Driver's license in the Netherlands for foreigners | DrivePoint
Netherlands

Driver's license in the Netherlands for foreigners — we handle everything

CBR theory exams in English, rijschool selection and the full RDW paperwork. Built for internationals who need a Dutch license quickly and correctly.

100% official process · final payment on result

A canal in Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Why get your license in the Netherlands

  • The CBR offers the official theory exam in English — one of the few countries in Europe where this is standard.
  • Dutch driver training is high quality and the practical exam is respected across Europe.
  • Rijscholen in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht are used to international students.
  • Highly skilled migrants with the 30% ruling can often exchange a non-EU license without exams.
  • A Dutch license is valid throughout the EU and straightforward to use worldwide.

How it works in the Netherlands

1

Eligibility check

We check whether you can exchange your license through the RDW — including the 30% ruling route — or need the full CBR path.

2

Health declaration and registration

We handle your gezondheidsverklaring with the CBR and register you with a partner rijschool that teaches in English.

3

CBR theory and practical exams

The theory exam is booked in English, then the practical exam with your instructor. We book, prepare and reschedule when needed.

4

The RDW issues your license

After you pass, your gemeente and the RDW process the license. We confirm the timing and the collection point.

Documents you'll typically need

  • Passport or ID and your BSN number
  • Proof of registration with your gemeente
  • Gezondheidsverklaring filed with the CBR
  • Recent passport photo meeting Dutch requirements
  • Your current license plus a translation where required
  • Residence permit and, where relevant, the 30% ruling decision

The exact list depends on your city and your situation — we'll put together your personal checklist for free.

New license vs. exchange in the Netherlands

Getting a new license

Without a license you take the CBR route: health declaration, theory exam in English, lessons with a partner rijschool and the practical exam. We handle every booking and keep the schedule moving, which matters when CBR slots are scarce.

Exchanging a foreign license

EU and EEA licenses can be exchanged directly at your gemeente. Non-EU licenses can be exchanged if you hold the 30% ruling or come from a designated country; otherwise the CBR route applies. We check your status before you commit to anything.

Our partner driving schools in the Netherlands

A selection of the partner driving schools we work with here. We match you with the one that fits your city, language and budget.

De Rijscholen Concurrent logo

De Rijscholen Concurrent

Easydriving logo

Easydriving

Rijschool Graduate

RijLESS.nl

ANWB Rijopleiding

English Driving School

Autorijschool Dutch Driving

Rijschool GO

Amsterdamse Verkeersopleidingen

Rijschool Baas

Avanti Rijschool

Rijschool deRijk (Den Haag)

Frequently asked about the Netherlands

Yes. The CBR offers an official English-language theory exam, which is one reason the Netherlands is a comfortable country for internationals to get licensed in.

If you hold a valid 30% ruling decision, you and your family members can usually exchange a foreign license without taking exams. We verify eligibility and file the exchange.

They vary by region and season and can be significant. We book as early as possible and monitor for earlier slots so your schedule doesn't slip.

Start your case in the Netherlands

No obligation and no cost for the first consultation. Write in English, Spanish or Russian — whichever is easier for you.

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