (2026)
100 km/h permanent daytimeDaytime (6am-7pm) motorway limit of 100 km/h confirmed as permanent; 130 km/h at night on some sections
Not anymore. From January 2026, zero-emission zone exemptions are automatically valid nationwide. Apply for an exemption once and it works in all Dutch municipalities. Existing exemptions can be extended free of charge with nationwide validity.
New standardized two-part signs replace the old municipal signs. The upper section shows you're entering a restricted zone, while the lower section specifies which vehicle categories are excluded. All municipalities must complete the sign replacement by July 2026.
Yes. The 100 km/h daytime limit (6am-7pm) introduced in 2020 is now permanent legislation. At night (7pm-6am), many motorway sections allow 130 km/h, but always check the electronic signs as limits can vary.
By 2030, 29 Dutch municipalities will have zero-emission zones including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Den Haag, Eindhoven, Groningen, Maastricht, and Schiphol Airport (which became a ZEZ on January 1, 2026). Currently these zones primarily affect commercial vehicles (trucks, buses, vans) - personal cars aren't yet restricted in most zones.
All rule changes are sourced from official government transport agencies and legal publications. AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Rules may be subject to change before their effective dates.
Information last verified: January 15, 2026Everything you need to pass on your first attempt
