Converting a Foreign Driver’s License in the Netherlands For Foreigners

Eligibility criteria for foreign driving license exchange in the Netherlands

Before you begin any paperwork, make sure you’re eligible to exchange a driving license in the Netherlands. Here are the eligibility criteria you must meet;

Registration in the Dutch personal records database (BRP)

You must be registered as a resident in the Netherlands in the Dutch personal records database

(Basisregistratie Personen (BRP) if you plan to stay in the country for more than four months. You need to register at your local municipal office (gemeente) with a permanent address and obtain a BSN (citizen service number). Being in the BRP is mandatory for any foreigner applying for a driving license in the Netherlands.

Pro Tip: Make sure your BRP registration is complete and you have a permanent address before applying. 

Valid residence permit

If you’re not an EU/EEA national, you need a valid Dutch residence permit to exchange your license. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens don’t require a residence permit, but must be registered in the BRP. Essentially, you must have legal residence in the Netherlands before converting your license.

Pro Tip: When going for your appointment, always carry your original passport and residence permit to avoid delays. 

Valid foreign driving license

Your foreign driver’s license must be valid at the time of exchange. Expired licenses won’t be accepted unless you're from an EU/EEA country and meet specific conditions. If your license has expired and it’s from outside the EU/EEA, your application will be denied, and you will have to go through the Dutch driving exam process. 

Pro Tip: If your foreign license is expiring soon, renew it in your home country first to avoid complications. 

Country of issue

If your license was issued by a European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) country, you can exchange it for a Dutch one. You’re also allowed to use it for up to 15 years from the issue date, regardless of whether you’re a resident in the Netherlands or not.  

For non-EU licenses, the Netherlands has bilateral exchange agreements with certain countries. You can swap licenses from these countries without a driving test, provided they’re valid. 

Some of the countries with special agreements include Andorra, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Canada (Alberta and Quebec provinces), the UK (Great Britain and Northern Ireland), Israel, Taiwan, Monaco, and a few others. 

Each country has specific eligible categories (for example, Singapore licenses can only exchange categories A and B). If your country isn’t on the approved list, you cannot exchange your license directly. 

Additionally, you can use your non-EU license for up to 185 days after you move to the Netherlands. After that, you can only drive in the Netherlands with a Dutch license. 

30% tax ruling for highly skilled migrants

If you’re a highly skilled migrant eligible for the  30% ruling tax benefit, you can exchange your license regardless of the country of issue. However, you must submit proof of eligibility from the Dutch Tax Administration (Belastingdienst).

This privilege also extends to family members (partner or children) registered at your address under the 30% ruling.

Your foreign license must be valid, and you still need to meet the other requirements, like the personal records database (BRP) registration. Many foreigners take advantage of the 30% ruling to avoid taking the Dutch driving exams.

Pro Tip: Get your 30% ruling statement from your employer or tax administration office (Belastingdienst) early. 

Required documents to exchange your driving license in the Netherlands

Here are the documents you must provide to exchange your driving license in the Netherlands; 

• Valid foreign driving license: The original license from your home country. You will surrender this license during the process, so make a copy for your records or consider getting a duplicate from your home country.
   
• Proof of identity: A valid passport or EU/EEA ID card, and if applicable, your Dutch residence permit. 
   
• BRP registration details: Typically, your BSN (citizen service number) is enough since you have to be registered in the BRP. But have your BSN or proof of address handy just in case.
   
• Passport photograph: A recent passport-sized photo that meets Dutch requirements. Usually 35x45 mm, neutral expression, on a light background. The safest option is to use any of the professional booths near the municipal office. They know the exact requirements needed.
   
• Certificate of fitness (Gezondheidsverklaring): This is a medical declaration from the Dutch driving authority that shows that you're fit to drive. It is required for older applicants and certain license categories, such as bus or commercial driving. 
   
• Residence permit: This is for non-EU/EEA nationals. Ensure your residence permit is valid before booking your appointment to avoid rejection.
   
• 30% ruling statement: If you’re exchanging under the 30% tax ruling, include the official tax office approval letter (Beschikking). Keep a digital and printed copy of your 30% ruling statement, as some municipalities prefer hard copies.
   
• Sworn (certified) translation of your license: If your foreign license is not in Dutch, English, German, or French, you’ll need a sworn translation. Check out our fast, 100% guaranteed accepted certified driver’s license translations to order yours. 
   
• Other documents: In rare cases, additional paperwork may be needed. For example, if your EU license expired while you lived in Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland, you must get a statement from that country’s licensing authority stating they have no objection to you getting a Dutch license. Always check your local municipality’s website for any special requirements based on your situation.

How to convert  your foreign driver’s license in the Netherlands

Converting your foreign driving license starts with confirming your eligibility and getting all the required documents, including your sworn translation. Afterwards, here’s how to exchange your foreign driving license in the Netherlands:

Step 1: Schedule an appointment

Contact your local municipality office (gemeente) to book a time slot to submit a driver’s license exchange application. You can also do this online via the city’s website or by calling their citizen service desk. Appointments might be labelled as “Rijbewijs omwisselen” (driving license exchange).

Pro Tip: Book the appointment before your foreign license usage period expires (for non-EU, that’s within 185 days). Many individuals plan to apply around the 5-6 month mark of living in the Netherlands. Appointment slots can fill up fast, especially in big cities like Amsterdam, where slots are limited, so don’t wait until the last minute. 

Step 2: Submit your application

Go for your appointment with all the required documents we’ve listed above. At the municipality, you’ll fill out an application form to exchange your foreign license for a Dutch one.

You’ll also need to pay the application fee. The fee varies by city but is usually around €40 - €70. Payment is often by debit card at the desk. After payment, your application will be officially submitted.

The city hall will forward your application to the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) for processing. You don’t deal with RDW directly for exchanges; the local office handles it on your behalf. Make sure you get any receipt or reference number for your application before you leave.

Step 3: Surrender your license

Your foreign driving license will be sent to the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) and returned to the issuing country. Once you’ve surrendered your license, you cannot drive until your Dutch license is ready. The municipality will not issue a temporary driving document. 

For example, if you surrender your Japanese driving license, you cannot drive until your Dutch license is ready. If you need it for travel, you’ll have to get an international driving permit. Learn more about international permits in our guide on How to Get an International Driving Permit for Japan.

Step 4: Processing

The RDW processes applications within 2 to 4 weeks. Typically, they may contact the issuing country’s authority to confirm your license record. Delays may happen if they don’t get a response from your licensing authority. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a letter or email stating that your Dutch license is being produced and when it’s expected to be ready for pickup.
 

Step 5: Collection

Once your Dutch license is ready, you’ll get a notice from your municipality to come pick it up. Generally, the letter from RDW says you can pick it up about 5 working days later. Some cities might offer to mail it to you, but in most cases, you’ll go in person to collect it. When picking up, bring your ID (passport/ID card) for verification and double-check the details on your driving license on the spot. 

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Do you need a sworn (certified) translation of your driver’s license?

If your foreign license is not in Dutch, English, German, or French, you’ll need a sworn (certified) translation when converting it in the Netherlands. 

Dutch authorities require a sworn translation to ensure that all information on your document is accurately and legally represented in the required language. This helps verify your validity and authenticity during the conversion process. Without a certified translation, your application may be delayed or rejected.

A sworn translation in the Netherlands is often accompanied by 

• Certificate of translation accuracy attesting to the authenticity of the document 
• Translator or translation company credentials 
• Date of translation 
• Official stamps from the court.

The certified translation rates vary between $20 and $100, depending on the volume, delivery timeline, and document complexity.

Pro Tip: Use a translator or a company authorised to offer sworn translations in the Netherlands for accuracy and 100% acceptance. 

Countries with special license exchange agreements

The Netherlands allows direct license exchange for residents from certain countries, thanks to reciprocal agreements. Aside from EU/EFTA nations (which are always eligible), the following countries/jurisdictions have special license exchange agreements with the Netherlands:

• Andorra
   
• Canada – only the provinces of Alberta and Québec (Category B only)
   
• United Kingdom – Great Britain and Northern Ireland (all categories; note: BE trailer category from GB only if a separate exam was passed)
   
• Gibraltar
   
• Guernsey (Channel Islands)
   
• Jersey (Channel Islands)
   
• Isle of Man
   
• Singapore (Categories A and B only)
   
• Japan (Categories A and B only)
   
• South Korea (Category B only)
   
• Israel (Category B only)
   
• Taiwan (Chinese Taipei) (Category B only)
   
• Monaco
   
• Former Netherlands Antilles – Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Maarten (all categories)

The full list is available on the RDW website. Always double-check your country’s status before applying. If your country is not on this list, you cannot directly exchange your license (unless you qualify for the 30% tax ruling exception). 

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Fees for converting your foreign driver’s license

Here’s a breakdown of the costs of a driving license exchange in the Netherlands:

Application fee

The application fee varies by municipality but typically is around €40 to €70. For example, Amsterdam charges roughly €48 for a license exchange. Smaller towns might be a bit cheaper or about the same. If you need your license urgently, some municipalities offer an expedited service for an extra charge, but for most exchanges, standard processing is fine.

Health certificate

The CBR charges about €44 – €50 for the health certificate. It is important if you are required to get a health certificate (certificate of fitness) from CBR.

Translation and Legalization

Sworn (certified) translation costs can vary based on language and provider, but typically range from $25 to $100. Using professional services like Translayte ensures that Dutch authorities accept your translation. You can request a quote to determine the cost. In most cases, you won’t need to legalize your license for the exchange. The Netherlands relies on direct verification with the issuing country instead. However, if requested, the cost ranges from $100 - $300 per document for apostille services.

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Processing time and driving restrictions

Processing duration

The processing time for a foreign license exchange is between 2 to 4 weeks. The official guideline from RDW is about 15 working days for processing, plus a few days for the license card production and delivery. Many foreigners report getting their approval letter in roughly two weeks, then the license is ready for pickup a week after that, so around 3 weeks total.

Driving restrictions

Driving on a foreign license in the Netherlands (before exchange)

If you have an EU/EEA license, you can drive in the Netherlands for up to 15 years until it expires. If you have a non-EU license, you can only drive for 185 days after registering as a resident. After 185 days, your foreign license is no longer valid for driving in the Netherlands, and you must stop driving until you get a Dutch license.

No driving during the exchange process

Once you submit your license for exchange, you are not allowed to drive until you receive the Dutch license.

Driving after exchange (with a Dutch license)

Once you have the Dutch license, you’re subject to Dutch rules. A normal car license (B) in the Netherlands is valid for 10 years (or shorter if you’re older than a certain age). If you exchanged heavy vehicle categories (C, D), those expire in 5 years and require periodic medical exams to renew.

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Special cases and exceptions

30% tax ruling

The 30% ruling is a tax benefit for highly skilled migrant employees. It allows you to exchange your foreign license in the Netherlands regardless of the issuing country. With this, you don’t have to take the Dutch driving tests. 

This benefit also extends to family members. For example, if your spouse moved with you and is registered at your address, they can exchange their license under your 30% ruling status. 

To use the 30% ruling, you must have an official statement from the tax office stating that you’re eligible. You’ll then submit that with your application, and the local municipality will forward it to RDW.

While this is a shorter way to exchange your driving license in the Netherlands, your foreign license still needs to be valid, and you need to meet all other criteria. 

Pro Tip: If you have the 30% ruling, apply for the exchange as soon as you’re settled to avoid the 185-day confusion.

Specific country agreements

The Netherlands, being part of international agreements, has some unique exceptions for license holders from specific countries. Here’s what you should know; 

• If you fall under the Turkey Association Agreement (Decision 1/80) or are a family member of someone who does, you may have some rights to exchange your license even if you’re not an EU citizen. This is a niche situation, and you’d likely know if it applies.
   
• Due to the Temporary Protection Directive, Ukrainians in the Netherlands (with residence permit code 46) can continue driving on their Ukrainian license, even if expired, but they cannot exchange it for a Dutch one (unless they qualify for the 30% ruling). However, they can take the Dutch theory and practical driving test and apply. 
   
• If you had a Dutch license issued after 30 June 1985 that you no longer have, you may exchange your current foreign license to regain your old Dutch license category.
   
• The Netherlands still treats UK licenses after Brexit as exchangeable by agreement. So you can exchange your UK licenses directly. 
   
• Only licenses from Alberta and Quebec in Canada are accepted for exchange. Others will require you to take a test. 
   
• If you have multiple national licenses (For example, you exchanged your home country license for a UK one before moving to the Netherlands), the one you present for exchange should be eligible. 

Expired EU/EEA licenses

Expired EU/EEA licenses are usually accepted for exchange in the Netherlands. The logic is that if it was valid once and you’re now a resident here, they’ll let you convert it rather than making you start over. But, there are some caveats:

• If it’s expired for a very long time, the municipality might ask for extra proof that it was yours and valid (perhaps a driving record).
   
• For certain countries like Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, if your license has expired, you need a note from the country’s authority saying they have no objections to you getting a new license. This is referred to as a Certificate of No Objection.
   
• If your EU license is expiring soon (or already), you should apply to exchange it sooner rather than later. Don’t wait until it’s expired for years before exchanging it. 

Note: If your foreign non-EU license expires while you’re in the Netherlands, you cannot exchange it. It must be valid at the time of application. Otherwise, you’ll have to take the driving tests. 

Pro Tip: Contact your home country’s licensing authority for a Certificate of No Objection if your EU license has expired.

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When exchange is not possible

If your foreign license is not eligible for an exchange, you’ll have to take the Dutch driving tests. Here’s what to do when exchange is not an option:

Testing requirement

You’ll need to pass both the theory and practical Dutch driving exams administered by the CBR (Dutch Central Office for Driver Testing). 

The theory test can be taken in English (and other languages with a translator) if you’re not fluent in Dutch. Once you pass the theory, you’ll take practical driving lessons and then the road test. 

The Dutch driving exam can be quite challenging, with pass rates typically ranging between 50% and 60%. Make sure to study and practice thoroughly. Additionally, do not be discouraged if you do not succeed on your first attempt. Many individuals have taken the exam multiple times, with some passing only after five or more attempts. You can read their stories to learn a few things you may need.

Driving school enrollment

While not an official requirement, it’s highly recommended to enrol in a driving school to prepare for the driving tests. A local driving instructor will help you get familiar with Dutch road rules (like the infamous priority-to-the-right rule, bicycle-heavy traffic, etc.). 

They’ll also advise you on how to navigate the CBR test routes and what the examiners look for.

If you’re an experienced driver, you might not need many lessons, just a few to get used to the Dutch specifics. For the theory exam, consider using online practice tests or attending a theory course (there are English study materials available).

Pro Tip: Even if you exchange your license, take a couple of lessons to understand Dutch traffic signs and cyclist priority

Health certificate

When applying for a Dutch license by taking the test route, you’ll still be required to submit a health certificate. For most young, healthy drivers, it’s a formality, you get the certificate quickly. If you indicate any medical issues, CBR might require a doctor’s examination or specialist sign-off before declaring you fit to drive.

Pro Tip: Complete the health certificate early if you’re taking the test. It can delay your exam if not approved.

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How to get an official translation of a driver's license in the Netherlands?

You can get certified translation services in the Netherlands through a professional translator, translation company, or the Consulate in the foreign country that issued the driving license. 

Here are the steps to get an official translation of a driver's license in the Netherlands from Translayte: 

1. Visit the Translayte website. 
2. Click on “Order Certified Translation”.
3. Select “Sworn Translation”, select the target and source language, and your preferred turnaround time. 
4. Upload the foreign driver’s license you want to translate. Ensure you’ve named the file correctly. 
5. Select either the Standard, Specialist, or Professional certified translation services, based on your needs and budget.
6. Include any other specifications you prefer for your document. E.g. notarised translation, apostille, or paper copy delivery
7. Pay translation fees and place your order. Your translation will be delivered to you either by email or by post on or before the stipulated time.

How Translayte can help you drive legally in the Netherlands

Translayte provides sworn translation services for driver's license conversions in the Netherlands. Here's how we can assist you:

• Sworn (Certified) translations: We provide sworn (certified) translations that include a signed statement attesting to accuracy and completeness, meeting Dutch legal standards. This ensures that Dutch authorities accept your driving license translation.
• Rapid turnaround: Our delivery time for certified translation is as little as 12 hours. You can also access our services on weekends and holidays.
• 24/7 support: At Translayte, you can access 24/7 multilingual assistance anytime via chat, email, SMS, phone, or WhatsApp.
• Global acceptance: Translayte's sworn (certified) translations are recognised by governments, universities, and courts worldwide. 
• Transparent pricing: Our sworn (certified) translation rates start from $58 per page, with no hidden charges. Before ordering online, you can also request a free quote for an accurate cost.

Choosing Translayte ensures that your driver’s license translation is accurate, compliant, and delivered promptly.