Driving in Holland
Learn more about driving in Holland
Holland is a famously laid-back country, but there are certain rules and customs that you should be aware of before driving in Holland.
For example, trams always have the right of way – and so do cyclists and moped riders. There are variations as to which traffic has precedence on roundabouts. On some roundabouts it’s the traffic entering, and others it’s the traffic already going round. There are also laws about sounding your horn in built-up areas too, so flashing of headlights is the usual alternative.
These are mainly urban considerations, and outside of the cities the motorway system is excellent, and what’s more, totally toll-free!
What do I need to drive in Holland?
If you're planning to travel to Holland by car, don't forget to pack the essential items needed to make your journey safe and comfortable:
- UK' sticker, unless the registration plates have the UK logo on them
- Registration and insurance documents
- Crash helmets (motorcycles & mopeds only)
- Headlight converters
What side of the road do you drive on in Amsterdam?
The Dutch drive on the right and give priority to the right, unless otherwise indicated.
What documents do you need when driving in Amsterdam?
- Full, valid UK driving licence
- Proof of ID
- Motor insurance certificate / valid car insurance
- V5 registration document
What are the legal requirements for driving in Holland?
Driving to Amsterdam from the UK is easier than you think, but there are certain driving rules and customs that you should be aware of when in Holland.
For example, trams always have right of way – cyclists and moped riders have the same rights as other drivers. There are also laws about sounding your horn in built-up areas (flashing of headlights is the usual alternative).
These are mainly urban considerations & outside of the cities the motorway system is excellent & totally toll-free!
Dutch Driving Laws:
- Children under 1.35m in height can only travel in the front seats of a vehicle if they are using an approved child seat that is appropriate for their age and size
- Children under 3 years old are permitted to travel in the front seats if using a rear-facing child seat with the airbag deactivated
- Busses and trams always have priority over cars
- Wearing seatbelts is a legal requirement
- In cases of illegal parking, a car may be towed or a fine issued
- It’s prohibited to drive with only sidelights at night
Is there a speed limit in Holland?
Netherlands Speed Limits:
- Built up areas: 31mph or 50km/h
- Outside built-up areas: 49mph or 80km/h
- Motorways: maximum speed of 100kmh from 06:00 to 19:00
- There is a minimum speed limit of 37mph or 60km/h on motorways
- Vehicles can be confiscated in cases of excessive speeding
- It is illegal to carry any radar-detecting equipment
Additional info
- All drivers in Holland must have 3rd party insurance or above
- For a guide to Dutch road signs, download our PDF – make sure to learn the give way to trams sign!
- Never cross a solid white line
- At junctions, you have right of way where there's a yellow and white diamond-shaped sign - and you have to give way where there's a row of white triangular signs on the road
- Whilst not compulsory, it is recommended that you take a warning triangle
- The Emergency number, Europe-wide, from mobiles and landlines is 112
