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Q: What is the maximum legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for experienced drivers in the Netherlands?

0.5 promille (0.5 g/l). The legal BAC limit for experienced drivers in the Netherlands is 0.5 promille (0.5 g/l). Exceeding this results in fines, licence suspension, and potentially criminal charges.

Q: Since July 2025, e-scooters (LEVs) are legal in the Netherlands. Where must they be ridden?

On cycle paths only. E-scooters were legalized on 1 July 2025 as "light electric vehicles" (LEVs). They must use cycle paths, be limited to 25 km/h, carry RDW approval, and have insurance and a registration plate. Riders must be at least 16 years old.

Q: What is the default speed limit in built-up areas (bebouwde kom) in the Netherlands?

50 km/h. The default speed limit in Dutch built-up areas is 50 km/h, unless signs indicate otherwise. Many cities are expanding 30 km/h zones, but 50 km/h remains the legal default.

Q: What is the speed limit on Dutch motorways between 06:00 and 19:00?

100 km/h. Since March 2020, the daytime speed limit on Dutch motorways is 100 km/h (06:00-19:00) to reduce nitrogen emissions. At night (19:00-06:00), the limit is 130 km/h unless otherwise posted.

Q: At an unmarked intersection in the Netherlands, who has priority?

Traffic coming from the right. The "voorrang van rechts" (priority from the right) rule applies at unmarked intersections in the Netherlands. Traffic approaching from the right has priority unless signs or markings indicate otherwise.

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What is the maximum legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for experienced drivers in the Netherlands?

Netherlands

Driving Rules & Facts

1

Right-Hand Traffic — The Netherlands drives on the right. Voorrang van rechts (priority to the right) applies at unmarked intersections. Watch for haaietanden (shark teeth) road markings indicating you must yield.

2

BAC 0.5‰ / 0.2‰ Novice — General limit 0.5‰ (standard EU). Novice drivers (first 5 years) and all drivers under 24: 0.2‰. Since 2017, combined alcohol + drugs automatically triggers the lower 0.2‰ limit.

3

WA Insurance Mandatory — WA (Wettelijke Aansprakelijkheid) third-party liability insurance is mandatory for all motor vehicles. Driving without WA insurance carries severe fines and vehicle seizure.

4

APK Inspection — APK (Algemene Periodieke Keuring) vehicle inspection mandatory. Petrol/electric: first at 4 years, every 2 years until 8, then annually. Diesel/LPG: first at 3 years, then annually. RDW-approved stations.

5

Milieuzones (Environmental Zones) — Many Dutch cities have milieuzones restricting older, polluting vehicles. Zero-emission zones expanding in 2026. Check your vehicle's eligibility before entering city centres.

6

Phone: €440 (Focusflitser!) — Using a mobile phone while driving carries a €440 fine. Since 2025, focusflitser cameras can automatically detect phone use. Hands-free systems are permitted.

How to Get Your Driving License in Netherlands

Everything you need to know about enrolling in a driving school and getting your B license in Netherlands.

Typical Cost

€2,000–€3,000

Total driving school cost including lessons and materials

Prices vary by school, location, and number of lessons needed.

Typical Lessons Needed

~35

60-minute lessons on average

Mandatory Theory Hours

—

No mandatory hours. You can study independently and take the exam when ready.

Mandatory Practical Hours

—

No mandatory hours. Your instructor will recommend how many lessons you need.

License Requirements in Netherlands

Minimum Age18 years old

Theory Exam Fee50.50€

Car License CategoryB

Driving SideRight (drive on the right)

Learner/Provisional LicenseNot applicable

Accompanied DrivingYes, learner must be accompanied

Online Theory StudyYes, available online

Theory Test Languages

The CBR theory test is available in these languages:

DutchEnglish

Tips for Choosing a Driving School in Utrecht

Compare prices from at least 3 schools before enrolling. The cheapest option is not always the best — check what is included in the package.
Ask schools about their pass rates. A higher pass rate often indicates better instruction quality.
If Netherlands's official language is not your first language, ask if the school offers instruction or materials in your language.

Source: Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheidsbewijzen · Last updated: 2026-03-15

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