Exchange your foreign licence — or do you need lessons?
Whether you can exchange your foreign driving licence depends on where it was issued. EU/EEA licences and those from a short list of designated countries can usually be swapped for a Dutch one without an exam. Most other expats must pass the Dutch theory and practical exam — which you can do in English.
You can usually exchange if…
- • You hold an EU/EEA licence
- • You have the 30% ruling
- • Your country is a designated country
You likely need a Dutch licence if…
- • Your country isn't designated
- • You have no 30% ruling
- • Your licence has expired / isn't valid
Rules and country lists change. Always confirm your personal situation on the official source: rijksoverheid.nl . We're happy to talk it through during your Trial lesson.
Common questions
I have an EU or EEA driving licence — can I exchange it?+
Generally yes. EU/EEA licence holders living in the Netherlands can drive on their licence for a set period and then exchange it for a Dutch one without re-taking an exam. Check the current rules and time limits for your situation on rijksoverheid.nl.
I have the 30% ruling (highly skilled migrant). Does that help?+
Yes. If you (or a family member) benefit from the 30% ruling, you can usually exchange a licence from outside the EU/EEA without re-taking the exam, regardless of the issuing country. Confirm your eligibility on rijksoverheid.nl.
My licence is from a 'designated country'. What does that mean?+
The Netherlands has a list of designated countries whose licences can be exchanged without an exam. The list changes, so verify whether your country is on it via rijksoverheid.nl before assuming you can exchange.
My country isn't on the list. What now?+
Then you'll need a Dutch licence the normal way: pass the CBR theory exam (available in English) and the practical exam. The good news — you already know how to drive, so a short, focused course is usually enough. We assess exactly how many lessons you need during your Trial lesson.
Can I take the exams in English?+
The CBR theory exam can be taken in English, and our instructors coach you in English for the practical exam. So you never need fluent Dutch to get your licence.
Need to take the exam?
You already drive — a short English course is often enough. Find out how many lessons in a trial lesson.