Let’s set the scene! You’re at your first Dutch Carnival in your costume or maybe supporting your first Nederlands football match and bopping along to Dutch music you don’t understand.
And what’s next in the queue? Links Rechts. 🕺
Dutchies go wild, jumping from left to right in a line during the chorus, holding each other’s shoulders.
You can’t help but laugh at how ridiculous it looks — buuut also how fun, so you decide to join in, having your toes squished in the process with all the jumping and beer spilling all over your shoes.
What is it?
It’s a well-known Dutch song that came out in 2015 by the Dutch party act, Snollebollekes.
While the song wasn’t a hit at first, you can find it in the Dutch Single Top 100 during every Carnival. It gets a fair few streams if the Netherlands is playing football, too.
The oranje fans know how to show support, turning Snollebollekes into a viral sensation across Europe (even taking #1 on the German Spotify chart).
It’s a fun and social song that makes Dutchies grab their beers, grab their friends and start dancing and hollering the lyrics at the top of their lungs.
Carnival in the Netherlands usually runs around late February to early March, but some festivities may happen before or after those weeks!
Why do they do it?
Carnival is a time when Dutchies can let loose, have fun by dressing up, go out with their friends, and simply enjoy drinking and dancing the night away with no stress and no worries. 🕺
Links Rechts is a rite of passage that is played every single year multiple times.
Got beer? Seeing Dutchies dance to this song when they’re drunk is a sight you don’t want to miss during Carnival.
Why is it quirky?
Links Rechts is anything but ordinary, just like true Dutchies. 😜
This song makes Dutchies come together and show their true love for their country. If you ask any Dutch people if they know this song, most likely the answer is: ‘tuurlijk!
But since it’s been such a hit at the 2024 European Champs held in Germany, there’s actually talk of releasing a German version… 👀
Should you join in?
Want to be truly integrated into Dutch culture? Singing and dancing to this song will make that happen.
someday, I hope Tomorrowland plays Snollebollekes’s “Links Rechts”. That is massive crowd control from the Netherlands.
You’re seated in a tastefully decorated Dutch restaurant, where a linen tablecloth brushes your legs, a candle flickers gently on the table, and mouthwatering, artfully designed food is placed in front of you.
Your attractive Dutch date sits across from you. As they take their first sumptuous bite, their pupils dilate in approval.
Then, chaos: their hand drops the fork on the plate, swings up to their ear, and frantically waves back and forth next to their head.
Are they choking? Are they experiencing a seizure?
Nah — they just think the food is really damn delicious.
What is the lekker wave?
Welcome all to the lekker wave, a simple motion performed in the Netherlands that says “Yum!”
The rules of the lekker wave are simple: if something is delicious, you bring your flat hand to your ear or cheek and give it a little wave. It looks a little like this:
As an optional add-on, you can simultaneously choose to say “lekkerrrrrr” to show your undying approval of the dish that you’re eating. 👋
Why do they do it?
Apart from being ridiculously handy when your waiter has the impeccable timing to ask, ‘How is your meal?’ directly after you’ve taken a ginormous bite, no one knows the true origin of the lekker wave.
Anne Baker, professor of General Linguistics and Dutch Sign Language at the University of Amsterdam, told Rijmond in 2014 that the famous sign actually isn’t a sign at all — it’s a gesticulation.
What’s the difference (apart from eight letters?) A gesticulation is a gesture that’s used in addition to spoken language. Does it change anything?
Not really — because the origins are destined to remain a deep, Dutch secret. 🤫
Why is it quirky?
The lekker wave is ridiculously Dutch — but Dutchies just don’t know it.
Many Dutchies, over time, have been caught waving their hands next to their face, only to be met by mystified international faces across the table.
Some overly enthusiastic Dutchies abroad may have even been unluckily met by an unwanted Heimlich manoeuvre.
Should you join in?
Absolutely! The amazing thing about this Dutch quirk is that almost anyone can do it, and it will be understood — as long as you’re in the Netherlands, of course. 😉 🇳🇱
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in November 2021 and was fully updated in September 2023 for your reading pleasure.
To get or not to get bike insurance in the Netherlands? — that’s the question. And it’s a valid one: after all, if you live in the beautiful lowlands, your bike is one of your most prized possessions.
But how does bike insurance even work? What does it cover? And, very importantly, how much does it cost?
There’s a lot to know about bike insurance in the Netherlands — and our ultimate guide will answer all your burning questions.
Got a specific question in mind? Pedal to a section below. 🚴♀️
Do I have to take out bike insurance in the Netherlands?
The short answer to this question is nee. Unlike car insurance, bicycle insurance in the Netherlands is not legally mandatory.
This means that whether you should get insurance for your fiets is entirely up to your own discretion. That being said, certain types of bikes have a theft rate of up to 90%, so for those, it’s certainly worth considering.
Pas op! Especially e-bikes are heavily targeted by bike thieves. Image: Freepik
So, while you don’t have to take out bike insurance, you should still consider whether or not you need it. This is especially true if you:
Tend to park your bike in “risky” areas (we’re looking at you, people who leave their unlocked bike near random canals on nights out).
Often leave your bike unattended for long periods (at the train station, for example).
Have an expensive bike or a (much-desired) e-bike.
Insuring your bike in the Netherlands can have many advantages. Your bike is damaged? Insurance has it covered. Was it stolen from a public place? You’ll get your money back in no time!
Oh, and it’s much cheaper than you may think. 👀
How much does it cost to insure my bike in the Netherlands?
Now for the information you’ve all been waiting for: how much does bike insurance cost in the Netherlands?
Though prices vary depending on factors such as your postal code, the type of bike you ride, and your age, there’s bike insurance out there that’ll cost you a mere few euros per month.
Yup, prices for basic insurance can start as low as €2.27 per month for a normal stadfiets. But even insuring that fancy e-bike (which we highly recommend you do) can be as cheap as just €5 per month! Think about it: that’s less than a venti caramel frappuccino from Starbucks. 💁
Looking to get great bike insurance that’s also goedkoop (cheap)? Check out Univé. Starting at only €2.27per month, they offer one of the most affordable insurance policies out there — for anything from traditional bikes to cargobikes or e-bikes. On top of that, they offer great discounts on insurance packages. Ka-ching! 💸
Generally speaking, you’ll find bike insurance in the following price ranges:
Traditional bikes: €3-€10 per month
E-Bikes: €5–€15 per month
Fat Bikes: €7–€20 per month
Wanna get even more bang for your buck? Dat kan! Many insurance companies offer package deals which let you combine your bike insurance with, for example, your car or liability insurance.
Bike insurance is much more affordable than you’d think. Image: Depositphotos
What types of bike insurance can you get in the Netherlands?
Here’s where we get into the nitty-gritty. As with any type of insurance, there are many options to consider when insuring your bike.
Expiring bike insurance (Aflopende fietsverzekering)
Expiring (e-)bike insurance is a type of insurance that automatically ends after a period of three or five years. The premium is paid in one go at the beginning of the cycle.
Let’s say you have a normal bike which you bought for €300. With expiring insurance that covers theft and damage, you’d be looking at a lump sum of around €70 for three years of coverage.
If you have an e-bike which you bought for, say €1,200, then the same three-year contract would cost you around €100 in total.
Continuous bike insurance (Doorlopende fietsverzekering)
If you get continuous bike insurance, your insurance takes the form of a “subscription”. Your premium is paid monthly (or (bi-)annually), and after a year, it can be cancelled on a monthly basis.
In terms of pricing, a continuous policy is often slightly more expensive than an expiring one.
With a normal bike, continuous insurance for theft and damage would cost you around €90 for three years (€2.76 per month). For an e-bike costing €1,200, you’re looking at around €110 for three years (€3.10 per month).
All-risk coverage
With all risk insurance, you can cycle with true peace of mind. Image: Depositphotos
All-risk coverage means you’re covered against — surprise — all risks. This includes theft, but also damage to your (e-)bike and e-bike charger, for example, in the case of an accident, fire, or fall.
With some insurance companies, you might have to cover a deductible of up to €35 for the damage (this is called eigen risico, or own risk).
Theft coverage only
With theft coverage, your bike is insured only in the case of theft. This includes theft of things that are “attached” to your bicycle, such as a children’s seat or a basket.
Theft coverage usually does not apply to “loose” accessories like GPS equipment. However, these can be insured separately as part of your policy.
Naturally, this option is cheaper than all-risk coverage.
Are there any requirements I need to fulfil to get Dutch bike insurance?
Understandably, the main requirement for bike insurance in the Netherlands is having a good lock on your bike. This lock will have to be approved by your insurance company. ✅
Most insurers require that you use an ART-certified lock, and they’ll want proof of that if your bike is stolen (so hold onto that receipt!). ART is a Dutch certification that tests locks for toughness against theft. If your lock doesn’t meet the insurer’s standards, your insurance claim could be denied.
On top of that, when you sign up for bike insurance, you will also need to provide basic information such as your bicycle’s frame number and the number of spare keys you have.
Let op! Recently, more and more insurance companies have made it increasingly difficult to insure specific kinds of bicycles, or have opted out of it completely. This mostly concerns so-called fatbikes and e-bakfietsen by the company Urban Arrow.
The reason? These bikes are extremely popular among sneaky bike thieves and have a very high percentage of reported thefts. According to recent statistics, 90% of allfat bikes are reported stolen, writes de Volkskrant. 😳
What’s not covered by bike insurance?
While bike insurance in the Netherlands offers great protection, there are some common exclusions that could leave you out of luck if you’re not careful. For example, most insurers won’t cover damage if you’re using your bike for commercial purposes, such as food delivery or courier work.
Delivery biker? Make sure to check with your insurance if your bike is covered. Image: Depositphotos
You’ll also need to prove ownership (usually with a receipt), or you might not get reimbursed if your bike is stolen. Accessories like baskets or phone holders generally aren’t covered unless your whole bike is damaged in the same incident.
And if your bike gets pinched but wasn’t secured with an approved lock? That’s usually a no-go for claims. So, make sure to check the fine print and stay within the lines of your policy to avoid surprises.
How do I choose the right bike insurance for me?
Choosing the right bicycle insurance is an important task. After all, you want your beloved fiets to be insured as best as possible — while (ideally) paying as little as possible. 😉
That being said, the best bike insurance for you might not be the best for the next person, and it’s all highly dependent on everyone’s individual situation.
You can easily compare prices and policies online. Image: Freepik
The best thing you can do is compare different insurance providers’ prices and policies. Other than that, it might be worth checking if your current insurance company offers any special deals for bike insurance.
Looking to skip the hassle of comparing providers? We recommend Univé. And we’re not the only ones: Univé was voted the best bike insurer by the Consumentenbond (a Dutch non-profit which promotes consumer protection). They offer insurance for anything from bicycles to e-bikes (and much more!).
What do I do if my bike gets stolen/damaged?
Uh-oh, something happened to your bike! Well, aren’t you glad you have insurance? 😉
Here’s what to do next:
If your bike is stolen in the Netherlands
If your bike is stolen in the Netherlands, first of all, we’re sorry. There is some good news, though: your insurance can help you out!
Before you contact your insurer, you should first contact the police. No, this isn’t because you’re a drama queen — you need a police report to file a claim.
Once that’s done, you can file a claim with your insurer. This can usually be done online, and all you’ll need is your frame number and police report.
Thousands of bikes get stolen in Amsterdam each year! Image: Freepik
It’s worth noting that where your bike was stolen plays a role in what you should do next:
If your bicycle was stolen from a locked-up space inside your house, you can go to either your bicycle insurance or most household contents insurance.
If it was stolen outside your home, yourfietsvezekering (bike insurance) should cover it.
Tip: Before you report your bike as stolen, make sure to check your local fietsdepot first! Here, the municipality will drop off bikes that were wrongly parked. You can normally get your bike back by paying a fine of around €30 (depending on your municipality).
If your bike gets damaged in the Netherlands
A damaged bike is no fun — especially if it’s broken to the point where you can’t ride it anymore.
But you can rest assured — if you’re insured, your bike insurance will cover the cost of your repair. All you have to do is file a claim. Most often, this can be done online.
It’s important to note that your insurance will not cover damage that has occurred from regular wear and tear, insufficient maintenance and meteorological influences. This means the only type of damage that is covered by insurance is that which is the result of an accident.
Filing and submitting your bike insurance claim
Before starting the claims process, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. You’ll typically need:
A copy of your police report
Proof of ownership (like a purchase receipt)
Lock certificate or proof of ART-approved lock
Photos of the bike (if you have them)
Your insurance policy number
Once your documents are in order, you can fill out the claim form with information about the incident — where it happened, when, and any relevant circumstances. Upload your supporting documents and submit your claim.
Next up, your insurer will begin their assessment. If the claim is approved, you’ll either receive a payout to replace your bike or, in some cases, get a new one through a partner bike shop. The process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the insurer and the complexity of the claim, but it’s well worth it to get your money back.
Bicycles are integral to Dutch life — so why not take care of them accordingly? With bike insurance, you can pedal with peace of mind and fully enjoy the ease of getting around on your beloved fiets.
Do you have bicycle insurance in the Netherlands? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
Bike insurance in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions
How much is bike insurance in the Netherlands?
You can insure your bike in the Netherlands for just a few euros per month! For a normal bike, you’ll be looking at a cost of around €2.50 to €5 per month, while e-bike insurance might cost you a little over €10 per month.
Do I have to get bike insurance in the Netherlands?
No, you don’t have to get bicycle insurance in the Netherlands — and it’s not mandatory by law. If you have an expensive bike, however, it’s definitely something worth considering.
Is bike insurance a thing in the Netherlands?
In the country that’s most famous for biking, bicycle insurance is almost as big of a thing as car insurance. After all, people here rely on their bikes daily.
Does everyone have bike insurance in the Netherlands?
While not everyone in the Netherlands has bike insurance, many do. Especially people who have expensive e-bikes or bakfietsen tend to insure them.
Does contents insurance in the Netherlands cover my bike?
To some degree, contents insurance in the Netherlands does cover your bike in case of theft or damage. That is only the case, however, if the theft or damage occurs in your home.
Not even PostNL seems to know how the new process is supposed to work. “To date, US customs has not given any clarity on how these packages should be allowed to enter the US,” they write in a statement.
On August 22, Deutsche Post and DHL Parcel Germany also put a temporary pause on sending business parcels to the US through their regular postal network.
But don’t panic completely: letters are still safe! So your handwritten postcards from Amsterdam can keep flowing.
Can my package still reach the States?
Yes, it definitely can. Not all hope is lost.
Even with PostNL hitting pause, there are still ways to get your packages to the US (they just might be pricey).
If you don’t want to spend too much, the sole option left is to post your package via DHL in Germany, but only if the package is registered as a gift and it’s worth less than $100. Anything above that will require costly express shipping.
When will this mess get sorted?
PostNL says they’re working with European partners and USPS (United States Postal Service) on a fix, but… no ETA yet.
So, Americans: you might have to wait a little longer for your favourite Dutch treats.
Will you be affected by this change? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
Last week, the Netherlands was shaken by the murder of 17-year-old Lisa, who was violently killed on Tuesday night while cycling home from a night out in Amsterdam with friends.
Her death has sparked outrage across the country and brought to light the ongoing conversation about violence against women in the Netherlands.
marking one week since Lisa’s death, Amsterdam’s nightclubs and the A’DAM tower will be illuminated on Tuesday night to raise awareness for violence against women.
Right to the night
According to the NOS, the nightclubs and tower will be illuminated with the colour orange. Orange is used by the UN to raise awareness about the violence women face across the world.
The clubs will also project the words “Recht op de nacht” (right to the night) across their venues.
These are the words that many of us have seen across our Instagrams over the past few days, and are taken from an Instagram post written by Dutch author, Nienke ‘s Gravemade.
The post was shared widely, saying, among other things: “I claim the night. I claim the streets. I demand that the fear be shifted. I demand 24 hours in my day. I demand that 17-year-old girls come home safely.”
This initiative was organised by Amsterdam’s Night Mayor Freek Wallagh, along with the Amsterdam Club Consultation. The action will start at 10 PM on Tuesday night.
We claim the night
Another message is also spreading across the country through the use of billboards. Many advertisements near stations and along motorways are displaying the message “Wij eisen de nacht op” (we claim the night).
Speaking with NU.nl, organiser Danique de Jong says, “Now we have to keep talking about it and make some progress. We need to offer men perspectives for action. Because it’s a male-dominated issue.”
If you’re considering getting a driving licence in the Netherlands, your first question is probably: “But how?”
And let us tell you: it’s not always simple. The answer depends on your situation. You might:
Be able to use your home country’s driver’s licence with no need to swap
Be able to swap your home country’s driver’s licence for a Dutch one
Need to take lessons, a theory exam, and a practical exam (yikes!) — even if you already have a licence.
After three years of living in the Netherlands, I finally went through this process, including taking the theory exam, driving lessons, and the practical exam. I’m now the proud owner of my very own Dutch licence!
So how can you skip the bike and hit the roads like a driving Dutchie? Here’s the ultimate guide to getting your Dutch driver’s licence.
🙋♀️ Who can get a Dutch driving licence?
In the Netherlands, from 16.5 years old, teenagers can begin taking driver’s lessons. Anyone aged 17 or older can take the Dutch practical driving exam. A basic car licence lets people hit the road in either a car, moped, or high-powered e-bike (speed pedelec).
Naturally, if you’ve moved to the Netherlands as an international, it’s likely that you’ve already gone through the rite of passage of getting your driving licence in your home country.
Here’s the thing: even if you’ve been driving for 30 years, the Netherlands only allows some people to directly switch their foreign license. Whether you can depends on the license your country is from and, sometimes, your visa.
Not everyone can drive on their home country’s driving licence. Image: DutchReview
Members of EU/EEA countries
Are you the holder of a lucky EU or EEA state driving licence that was issued before you registered in the Netherlands? Then congratulations: you can use your current licence to drive in the Netherlands — at least for a while.
Once your licence has expired or needs to be reissued, you must apply for the switch at your local Dutch gemeente (municipality), where you’ll be issued a shiny new licence complete with the Dutch language. The driving licence category on your EU/EEA license must match the vehicle you intend to drive in the Netherlands.
Need a reminder of those EU/EEA countries? Here you go:
EU: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain and Sweden.
EEA: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
People who can swap their driver’s licence in the Netherlands
Not a holder of an EU/EEA country driving licence? No problem, it’s possible you’re still eligible to swap your licence to a Dutch one without having to take the theory and practical exam — but only if you fall into two main categories:
Under the 30% ruling
Do you have the 30% ruling for highly skilled migrants? Then congrats! Your visa and tax status grant you a huge benefit: the ability to switch your home country’s driving licence to a Dutch one.
Try to do this within 185 days of registering in the Netherlands. Just apply at your local municipality, they’ll take your foreign licence, and you’ll be issued a nice Dutch card instead. Makkelijk! (Easy!)
A Dutch driving licence is super handy to have. Image: DutchReview
After 185 days, your foreign driving licence is no longer valid, and you won’t legally be allowed to drive on Dutch roads until you formally make the switch.
Even better than this cosy 30% ruling benefit is that if you have a partner who came to the Netherlands with you, they get the same advantage. Leuk!
Eligible individuals will receive a new driving licence after the swap process.
Special inter-country driver’s licence agreements
In some ultra-special cases, the Netherlands has signed agreements with other countries or regions that agree that they think their citizens drive pretty well.
These places are Andorra, the Canadian province of Albert, the Canadian province of Quebec, Gibraltar, the United Kingdom, Guernsey, Israel, Japan, Jersey, Man, Monaco, Northern Ireland, Singapore, Taiwan, the former Netherlands Antilles (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius and Sint Maarten), and South Korea.
If you hold a foreign driving licence from one of the above places, you’ve won the jackpot and can exchange your home licence for a Dutch driving licence. Woo-hoo!
If eligible, you can submit your documents to the municipality to exchange your licence. Image: Freepik
How to exchange your licence
If you’re one of the lucky ones above who can exchange their driver’s licence, what you need to do is pretty easy.
Head to your local municipality (where you’re registered) with the following documents:
A colour passport photo
Your valid foreign driving licence
Your 30% ruling notification from the Belastingdienst (if applicable)
Your passport
Your Dutch residence permit and (if applicable) 30% ruling statement
A completed Health Declaration from the CBR (you’ll need to do this in advance)
Request to exchange your foreign driver’s licence and fill in the appropriate form
Your municipality will send the documents to the Dutch licence authority, the RDW
If approved, you’ll receive a letter within 10 days advising when to collect your licence from the municipality
Some municipalities also allow you to start the exchange process for your driving license online. Check with your municipality to see if this option is available in your area.
Let op! Your home country’s driver’s licence will be returned to the country that issued it — so kiss it goodbye (unless you want to take the Dutch tests!) 😘
People who need to pass the Dutch driver’s licence tests
Uh-oh — if you’ve read this far, that means you’re not in one of the exemption categories above.
Perhaps you’re from Australia, South Africa, India, New Zealand, or one of the other many countries that didn’t make the list?
Here’s where we’re the bearer of bad news. If you:
do not have a licence from an EU/EEA country,
don’t have the 30% ruling,
and don’t have a licence from a specially-exempted country above,
you cannot exchange your driver’s license in the Netherlands. Instead, you’ll need to pass your theory and practical driver test and will likely need to take lessons to do so.
The good news? Getting your Dutch driver’s licence is very achievable! In fact, this Australian writer did just that.
The other good news? (Yes, there’s more!). You can likely drive on your home licence for 185 days after registering in the Netherlands.
Take our advice: these 185 days are a great time to practise on Dutch roads and start the process of getting your Dutch driver’s licence.
Driving in the Netherlands as a tourist
Not registered in the Netherlands because you’re only in the country to gaze at canal houses, wander through tulip fields, or chow down on cheese?
If you’re not living in the Netherlands, you can drive on your foreign licence. If your licence isn’t issued by an EU/EFTA country, then your licence needs to have categories on it: A, B, C, D, E.
If it doesn’t have these categories, it’s highly recommended to get an international driving permit from your home country to use with your licence before you visit the Dutch.
🪪 How to get your Dutch driver’s licence
Alright — you’ve drawn the short straw and can’t switch your home country’s driver’s licence. Or, perhaps you’ve never had a driver’s licence.
Either way, to drive on Dutch roads, you need to get a Dutch driver’s licence. While the process is a little time-consuming and can be expensive, there are some tips and tricks to make it faster and easier.
Here’s how to get your Dutch driver’s licence in six easy steps.
1. Find a driving school
Hear us out: even if you’ve been driving for years, you almost definitely need Dutch driving lessons.
It’s one of the cold, hard truths of the Netherlands. The country is known as being one of the hardest countries in the world to get a driver’s licence.
In fact, the average Dutchie has to take 43 hours of professional driving lessons before getting their licence.
Luckily, you’re not an average Dutchie. 🍀
If you’ve been driving for years, you shouldn’t need 43 hours, but you will need more time than you might expect. Driving in the Netherlands is just different: there are priority and non-priority roads, turbo-roundabouts, and millions of bikes.
This is a simple roundabout in the Netherlands. The road markings, signs, and bike paths just make things different! Image: Depositphotos
The extensive Dutch road infrastructure takes a lot of getting used to, and it takes some time to develop awareness of the other road users. You’ll need to flex those neck muscles!
Plus, in the Netherlands, only licenced driving instructors can give unlicensed drivers lessons — there’s no Learner’s Permit. That means you need to sign up with a driving school.
But not all driver’s schools are created equal. Many internationals have reported being squeezed for far too many unneeded lessons, unscrupulous instructors, or instructors who have difficulties with English.
A good Dutch driving school will estimate how many lessons you need and take you to practice in a variety of settings. Image: Freepik
Take your time to select a good driving school with great reviews and a high exam pass rate. Even if the price is a little bit higher, it’s often worth it. As the Dutch say, “Cheap is expensive” (Goedkoop is duurkoop).
Once you’ve chosen your school, they’ll take on the task of booking your exams and will do everything they can to prepare you for Dutch roads.
Driving schools will also help you prepare for the practical and theoretical tests required to obtain your Dutch driver’s licence.
Want to get your Dutch driver’s licence fast? With Arrive and Drive, you can get your licence ultra-fast, even with the long waiting lists for practical exams! LesDirect’s English-speaking instructors watch constantly for new appointment openings so they can help expats get on the road fast. See the course.
2. Prepare for and pass the Dutch driver’s licence theory exam
Passing the driving theory test is a prerequisite for scheduling your practical test — so there’s no skipping this step or leaving it for later.
But here’s a fun fact: over 50% of test-takers fail their theory exam on the first attempt.
Alright, maybe it’s not so fun. The Dutch driver’s licence theory exam is heralded as one of the hardest in the world and is made up of three parts:
‼️ Let op: The theory exam will change format from April 7, 2025. See the changes.
Part one: Hazard perception
In the first part, you’ll be shown an image from the perspective of the driver in a car. You’ll have to look through the “windshield” at the situation, your speedometer, and your rearview mirror before making a decision to brake, reduce your speed, or do nothing.
The catch? You only get eight seconds per question and have to do 25 scenarios in a row. It’s intense, and it will often feel like multiple answers are correct.
Luckily, you are allowed to get 12 of the 25 questions wrong. However, this is a tricky part of the exam and requires a lot of online practice.
Part two: Traffic knowledge
Whew, made it through the stress of hazard perception? Now, you’re onto the next set of questions: traffic knowledge.
In this section, you’ll be asked 12 questions about speed limits, traffic signs, types of roads, the positioning of your car, and more. But beware! You can only get two questions wrong, and they can be tricky.
You’ll need to practice hard for the theory exam. Online platforms simulate the test environment. Image: DutchReview
Part three: Traffic insight
Finally, the third part of the Dutch driving licence theory exam consists of applying the rules and understanding how to act. There are a massive 28 questions here, and you’ll need to answer 25 correctly.
TIP: Worried? The good news is that you can take the Dutch driver’s licence theory exam in English or with a translator if needed.
3. Submit your Health Declaration
This is an easy step on the path to getting your Dutch driver’s licence: you’ll fill in a simple questionnaire online about your health history. Expect questions about your eyesight, general health, and even psychology.
The health declaration is necessary and mandatory for all types of motor vehicles.
Once complete, the CBR will let you know if they need further information. Sometimes, you might be sent for a check-up with your huisarts or a specialist.
4. Take driving lessons
Alright, this is where it gets fun! Jump behind the wheel of a car with your instructor, and they’ll coach you on driving the Dutch way.
A lot of this involves “Het Nieuwe Rijden,” introduced in 2013, which is a more economical and environmental way of driving modern cars. It involves rolling up to stoplights, turning off your engine in certain traffic situations, and changing how you use your gears.
Your driving instructor will teach you the Dutch style of driving that you need to pass the exam. Image: Freepik
Most of all, your instructor will prepare you for both the Dutch driving exam and generally driving on Dutch roads safely. There’s more than you expect to get used to, so enjoy!
While the average Dutchie takes 43 hours of lessons, as an “experienced driver”, you’ll likely need a lot less. Expect to take at least 10 hours of driving instruction (normally completed in three to four lessons), while some internationals might need 20 hours or more.
These lessons will prepare you for the practical exam so you can get your new driving licence.
5. Pass your practical exam
Feeling confident? Strut your stuff for a CBR driving examiner. In your 30- to 40-minute practical driving test, you’ll need to:
Prove you can drive confidently on Dutch roads
Demonstrate awareness around traffic situations, particularly bikes and pedestrians
Merge onto and exit off a highway
Perform at least two special manoeuvres (like a three-point turn or reversing around a corner)
Use a navigation program (for example, Google Maps) to direct you somewhere (this can be used in your preferred language)
The Dutch driving exam doesn’t require a perfect score. Image: Freepik
It’s important to know that you don’t have to drive perfectly, and small mistakes are okay. Did you:
Touch the curb with your wheel while parking? All good!
Drive five kilometres an hour over the speed limit? It happens!
Tear through a red light because you stopped by an Amsterdam coffeeshop before your test? Um, we’ll draw a line there; that’s a fail.
The most important thing is to make your driving examiner feel comfortable letting you drive on Dutch roads. So, keep a balance between traffic flow and safety.
Tips to pass your Dutch driving exam
Try to drive the maximum speed as much as possible (where it’s safe)
Use the right speed when approaching all different priority junctions and traffic situations
Change gear at the correct time and fully release the clutch before entering a bend
Avoid using the clutch and brake pedals unnecessarily
Maintain a balance of traffic flow and safety
TIP: Need some moral support? Your driving instructor is allowed to ride along for your test — if you wish. 😉
6. Apply for your driver’s licence
Gefeliciteerd, you passed! Your examiner gave you the go-ahead, your driving instructor gave you a huge high-five, and now you’re ready to hit the road — almost.
Before you can legally drive, you have to apply for your new driving licence, a process that takes about a week. Luckily, it’s pretty painless. You’ll need to:
Get some fresh-lookin’ passport photos taken
Take them to your local municipality (at least two hours after your exam) to request your licence who will send the information to the RDW, the Dutch licence authority
Wait about a week for your fresh Dutch driver’s licence to arrive (or pay a priority processing fee to pick up your licence within one to two days).
That’s it! You can hit the road with your wallet one card heavier and weighed down with your huge ego after passing the Dutch driver’s licence exams. You go, schat!
TIP: You can only collect your official Dutch driver’s license after you’ve been registered in the Netherlands for at least 185 days. Before that time, most internationals can drive using their foreign driver’s license for their first six months!
💰 Costs to get a Dutch driver’s licence in 2026
We’re not going to sugar-coat it — getting a Dutch driving licence can be expensive.
If you’re lucky enough to be able to swap your home country’s driver’s licence for a Dutch one, your costs will be pretty minimal — approximately €170.
If you are unable to swap your old licence for a Dutch licence, the costs begin to stack up. Expect to pay between €750 and €1500 for the exams, lessons, health declaration, and licence fees. Here’s the breakdown:
Item
Approximate cost
English theory exam
€55
Theory exam preparation materials
€40 to €125
Health declaration
€45.25
Driving lessons with an instructor
€650+ (Based on 10 hours of lessons at an average price of €65 to €70)
Practical exam
€138.50 + additional driving school fees of approximately €138.50
Driver’s licence fees
€52.10 + cost of passport photos
⏰ How long does it take to get a Dutch driver’s licence?
If you’re lucky enough to be able to switch your home country’s driver’s licence for a Dutch licence, you’ll receive the licence within a week or two.
If you can’t switch your home licence, it is possible to qualify for a Dutch driver’s licence in as little as one week after passing your theory exam. However, only if you’re very committed, have a good driving school, and have luck scheduling exams.
In general, most internationals who have previously held driver’s licences in other countries can get their licence within two months, including studying for the theory exam.
If you need to go through the whole process but have previously held a licence, most people typically allow:
Of course, you can stretch that over as long a period as you like. After passing your theory exam, the result is valid for 18 months.
🔄 Maintaining your Dutch driving licence
To keep your Dutch driving licence valid, remember these key points:
Renewal: Renew your licence every 10 years at your local municipality to avoid legal issues.
Health Declaration: Complete a Health Declaration form from the CBR during renewal to confirm you meet medical driving standards.
Update information: Report any changes in personal details, like address or name, to your municipality.
If your licence is lost or stolen: Report immediately to authorities and apply for a replacement, possibly needing a police report.
By following these steps, your Dutch driving licence will remain valid, allowing you to drive legally in the Netherlands and abroad.
🚗 Dutch driving organisations
In the Netherlands, there are two main organisations responsible for issuing driving licences and conducting driving tests: the RDW (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer) and the CBR (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheid).
Ready to hit the road? Getting your driver’s licence in the Netherlands can be a pain, but it’s not impossible — and it’s well worth it when you’re cruising down the A2 with Snelle beats blasting.
Have you gotten your Dutch driver’s licence? Tell us your experiences in the comments below!
⁉️ Getting a Dutch driver’s licence: Frequently asked questions
How long are Dutch driver’s licences valid?
A Dutch driver’s licence is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. After this, it must be renewed at your local municipality.
Can I drive in the Netherlands on an international licence?
You can drive in the Netherlands on a non-EU/EEA international licence, but only temporarily. If your licence is recognised in the Netherlands, you have 185 days after your arrival to use it on Dutch roads.
Can foreigners get a driving licence in the Netherlands?
Yes, internationals in the Netherlands can get a Dutch driver’s licence. If they’re eligible, they may be able to swap their home country’s licence for a Dutch licence. However, ineligible internationals will have to take the Dutch theory and practical exams.
How much does it cost to get a Dutch driver’s licence?
A Dutch driver’s licence can cost anywhere from €170 if you are eligible to switch your home country licence, up to €1,500 or more if you need to take the Dutch driver’s licence exams.
How long does it take to get a driving licence in the Netherlands?
If you need to take the theory and practical Dutch driver’s licence exams, expect at least a few weeks to a few months. Special expat-oriented driving schools offer one-week programs. If you are eligible to switch your driver’s licence immediately, you can get a Dutch driver’s licence in less than a week.
How hard is the Dutch driving test?
Both the theory and the practical Dutch driving tests are considered some of the hardest in the world. However, with good preparation, training, and professional instructors, it’s very achievable to pass the exams.
A 22-year-old suspect has now been arrested for the brutal murder of 17-year-old Lisa from Abcoude.
According to police, the suspect was originally arrested last night (August 21) for his suspected involvement in a separate incident at Weesperzijde.
What happened?
The arrested suspect is a 22-year-old man who was staying at a site run by the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) in Amsterdam, reports the NOS.
Police have confirmed that there are no indications that Lisa was sexually assaulted in this case.
A nation grappling with violence against women
Lisa’s death has intensified ongoing conversations about femicide and violence against women in the Netherlands.
The 17-year-old was violently killed while cycling home from Amsterdam, a case that has deeply shaken Dutch society.
Her murder has contributed to widespread public discourse about women’s safety and has led to heightened sensitivity around how violence against women is portrayed in media and advertising, as seen in recent backlash against Walibi Holland’s controversial advertisement.
Got anything to report?
You can call 0800-6070, use the online tip form, or remain anonymous via 0800-7000. Confidential tips can also be shared with the National Intelligence Team at 088-6617734.
If you work from home, you know that your office chair can make or break your day.
Spend eight hours on the wrong one, and you’ll be rubbing your back, shifting in discomfort, or wondering whether you should just lie down on the couch with your laptop (don’t do it — your spine will never forgive you).
That’s why the arrival of the Flexispot C7 Morpher got me excited. This isn’t just another chair — it’s a fully adjustable, feature-packed, and surprisingly stylish option that promises to take sitting to a whole new level.
But does it actually deliver? I put it through its paces — legs up, legs down, and cross-legged in between.
Sale alert! You can currently get a whopping €370 off the Flexispot C7 Morpher using code AUC7M3 with Flexispot’s 9th anniverary sale!
Delivery day: brace yourself for the boxes
Let’s start at the very beginning. When the C7 Morpher arrives at your doorstep, you’ll want to limber up. It comes in two gigantic, heavy boxes. We’re talking “might need a trolley” level. If you live in a flat with stairs, consider it your cardio workout for the day.
Now, there are two ways you can approach this situation. Option one: leave the boxes unopened and watch them take up half your living room. Option two: build the chair immediately so you can actually walk through your flat again. (I took option one for three days before cracking).
The good news is that assembly is a lot less painful than you might fear. Everything you need comes in the box — tools, screws, and a clear, easy-to-follow instruction booklet.
With a friend to help, it took the two of us less than 30 minutes to put the whole thing together. One minor complaint I had was that there were two sizes of screws, but they weren’t labelled. That being said, I had a 50/50 chance of getting it right the first time, so no biggie.
It took just under 30 minutes to put it together. Image: Samantha Dixon
Fair warning, though: there will be a mountain of cardboard and plastic wrap to recycle afterwards. So maybe don’t build this until right before your trash collection day unless you want to start your own cardboard castle.
Adjustability heaven
Once you’ve cleared the boxes and sat down, you’ll immediately notice the C7 Morpher’s biggest selling point: everything is adjustable. And we do mean everything.
The armrests can move up, down, left, right, forwards, and backwards. If you’ve ever had a chair where the armrests are always just slightly too high or low, you’ll know how magical this feels.
No more shrugging shoulders or leaning awkwardly — just set them exactly where you want and get on with your work (or Netflix session, let’s be honest).
The backrest comes with excellent lumbar support and can tilt to your preference. Combine that with the adjustable headrest, and you can really dial in your perfect sitting position.
It’s not just about comfort either — all this customisation means you’re looking after your posture, which your future self will thank you for.
And then there’s the footrest. Honestly, this deserves its own standing ovation. With one simple flip, you can transform the chair into whatever you need at the moment:
Flip it down, and you’ve got a classic office chair setup for typing away at emails.
Flip it up, and suddenly you can sit cross-legged, tuck your legs in like you’re on the floor, or even stretch out like you’re in a recliner.
Forget sitting awkwardly, these footrests are a godsend. Image: Samantha Dixon
It’s the kind of small design feature that makes a massive difference — especially if, like me, you get restless after sitting in the same position too long.
Comfort for the long haul
So, how does the chair feel after hours of use? Pretty great, actually.
The mesh material is breathable, which means you won’t end up sticking to the chair after a warm afternoon Zoom meeting. The material feels sturdy and supportive, though my partner pointed out that it felt a little scratchy against bare legs when sitting in shorts.
Personally, I didn’t notice this, but it’s worth knowing if you’re a summer shorts-at-home kind of person.
The back support deserves a shoutout too. It’s firm without being rigid, and it genuinely helps keep your posture in check. No more slumping forward by 4 PM. Combine that with the smooth tilt mechanism, and it’s easy to shift between focused working mode and lean-back brainstorming mode.
I never thought I would care about my office chair wheel quality, but now I do. Image: Samantha Dixon
Let’s not forget the wheels. They glide across the floor with almost suspicious ease. Honestly, they roll so smoothly it feels like butter.
If you’re someone who likes to scoot between your desk and bookshelf without standing up, you’ll love this. Just be careful not to start racing around your home office — your downstairs neighbours might not appreciate it.
Style points
When it comes to looks, the C7 Morpher doesn’t disappoint. It’s sleek, black, and modern without being overly flashy. It strikes that nice balance between “professional enough for work” and “stylish enough that you don’t hate seeing it in your living room.”
You can get it with or without the footrest, but honestly, we’d say go for the footrest version. It blends seamlessly into the design, and once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
The downsides
No chair is perfect, and the C7 Morpher has a couple of small cons to keep in mind:
The boxes are enormous and heavy. You’ll need space to build it, and taking out the recycling afterwards is a bit of a mission.
The mesh material can feel scratchy. Not for everyone, but if you’re often in shorts, you might notice it.
It’s not exactly a budget buy. Flexispot chairs tend to sit at the higher end of the home-office market. That said, considering how much adjustability you get, it still feels like decent value.
The verdict
The Flexispot C7 Morpher is an adjustable, adaptable, and surprisingly versatile piece of furniture that can genuinely make working from home more comfortable.
The standout feature is definitely the footrest, which lets you sit however you want without sacrificing support. Combine that with the fully customisable armrests, great back support, smooth wheels, and breathable mesh, and you’ve got yourself a chair that feels like it was designed just for you.
Yes, you’ll need to wrestle two gigantic boxes into your flat and deal with a recycling avalanche. And yes, the mesh material might not be everyone’s favourite. But once it’s built and in place, those small annoyances fade into the background.
If you’re looking for a stylish, durable, and wildly adjustable chair that can handle long workdays and lazy Netflix nights alike, the C7 Morpher is an excellent pick. And trust us — get the footrest version.
Have you taken the plunge? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Walibi Holland, a Dutch theme park, is facing criticism over a Halloween promotional video that many say makes light of violence against women.
The video’s release struck a nerve in the Netherlands, where conversations about violence against women have intensified.
Activists highlighted that a woman is killed by an intimate partner every eight days, warning that turning such violence into entertainment can desensitise audiences.
Not just a case of bad timing
The amusement park released a clip for its annual “Fright Nights” event depicting a terrified woman in a coffin being auctioned off to male bidders.
As she tries to escape, the floor collapses beneath her, sending her screaming into a giant shredder. We then see the audience cheer as blood splatters the walls.
AD reports that the ad sparked outrage from protest movement the Dolle Mina’s, actress and writer Nienke ’s Gravemade, and hundreds of others online.
Who are the Dolle Mina’s?
Founded in the winter of 1969, Dolle Mina is a Dutch feminist movement that advocates for equal rights, legalising abortions, and the abolishment of traditional gender roles.
In particular, critics accused the park of using feminicide as entertainment.
Walibi Holland has announced that it will temporarily remove its Halloween Fright Nights commercial following the backlash.
However, many point out that this is not a real solution at all, given that the commercial will be back online this Sunday (August 24).
This out-of-touch response wasn’t lost on critics, who flocked to the comments under Walibi’s Instagram statement.
“If you post this, you really haven’t understood,” writes one commenter, highlighting how Walibi fails to grasp the weight of the ad’s criticism.
Another points out the non-apologetic nature of Walibi’s apology: “Classic case of: I’m sorry BUT. And until Sunday?! Why.”
Seemingly unfazed, the park explained that the ad, which showed a woman being auctioned and shredded, was inspired by pop culture references and meant purely as fiction.
Walibi stressed it condemns all violence, values inclusivity, and regrets any unintended connection to recent real-life tragedies.
Do you think the outrage is justified, or is this just fictional horror being misunderstood? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Normally we would try and teach you some decent Dutch words. However, some Dutch words are just not meant to be translated, making it harder for non-Dutch speakers to get a sense of all this Dutch mambo jambo.
So, let’s take a look at 11 untranslatable Dutch words. We’ll hit you with a literal translation and try to find the best way to describe what it means in English.
Oh, and we’ll probably throw in a pun or two along the way. (Luckily, that’s not hard as they are littered with puns anyway). 🤷♀️
Afbellen
The word afbellen roughly translates to “calling it off.” It usually refers to when you cancel on a friend last minute, often because you would rather be in bed watching Netflix alone. 🛋
But it can also refer to the act of calling people to cancel.
Like when you have to call your grandma and six cousins to cancel that kaasstroopwafel (get-together) you had planned with your family. So you can say “Ik ben de hele familie aan het afbellen.” (I’m cancelling the whole family gathering).
Afblazen
Afblazen literally means to “blow off.” It is used when you cancel or call off something, typically an event or plan.
It literally translates to “blow off,” but in context, it’s used to indicate that something has been put off or is no longer going ahead.
Me afblazen after cancelling all my plans. Image: Depositphotos
It is very similar to afbellen might even be a better fit for blowing off your friends for that solo Netflix and chill.
Plaatsvervangende schaamte
Plaatsvervangende schaamte is that feeling of shame you experience caused by someone else’s (stupid) actions. Ah, yes, second-hand embarrassment. That’s got to be one of the top 5 worst feelings ever. 🤦♂️
It’s that feeling you get when you see your President making a fool of himself during a press conference (a completely hypothetical situation of course).
When digging through the possible meaning of these words, we found the term “vicarious shame” which is another interesting way of putting it.
Leedvermaak
“Leedvermaak” is the complete opposite! It describes the feeling of enjoying someone else’s misfortune. 😈
You have probably heard of the infamous German version of the phrase: “Schadenfreude”. This idea may apply to your feelings about a few political figures (not naming any, so don’t “@” us)!
Uitzieken
This word is literally translated as “out-sicking”, meaning when you are sick, you let the illness take its course as you get some rest until it is over.🌡
Make sure not to mix it up with “zieken“, which means teasing somebody. That can lead to an awkward conversation if you are calling in sick at work.
If you want to hear it from a real Dutchie, Elisette puts it way better than we could. 😉
Bouwvak
This word is derived from “bouw-vakantie”, which means build holiday. In the Netherlands, this refers to the traditional summer holiday period for the construction industry.
It typically lasts for about three weeks, usually in late July to mid-August. During this time, construction workers and many construction companies take a break, leading to a temporary halt in building activities across the country.
The first Saturday of the “bouwvak” is referred to as “Zwarte Zaterdag” (black Saturday). when the roads to France are all choked up with holiday-going Dutchies in their caravans.
You could take a joint to the beach when you’re going for “uitwaaien“, but it simply means going for a walk and getting some air (preferably at a windy beach).
Uitbuiken
There have got to be more words for “uitbuiken” in other languages. Help us out, folks! It literally translates to “belly-ing out” and means letting the food settle after a nice meal. It’s shorthand for nurturing a food baby. 🤰 🥪
The word uitbuiken is not to be confused with natafelen, which is more focused on the gezelligheid (cosiness) of sitting with friends or family at a table after a meal, drinking a bit, and having some fun conversations. 🍻
It literally combines the words na (after) and tafel (table) in verb-from, and means to linger at the table and chat after a meal.
Voorpret
Voorpret = pre-fun.
Voorpret is about enjoying an event or something before it happens. You typically experience it before weddings, parties, and holidays. What’s the proper English term? Pre-party fun, perhaps? “Looking forward to it”? 🥳
Voorpret is one of the best kinds of joys! Image: Freepik
Both don’t quite cover it, think about it as the fun and excitement you’re feeling when planning everything you will bring on a holiday with you.
Gezellig
Together with lekker, the two words are the most used examples of untranslatable words in Dutch. If you’ve ever had the misfortune to be trapped in a Dutch circle party, you will have heard this phrase used many times.
As you would know, after spending more than seven minutes at any Dutch gathering, the word gezellig can be used in so many ways.
“Echtgezellig”; lying about how “gezellig it was with my mother-in-law”; or a sarcastic “GEZELLIG HOOR” when your cousin is fighting with your racist aunt in a discussion about Zwarte Piet.
What does it mean? Well, it refers to a sort of warm, cosy atmosphere of togetherness and enjoyment.
Now that you’ve gotten the hang of those untranslatables, you can go ahead and add them to your growing list of Dutch vocab and use them almost exclusively for the next few days. 😉
Can you think of any more untranslatable words in Dutch (or in your native language)? Drop them in the comments!
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