NetherlandsNetherlands
Traffic rules
Netherlands
1. Netherlands
The Netherlands is a low-lying country in Western Europe, bordering Belgium and Germany and facing the North Sea. Traffic drives on the right, but one of the most important adjustments for foreign drivers is the very large number of cyclists. The country has an extensive network of cycle paths, and drivers regularly cross or turn across bicycle routes in towns and cities. Water also strongly shapes the road environment, with roads running along canals, dikes, polders and major bridges and tunnels.
Dutch is the official language and is the main language used on text-based road and destination signs. In the province of Fryslân, Frisian is also an official language, and drivers may encounter Frisian place names and local signage. Another distinctive feature is the motorway speed system: on most motorways the daytime limit from 06:00 to 19:00 is 100 km/h, while higher limits of 120 or 130 km/h can apply in the evening and at night; several motorway sections now also permit 130 km/h during the day.
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Which number can you call in an emergency in the Netherlands?
Call 112 for urgent emergency assistance. Give the operator your location and explain what happened.
What is the legal alcohol limit for drivers in the Netherlands?
The maximum blood-alcohol level is 0.5‰ (0.5 g/l) for experienced drivers. A lower limit of 0.2‰ (0.2 g/l) applies to beginning drivers.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Netherlands road rules, Alcohol limits
What speed limits apply to passenger cars in the Netherlands?
Built-up areas: The general maximum speed for motor vehicles is 50 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit. Lower limits such as 30 km/h are common in residential and urban areas.
Outside built-up areas: On ordinary roads outside built-up areas, the general maximum speed for motor vehicles is 80 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit.
Highways: The general maximum speed on an autoweg is 100 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit.
Motorways: From 06:00 to 19:00, the maximum on almost all motorways is 100 km/h, although some sections have an 80 km/h limit and selected sections permit 130 km/h during the day. From 19:00 to 06:00, limits of 100, 120 or 130 km/h apply depending on the road. Always follow the posted or electronic speed limit.
🔗 rijkswaterstaat.nl • Rijkswaterstaat, motorway and autoweg speed limits and electronic signs
What are the seat-belt and child-restraint rules in the Netherlands?
Seat belts must be worn by drivers and passengers on seats equipped with them, subject to specific legal exemptions.
Children under 18 and shorter than 135 cm must normally use an approved child restraint on both front and rear seats. From 135 cm, they use the fitted seat belt. The restraint must suit their size and be fitted and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A rear-facing child seat must not be placed in front of an active frontal airbag. Limited taxi and medical exemptions apply; the ordinary rule still applies when children travel in their own family car or someone else’s car.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Netherlands road rules, Seat belts and child restraints; 🔗 rijksoverheid.nl • Dutch Government, child seats, approvals, airbags and exceptions; 🔗 rijksoverheid.nl • Dutch Government, seat belts and the under-18 scope
Can you use a mobile phone while driving in the Netherlands?
A driver may not hold a mobile electronic device while driving. Hands-free use and the use of a device secured in a holder are permitted, provided this can be done safely. A device may be held when the vehicle is stationary.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Netherlands road rules, Mobile telephone
Can a visitor use a driving licence issued in another EU country in the Netherlands?
Yes. A valid, full EU driving licence is recognised for the vehicle categories it covers. You must meet the applicable minimum age. A learner licence or a temporary replacement certificate does not have the same automatic recognition.
Are motorcycle helmets compulsory in the Netherlands?
Yes. On an ordinary, open motorcycle, both the rider and passenger must wear a protective helmet. Use a helmet that meets the applicable approval requirements and fasten it correctly. Check the specific rules before relying on an exemption for an enclosed or specially equipped vehicle.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Netherlands road rules
