How to exchange a foreign driving licence in the Netherlands
Exchange eligibility depends on the issuing country, licence validity, residence history and whether the Dutch Tax Administration granted the 30% ruling. The municipality receives the application and sends it to RDW.
Which route applies?
| Licence situation | General position |
|---|---|
| EU or EFTA licence | Normally exchangeable when the RDW conditions are met |
| Listed non-EU/EFTA country | Exchange may be possible for the categories listed by RDW |
| Other non-EU/EFTA country | Normally not exchangeable unless an exception applies |
| Valid 30% ruling decision | RDW states that a licence from any country can be exchanged when all conditions are met |
| Previously held Dutch licence | An exchange route may exist for categories held on a qualifying former Dutch licence |
Core conditions
The licence must satisfy the applicable validity rules. You must normally have lived in the issuing country for at least 185 days in the year you obtained it. For a non-EU/EFTA licence that depends on the 30% ruling, bring the valid Dutch Tax Administration decision.
Documents and process
- Check the issuing country and licence category in the current RDW list.
- Confirm licence validity and the 185-day residence evidence.
- Arrange a compliant colour passport photo.
- Obtain a certified translation when the licence uses characters not used in the Netherlands.
- Complete the CBR Health Declaration when required.
- Apply at your municipality with the original licence and supporting documents.
- The municipality forwards the application to RDW.
- After approval and production, collect the Dutch licence from the municipality.
Driving while the application is processed
You must be able to show a valid driving licence when driving. After surrendering the physical licence, police may be able to verify the pending exchange, but RDW notes that a fine risk remains. RDW advises against driving in other countries during the exchange because foreign authorities may not verify the application.
If exchange is impossible
You will normally need to pass the CBR theory and practical tests to obtain a Dutch licence. Start before the permitted foreign-licence driving period ends.
Frequently asked questions
Can the 30% ruling make my licence exchangeable?
Yes. RDW states that a person benefiting from the 30% ruling can exchange a licence from any country when the other conditions are met. Bring the valid decision.
Will RDW return my foreign licence?
No. RDW states that the surrendered foreign licence is not returned.
Where do I apply?
At your municipality. Only the municipality submits the exchange application to RDW.
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RDW: Exchanging a foreign licenceRDW: Driving with a foreign licenceCBR: Health declarationInformational guidance only. Requirements depend on your facts and can change. Verify decisions with the responsible authority.