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Why the Netherlands will never have an ‘Elfstedentocht’ (Eleven Cities Tour) again

Abuzer van Leeuwen 🇳🇱
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12
Why the Netherlands will never have an ‘Elfstedentocht’ (Eleven Cities Tour) again

Dutch people want an Elfstedentocht in Friesland more than winning a World Cup in football or unlimited free cheese.

However, the chances of an actual Elfstedentocht (Eleven Cities Tour) happening again are getting slimmer every passing year.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “The canals could always freeze over, so why can’t there be another Elfstedentocht?” — Well, we’ve got three great reasons for you.

What is the Elfstedentocht? 

First things first, what is this Elfstedentocht all the Dutch are talking about? Why do they act like it’s a precious ring that will give them power forever? 

Let me enlighten you.

The Elfstedentocht is an ice-skating tour that follows a circular route along frozen canals, rivers, and lakes.

It runs through eleven historical Frisian towns: Leeuwarden, Sneek, IJlst, Sloten, Stavoren, Hindeloopen, Workum, Bolsward, Harlingen, Franeker, and Dokkum.

READ MORE | What were Elfstedentochten really like? Vintage 50s video in full colour inside!

The almost 200-kilometre-long tour is held only if the ice is and remains at least 15 centimetres thick along the entire course. That’s because about 15,000 skaters would take the route (and a gazillion people would watch).

All participating skaters must be members of the Association of the Eleven Frisian Towns, so if you’re wondering if you can ever participate, then the answer is a flat-out no.

This used to be an annual event that stopped the nation, but it hasn’t been held since 1997. Here’s some footage from the last one, the only one I ever experienced in my life (safely and warmly from behind the TV):

So, why will the Netherlands never have an Elfstedentocht again?

Sounds like a fun event, right? Well, unfortunately, the chances of it ever happening again are unlikely. Here’s why:

Global warming and temperature extremes

As you might have noticed, temperature extremes are all over the place lately, you can’t have missed it (unless you’re Donald Trump).

The thing is, all the extremes in the Netherlands have been hot temperature records — not cold ones. Unfortunately, this pretty much kills the last hope Dutch people had for another Elfstedentocht.

Graph displaying daily temperature records in the netherlands
Oof. Not much chance of the Elfstedentocht happening, it would seem. Image: datagraver/KNMI

As you can see, there are plenty of heat records lately — almost no cold records.

So, whatever the reason for global warming is, it doesn’t change the obvious trend that the Netherlands is warming up in general.

The Elfstedentocht media circus will be too big for an Eleven Cities Tour to happen

Just for a moment, look at those images from 1997 again. Quite a happening back then, and even then we thought that it was a complete media frenzy.

And holy sh*t, more than 1.5 million people were present in Friesland, including 2000 (international) reporters! And that was in 1997 when the internet was still this:

Can you imagine the record-breaking media circus that would come about with an Elfstedentocht in this day and age? It might even break some US inauguration records!

It’s just unrealistic to think that Friesland could handle three million people normally, let alone three million on ice.

The Dutch are way too ‘safety-first’ to allow such a mega-event as the Elfstedentocht to happen

So, mega crowds and thin ice. Some of you readers might just say “Let’s get it on” (or as they say in Frisian: “iet gat oan” or better yet and more realistically: “it giet nea mear oan“).

READ MORE | Natural ice skating in the Netherlands: where to go and what to bring

So, if you’re thinking that the Dutch will just jump for any excuse to have another Elfstedentocht, then you’re not thinking it through.

No mayor or minister will take a gamble with so many people on such thin ice.

Hell, we even have a saying in Dutch that goes: “niet over één nacht ijs gaan”, which would translate to “don’t go over one night’s ice” and means that you don’t want to take any stupid risks.

I would love to be wrong about never having an Elfstedentocht again, and will definitely be the first to stand in and booze it up.

But, sure, the temperatures might plummet to below zero for three weeks once in the future — but realistically speaking, the Elfstedentocht in Friesland will never happen again.

Did you know about this Dutch tradition? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Feature Image: Rob Bogaerts/Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain

An unfair advantage? This is how some Dutch feel about the 30% ruling

Kriti Swarup
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0
An unfair advantage? This is how some Dutch feel about the 30% ruling

The housing market in the Netherlands is in turmoil, and some locals are pointing fingers toward expats and their 30% tax break. But are they really to blame? 

The Eindhoven Dagblad invited readers to share their views on how the 30% ruling affects housing. Their thoughts? Most respondents want the ruling abolished, saying it pushes the housing market further out of reach for first-time buyers.

Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the centre of Eindhoven costs no less than €1,200, and the price per square metre for buying a house now exceeds €4,700. 

It’s no wonder the people want someone to blame — but is it rightly placed? Let’s get into it. 

What is the 30% ruling? 

Firstly, let’s explain what is at the centre of this argument. The 30% ruling was meant to attract highly educated foreign workers to the Netherlands by allowing them to receive part of their salary tax-free. 

Although it depends on their salary, expats earn an average of around €1,000 more per month when compared to their Dutch colleagues in similar roles. 

From January 1, 2027, the tax-free portion of expats’ salaries will be reduced from 30% to 27%. After five years, expats will pay the same tax rates as everyone else.  

However, with roughly 20,000 applications for knowledge migrants submitted to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service in 2025, the tax break remains a hot topic among Dutch people. 

“Why are expats favoured over locals?” 

This is a question on the lips of these ED readers. 

One reader, Peter de Groot, writes that differentiating between domestic and foreign employees in their benefits is “unconstitutional.”

Meanwhile, another reader, Dick de Groot, wishes to abolish tax benefits for expats altogether. 

Elis Poelman thinks it’s “ridiculous” that expats are favoured over residents born and raised in Eindhoven. 

READ MORE | The 30% ruling in the Netherlands: The easy guide in 2026

Meanwhile, Alex Goudriaan thinks Indians would keep coming to Eindhoven regardless of the tax break… 

Some readers suggest a practical fix instead: let companies house their own workers. 

Amita Banerjee proposes staff housing to ease pressure on the local market, while Marijn de Jong sums it up simply: build a few large residential towers next to ASML.

Another commenter on Eindhoven Dagblad’s article turns the tables: “There’s only one real cause of high house prices: scarcity. And because higher prices mean higher profits and taxes, that scarcity is deliberately sustained.”

Does an extra €1,000 per month really help you buy a house? 

Unfortunately for the readers of the Eindhoven Dagblad: No. 

According to Dennis van Lieshout, a mortgage advisor, it’s a myth that the 30% ruling makes it easier for expats to buy a house. 

“About two-thirds of all mortgages fall under the National Mortgage Guarantee, and in those cases, we shouldn’t even include the scheme in our calculations,” van Lieshout tells ED. 

When it comes to renting, however, an extra €1,000 indeed helps you pay more rent, making you better able to take on the increasing rent prices. 

From the mortgage advisor’s perspective, if the tax break is discontinued completely, expats might be less likely to choose the Netherlands, which risks the country’s “competitive position.”

The Netherlands plays a major role in semiconductors, robotics, software development, and the energy transition. These sectors contribute a lot to the country’s GDP, which then helps fund benefits that make life in the Netherlands easier for Dutch citizens.

Next time mortgages feel impossible, and the thought of your grandfather buying a house at age 11 keeps you up at night, perhaps blame the economy — not the expat.

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A guide to night buses and night trains in the Netherlands

Emma Brown
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1
A guide to night buses and night trains in the Netherlands

Had one too many drinks and missed the last train? Bracing yourself for a taxi journey that will eat up your monthly pay? No need! You can still travel around on night service transport in the Netherlands.

Night buses and trains are offered in Amsterdam and throughout the Netherlands — so don’t worry, you won’t be stranded anywhere!

Here is all you need to know about late-night (or early-morning) travel in the Netherlands.👇

When and where do night trains in the Netherlands run?

Night trains in the Netherlands run after the last ‘regular’ train leaves, usually around 1 AM. ⏰

They don’t run as regularly as normal trains, but about every hour or so, you can board a night train and be safely transported to your destination until the early morning hours.

LocationTransport available
Randstad regionEvery single night, hourly
Rotterdam via Den Haag Holland Spoor, Leiden Centraal, Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam Centraal to Utrecht CentraalEvery single night, hourly
Between Utrecht and Nijmegen/Arnhem‘Only’ one night train on Friday and Saturday nights, around 1 AM
From Utrecht to AmersfoortEvery Friday and Saturday and then you can take a connection from Utrecht to other major cities
From Randstad to the provinces of Drenthe and GroningenThere is a late train every Friday and Saturday night

Other late trains include Amsterdam to Alkmaar, Utrecht to Eindhoven, Rotterdam to Eindhoven, Amsterdam to Haarlem, Utrecht to Rotterdam, Amsterdam to Amersfoort to Deventer, Schiphol to Zwolle, and Rotterdam to Zwolle via Utrecht and Amersfoort.

Night trains in Amsterdam

As this is the capital city, it’s important to ensure residents and visitors are not led astray. So, if you want to go to a major city or travel back to Amsterdam, you’re in luck.

A train runs hourly into the early hours of the morning, so you can always find your way back, no matter how long you are boogying into the night. 🕺

It’s important to note that these trains do take a little longer to reach your destination than normal, and high-speed trains don’t run at this time. Always check online before deciding to stay out.

Tip: I’ve done the early morning slog to Rotterdam Centraal many times and made it! It’s also the same price, and if you have a handy day card, it’s valid until 4 AM.

Are there sleeper trains?

There’s always enough room for a snooze, but most aren’t sleeper trains — just regular old trains.

READ MORE | We slept our way from Amsterdam to Berlin on the new European Sleeper train

You can, however, hop on the Brussels-Amsterdam-Berlin line, which now also chugs on to Dresden in Germany and Prague in the Czech Republic.

Be warned, though: this is an international service, not NS!

This means you’ll be able to sleep during your journey and wake up in a completely different (more mountainous) country! ⛰️

Night buses in Amsterdam

Just after midnight (around 12:30 AM), the metros, trams, and regular buses stop running.

Need to get home? Don’t panic! 😱 From then until 7:30 AM, you can catch a night bus.

READ MORE | What your favourite Dutch mode of transport says about you

This means transport is available 24 hours a day! Normal conditions usually resume from around 6 AM on a weekday. These night buses operate 11 routes to Amsterdam Centraal Station via Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein.

How much do night buses cost?

Pricing is different than usual. A single ticket costs €5.70, is valid for 90 minutes, including any transfers, and can be purchased through the GVB app.

Many other options exist online or at your local GVB ticket office. For a hassle-free experience, you can use your bank card or mobile phone. 🙌

Have you ever taken night buses or night trains in the Netherlands before? Let us know your experiences in the comments!

Dutch wages have risen: here’s who is getting what

DutchReview Crew
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0
Dutch wages have risen: here’s who is getting what

In line with the government’s 2026 Tax Plan and adjustments to the minimum wage, workers in the Netherlands are seeing a net wage increase of up to around 3.7%. 

And what does this mean? Well, according to Nibud (National Institute for Family Finance Information), purchasing power has increased by an average of 0.9%. 

However, just how much of an increase you’ll see in your paycheck depends on what it is you do. So, here’s the rundown of the latest changes.

Your sector determines your raise

According to AD, salary increases depend on the sector you work in. 

Each sector has a separately negotiated CAO (Collective Labour Agreement), which means wage increases will affect employees differently. 

For example, provided they earn a standard modal income, workers in a sector such as healthcare, where the CAO requires a larger salary contribution to social funds, will see a smaller wage increase (between €17 and €18 per month). 

Meanwhile, the average worker in the business services sector could see up to €26 more per month. Work in construction? You can receive up to €39 extra per month. 

This variability is also true for sectors where greater amounts of a worker’s salary are attributed to their pension fund. 

Whatever wage increase they receive will be less visible in their net wages, but they will save more for the future.

These differences in the size of each worker’s salary increase become less visible as their average salary increases. 

Someone earning twice the modal income, for instance, will likely see an increase of between €32 and €37, regardless of the sector they work in. 

Who is the luckiest? 

Well, “lucky” might be the wrong word, but minimum-wage workers are likely to see the biggest increase in their purchasing power, ranging from €46 to €65 extra each month for those with a 36-hour workweek, reports AD.

This is thanks to a combo of increased minimum wage (from €14.40 to €14.71) and a further increase in the earned income tax credit for these workers. 

Of course, just how much of an increase minimum wage workers will see still varies by sector. 

And while net wages increase, there are those who argue that in the face of inflation and higher prices in gas, groceries, and housing, these additions are basically negligible. 

@dutchreview €7.99 for a sliver of salmon #dutchreview #fyp #supermarket ♬ original sound – Trina Wawrzynowicz

Who is the unluckiest?

Sorry, guys, but if you’re self-employed, you got the short end of the stick (again).

Tax deductions for these workers have been even further reduced in 2026, following significant cuts in 2025. This means you can expect to cough up more cash once it’s time to file your income tax. 

Let’s hope next year brings more bang for your buck. 

Have you been impacted by these latest developments? Let us know in the comments. 

Dutch Quirk #131: Ride a bike wearing a suit or dress

Katrien Nivera 🇵🇭
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0
Dutch Quirk #131: Ride a bike wearing a suit or dress

Everyone knows how much Dutchies love to cycle — in the rain, in the snow, even in their best evening formal wear.

Travelling around in a tight suit or dress is already a big hassle, but being cycling royals, Dutchies aren’t afraid to get on a bike in their Sunday best.

What is it?

Instead of shying away from physical activity in their fanciest clothes, Dutchies would rather get on a bike than be late to the office or a party.

READ MORE | 17 reasons why biking is king in the Netherlands

The result? You’ll see them zooming by on their fiets wearing anything from a ball gown to a tuxedo. (Bonus points for girls who do it in heels. 👠)

mark-rutte-biking-in-the-hague
Former Prime Minister Mark Rutte is a pro! Image: Depositphotos

Cycling in dress shoes is a master class in balance, flexibility, and grace. And it’s one the Dutch have aced.

Why do they do it?

Even in their most formal clothing, cycling to their destination is STILL more convenient than other types of transport.

READ MORE | 7 types of cyclists found when biking in the Netherlands

If you’re planning to drink or stay late, that already rules out driving and taking public transport.

So, what better way to ensure a glamorous night out than not worrying about having a designated driver or running to catch a train?

Why is it quirky?

Most people go above and beyond to ensure their formal outfit doesn’t wrinkle and to avoid wearing uncomfortable dress shoes for too long. Not the Dutch.

You’ll still see them dashing across a bike path, wearing 10-centimetre high heels and a cocktail dress or restricting trousers and a snazzy blazer. 💃

@annakordelia We were really late for the preparty drinks tho #amsterdam #amsterdammer #bikinginamsterdam #bikingadventures #holland #netherlands #амстердам #голландія #нідерланди #українцівнідерландах #beautifuldestinations #amsterdamlife #nederlands ♬ Suavemente – Elvis Crespo

Should you join in?

Only if you feel comfortable biking in less comfortable clothes!

We understand if you don’t want to cycle in a floor-length gown or a tight tuxedo, though, in case you cause a traffic accident on the way to the function.

Have you experienced this Dutch quirk? Tell us in the comments below!

So, you moved to the Netherlands for love! (Welcome, but…)

Rebecca Hogg
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5
So, you moved to the Netherlands for love! (Welcome, but…)

You’ve just moved to the Netherlands for love and are ready to live out your Dutch fairytale. But what do you need to know when embarking upon your new life here?

It’s happened. You’ve fallen in love with a Dutchie, and in this blissful cloud of happiness and gezelligheid fueled by promises of bikes, canals, tulips, and windmills, you’ve taken the plunge and moved to Oranje.

Congratulations! Welcome to the Netherlands! Everything is great here — you’ll absolutely love it.

Wait, not so fast. Now, what’s this? You don’t speak the language properly, you can’t ride a bike, and you aren’t sure that you enjoy the concept of constantly eating fried foods.

But don’t despair, fellow international, I’ve been there. Here’s what I would tell myself if arriving in the Netherlands for love now.

Be proactive in making friends

Things get lonely when you move to a new country, and this happens faster than you think — not that anyone tells you that!

For the first few months, you’ll be drowning in the excitement of being abroad and living in this magical land, but if the only people you are interacting with on a daily basis are your partner and your dog, you may start to go stir-crazy.

READ MORE | 18 ways to actually make friends as an expat in the Netherlands

Plus, as much as the Dutch can be very welcoming, it can take a while to pierce their tight social circles, especially if you live in a small town like mine.

So, if you aren’t working or studying in the Netherlands yet, why not join a local sports team or take a Dutch (or some other) class that fills your free time with something that interests you?

Yoga-class-in-studio-in-the-Netherlands-joining-classes-to-make-friends
Joining a class, such as a yoga class, is a great way to start talking and meet new friends with similar interests! Image: Pexels

You’ll meet local people, get the giggles practising your (pitiful) Dutch, and hopefully find someone who will be happy to listen to you butcher their language. And in that case…

Get used to being social

If you are a miserable sod, you’ll want to avoid other people as soon as they cross your path. But you can’t really do that here in Nederland. People talk to each other… they like each other! Weird, right?!

READ MORE | 14 signs you have successfully been Dutchified

But have no fear. Soon you’ll be hallo-ing and hoi-ing with the best of them, socialising with your neighbours and navigating those Dutch circle parties like a native. It just may take a while.

Group-of-friends-talking-and-eating-pizza-in-a-circle-in-the-Netherlands-outside
Get used to sometimes being uncomfortable, practice your Dutch, and have Dutch hangouts in a circle! Image: Pexels

Bask in the small charms of Dutch life

Learn to cycle and take the bike everywhere; it’s so much more gezellig than walking. Travel to new cities and enjoy the fact that everything is so close together. Marvel at the windmills and endless bodies of water.

Get excited when you see that man walking his dog wearing clogs or the man shopping in the supermarket who was wearing them too. Yes, I have seen this. It really happens.

bikes-on-bridge-over-canal-in-leiden
Wander around in the Netherlands by yourself, you’ll have some gorgeous views! Image: Depositphotos

Don’t be offended when the Dutch say how they feel

As a Brit, I am used to tutting quietly and exhibiting passive-aggressive behaviour whenever another member of the human race pisses me off, but the Dutch are different. They will call you out about your mistake.

READ MORE | Dutch directness: 5 questions you’ll get in the Netherlands (and how to answer them)

It took me a while to get used to this, as I am quite sensitive and used to being overly polite in social situations due to years of indoctrination living in the UK.

Once you start to understand the Dutch language, however, you’ll realise that this is not personal. It’s just how they speak to one another. It is quite liberating, to be honest.

Two-female-friends-laughing-at-a-cafe-in-the-Netherlands-together-being-direct-with-each-other-using-a-mobile-phone
While you might first get offended by Dutch directness, roll with it, they’re just Dutch! Image: Freepik

Buy a fryer

This will become a staple item in your kitchen. All the Dutchies have one.

Soon you will be serving bitterballen at every social occasion, and eating fries, frikandellen, and kroketten with the best of them. Trust me, this is one purchase you won’t regret if you need to break into your fried food reserves in an emergency.

Moving to the Netherlands for love is a beautiful thing, but you shouldn’t forget to take care of yourself. Put yourself out there, bask in the quirky culture, and take it one step at a time.

Oh, and don’t forget that it’s okay to lean on your partner. After all, you made a big sacrifice when you moved here for them. 🧡

Do you have any tips for moving to the Netherlands for love? Tell us in the comments below!

Dutchman deported from US after divorce, despite living there for 15 years 

Kriti Swarup
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1
Dutchman deported from US after divorce, despite living there for 15 years 

No money, no papers, no job, no wife. This Dutch man’s US divorce quite literally uprooted his life. 

Despite 15 years of living and working in the US, one divorce was all it took for the country to send the Almelo local back to Twente, reports AD.  

A one-way ticket back to Twente

On Friday, the Dutch citizen living in California was deported by order of the US government. 

Less than 24 hours later, the man found himself in a homeless shelter in Almelo at 1 AM, where he was given a bed in a “special heated room.” 

The 40-year-old had set up his whole life in the US: He was married to an American woman and the director of a company, earning a good salary.  

All that changed after his divorce was finalised last week. He was told to leave the country immediately.

According to Gert Mensink, spokesperson for aid organisation Sociaal Plein in Almelo, the Almelo local had no money and no papers.  

“At the time of his deportation, his bank account was blocked. With only $75 in cash, he left for the Netherlands,” he tells AD. 

Is this legal? 

Unfortunately, yes. In fact, this is not an isolated case. 

Under US immigration rules, foreigners who hold a Green Card through marriage can lose their right to stay once that marriage ends. 

And in recent years, enforcement of this rule has become stricter. 

Earlier, a former resident of Amersfoort was also forced to leave the US after living there for 40 years.

“What’s happening in America always felt far away,” Mensink tells AD. “Until Friday. Now it’s suddenly close… Trump is closer than you think.”

How is the man doing now? 

Why the man couldn’t stay with friends or family remains unclear. Perhaps it’s because he had been living outside of the Netherlands for such a long period of time. 

According to AD, the man is not available for a comment, but those around him say the shock is slowly wearing off. 

The man is reported to now have his own room, after spending his first night among the homeless.

He’s also taking practical steps forward: opening a Dutch bank account and attending a job interview on Monday.

What seemed like an American immigration horror story is more real than we imagined. But, unfortunately, stories like this are becoming all too common under the rule of one orange man. 

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How to pass the Dutch driving theory exam: The updated 2026 guide

Jana Vondráčková 🇨🇿
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0
How to pass the Dutch driving theory exam: The updated 2026 guide

Getting your driving licence is an exciting milestone. However, to become a proud owner of a Dutch rijbewijs, you need to pass two exams: the theory exam and the practical driving test.

What many aspiring drivers don’t realise is just how challenging the theory exam can be. In 2025, only 40% passed the car theory test on the first try.

If you want to be part of that group, you’ve gotta prep smart. Let’s break down how exactly you can do that and what you should expect from the exam in 2026. 

Important changes to the driving theory exam in 2026

Before we dive into practical tips on how you can actually prepare for the theory test, it’s important to look at some changes that the CBR (the Dutch central office for driver testing) rolled out back in April 2025.

While the knowledge you need to pass is essentially the same, there are important changes to the format and the general approach to the exam. 👇

photo-of-man-sitting-at-desk-with-books-and-laptop-studying-for-Dutch-driving-theory-exam
There are a few changes to the Dutch driving theory exam in 2026. Image: Magnific

Fewer questions, same difficulty 

While the previous version of the exam consisted of 65 questions, the new version only has 50. The level of the exam doesn’t change. 

To pass, you have to answer at least 44 questions correctly within 30 minutes, the same amount of time as before. Candidates who require extra time still get 45 minutes.

Integrated format 

In the past, the exam was split into three separate parts: hazard recognition, knowledge of traffic rules, and traffic insight, where you had to apply your knowledge to different scenarios. 

This is no longer the case. Instead, you’ll get one whole exam that integrates the different parts.

Animated scenarios replace static images 

If you’re more of a video rather than a photo kinda person (who isn’t these days), you’ll be happy to hear that instead of looking at pictures, you’ll be looking at short animations that illustrate different driving scenarios. 

This will help to make the test more realistic and dynamic.

Same content, new approach

The new theory test has the same level as the previous one. This means you don’t need to study anything new, but you’ll need to practice with the new question format.

Want to ace your theory exam on the first try? With an impressive student pass rate of 86%, Theorie Snel Halen’s online and in-person prep courses have helped thousands of students smash their theory exam.

Learn more

What do I need to know to pass the Dutch driving theory exam?

We’ve already established that the new exam covers essentially the same fundamental themes as before. 

photo-of-woman-sitting-at-desk-studying-for-Dutch-driving-theory-exam
You must study the same fundamental themes. Image: Magnific

The only difference is that they’re no longer tested as separate sections. Instead, they’re woven throughout the integrated 50-question format. These are the areas you’ll need to master:

Dutch road rules (traffic signs, right of way, etc.)

This forms the foundation of your driving knowledge. You’ll need to understand traffic signs, road markings, speed limits, and priority rules. 

These questions typically focus on factual knowledge and legal requirements for Dutch roads.

Hazard perception

The traditional hazard perception section with still images has been removed from the exam. 

Instead, you’ll see hazard perception questions with short animated traffic scenarios that better represent how things actually are on the road.

Your task? Identify potential dangers and demonstrate that you know how to respond appropriately in various traffic situations.

Responsible driving & applying rules to real-life situations

A.k.a traffic insight. This is where the new format really shines. Many of the exam questions require logical interpretation rather than just blindly memorising rules. 

You’ll need to apply your theoretical knowledge to practical driving scenarios, showing that you can make safe and responsible decisions on the road.

photo-of-woman-behind-wheel-of-car-driving-in-the-Netherlands-after-passing-driving-theory-exam
In the end, you need to navigate real-life situations. Image: Magnific

While you obviously still need to memorise the important stuff, the new exam really puts your judgement and awareness to the test. 

This means you need to truly understand the reasoning behind traffic rules and think critically to apply this knowledge.

How can I pass the driving theory exam on the first try?

Success on the theory exam requires more than just reading through the materials once. Preparation is key, so here are proven strategies to maximise your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Book your theory exam ahead of time and give yourself enough time to learn

The easiest (and usually cheapest) way to book your theory exam is to just do it yourself via the CBR website. To do this, you’ll need your DigiD. Alternatively, you can have your driving school book the exam for you. 

Make sure you give yourself at least four to six weeks of consistent study time to properly absorb the material and practice with the new format.

Use videos and animations to help your learning

Since the new exam includes animated scenarios, incorporating visual learning into your preparation is more important than ever. 

Videos help you understand traffic situations from a driver’s perspective and prepare you for the dynamic nature of the animated questions.

Follow an online course

Structured online courses provide comprehensive coverage of all exam topics and often include practice tests that mirror the real exam format. 

photo-of-woman-sitting-in-front-of-laptop-at-home-taking-online-course-for-Dutch-driving-theory-exam
An online course can help you prepare for the exam. Image: Magnific

They’re particularly valuable for learning the reasoning behind traffic rules, not just memorising them.

TIP: Theorie Snel Halen can help you prepare with interactive materials designed to reflect the latest changes in the exam. Their engaging materials, like interactive videos and a handy eBook, are great tools to practice for the CBR theory exam. Learn more.

Make use of practice questions and practice exams

Practice questions are your best preparation tool for the actual exam.

They will not only give you a good idea of what exactly you can expect but also the opportunity to practice with a limited timer to build your speed and confidence.

Repetition is key

The more you practice, the more automatic your responses become. Review difficult questions multiple times, and make sure you understand why each answer is correct. 

Pay extra attention to areas where you consistently make mistakes.

Handy tips to help you on the day of the exam

When exam day arrives and stress levels are high, these practical tips can make the difference between passing and failing.

Read questions properly and don’t rush

With just about 34 seconds per question, it’s tempting to try to rush through the exam. But misreading a question is a costly mistake. Take a moment to fully understand what’s being asked before selecting your answer.

Time management is important, but so is accuracy. You’ll get your result as soon as you complete all 50 questions, so use the full time given to you if you need it.

Trust yourself

If you’ve prepared thoroughly, trust your knowledge and instincts. Second-guessing yourself often leads to changing correct answers to incorrect ones.

The new Dutch driving theory exam is all about a practical, real-world assessment of driving knowledge. 

With the right preparation and practice, you’ll be able to pass your exam on the first try and join many internationals who have successfully obtained their Dutch rijbewijs.

Have you already taken and passed the driving theory exam? Share your experience in the comments below!

Frequently asked questions: How to pass the Dutch driving theory exam

Is the Dutch theory exam available in English in 2026?

How many questions are on the CBR theory test?

What is the best way to practice for the theory exam?

How much will the theory exam cost?

Dutch minority cabinet unveils plans: freedom tax incoming, hard cuts for healthcare

Abuzer van Leeuwen 🇳🇱
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Dutch minority cabinet unveils plans: freedom tax incoming, hard cuts for healthcare

Three months after the Dutch elections, D66, VVD, and CDA leaders Rob Jetten, Dilan Yesilgöz, and Henri Bontenbal have finally presented their coalition agreement this afternoon.

The three parties reached an agreement this week on their coalition plans, which span approximately fifty pages covering everything from security and migration to housing, healthcare, social security, nitrogen, climate policy, and more.

The coalition agreement carries the motto “Aan de slag” (Get to work), and party members have already signed off on the plans their leaders hammered out behind closed doors. The three leaders describe it as “a beautiful, cohesive story.”

There’s just one tiny problem: they don’t have enough votes to actually implement any of it, but more on that little hiccup later.

Billions for defence and security (coming from your wallet)

National security takes centre stage, with the coalition citing “growing geopolitical uncertainty” and threats from Russian escalation, sabotage, and cyberattacks.

The plans pump billions into defence and intelligence, expanding the armed forces to 122,000 personnel and strengthening both security services: the AIVD (General Intelligence and Security Service) and MIVD (Defence Intelligence and Security Service).

Every Dutch resident will pay a new “freedom contribution” (vrijheidsbijdrage) through income tax, eventually generating over €3 billion annually. The total defence package? €19 billion in extra spending.

The coalition also wants more neighbourhood police, cyber investigators, and €100 million for prisons. Earlier calculations suggest far more is needed — currently, some prisoners get released early because cells are full.

Healthcare costs will rise for most

Big cuts are coming to healthcare and social security, though the coalition calls it “slowing growth.”

The mandatory health insurance deductible (eigen risico) jumps from €385 to €460, reports NOS. This helps younger, healthier people by keeping premiums lower, but people with higher incomes and healthcare needs will feel the squeeze.

Low earners get an increased healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) to offset the hike. The coalition also scraps household help (huishoudelijke hulp) for wealthier people who can pay privately.

The state pension age (AOW-leeftijd) keeps rising, and from 2027 it’ll increase with life expectancy. This alone saves nearly €3 billion yearly by 2033.

If you lose your job in the Netherlands, your safety net just got considerably shorter, reports RTL Nieuws. The coalition plans to limit unemployment benefits (WW-uitkering) to a maximum of one year.

There’s a small silver lining: you’ll receive a higher payment during the first two months than under the current system. After that, though, the support drops off — and the maximum benefit amount is being lowered overall.

But the 30% ruling is here to stay

Good news if you’re an international worker benefiting from the 30% ruling: the coalition isn’t touching it.

READ MORE | The 30% ruling in the Netherlands: The easy guide in 2026

The agreement explicitly states that the Netherlands’ economic strength depends partly on “leading large companies that choose growth and a sustainable future in the Netherlands” and “we versoberen de expatregeling niet.”

Translation: we’re not messing with the expat tax scheme (expatregeling). Which is also the only time the word expat gets mentioned in the whole scheme of things.

Housing, asylum, and climate

The coalition will keep the mortgage interest deduction (hypotheekrenteaftrek) unchanged, maintaining “housing market stability.” Since 2020, this tax benefit has been dropping 3% yearly, but that won’t be accelerated.

However, bad news for renters, as annual income checks will determine rent increases, plus wealth tests (vermogenstoets) for new social housing tenants. From 2029, the government will invest €1 billion yearly in affordable housing.

On asylum, the coalition promises “real steps this time” with tighter EU-aligned controls. The distribution law (spreidingswet) stays, procedures get stricter, and if intake spikes, a temporary asylum stop becomes possible. Criminal asylum seekers face harsher treatment, whilst recognised refugees get better integration support.

Climate policy focuses on solving grid congestion (netcongestie), which threatens economic competitiveness. Expect a crisis law on grid congestion, plus investments in offshore wind, green hydrogen, small nuclear reactors, and CO2 storage in the North Sea.

A minority cabinet means haggling for votes

D66, VVD, and CDA will form a minority cabinet, meaning they don’t have a majority in either the Second Chamber (Tweede Kamer) or the First Chamber (Eerste Kamer, the Senate).

This means that for every single piece of legislation they want to pass, ministers in the Jetten cabinet will need to convince one or more opposition parties to support them. No guaranteed majority, no smooth sailing.

Whether today’s presented plans will actually become reality remains very much an open question. The three party leaders have repeatedly stressed they’re “very aware” of their position and committed to working “very hard” to win opposition support.

Who will actually be in the new cabinet?

After today’s presentation and a debate on informateur Letschert’s final report next Tuesday, the three leaders will begin conversations with potential cabinet ministers.

These ministers will also need the ambition to approach opposition parties from across the political spectrum “with an outstretched hand” to secure the necessary majorities.

Regarding cabinet composition, it has been confirmed that Jetten will become the new Prime Minister. Bontenbal has made clear he doesn’t want a ministerial post, preferring to remain chair of the CDA faction in the Second Chamber.

VVD leader Yesilgöz hasn’t revealed her plans yet, though her name circulates as a potential Minister of Defence.

The Jetten cabinet is tentatively scheduled for the royal swearing-in on February 23, though that date remains tentative rather than confirmed.

Will the Netherlands’ newest minority cabinet actually get anything done, or are we in for months of political horse-trading? Share your predictions in the comments.

Delays, cancellations, and countless complaints: what’s going on with Utrecht’s buses?

DutchReview Crew
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Delays, cancellations, and countless complaints: what’s going on with Utrecht’s buses?

Following their takeover of Utrecht’s bus services from QBuzz, the regional transport service Transdev appears unable to keep buses running properly in the Utrecht area. 

The GroenLinks-PvdA party recently launched a hotline to gather more information; they’ve since received hundreds of complaints about the new carrier. 

Here’s what you need to know: 

What’s happening?

According to the complaints, buses are arriving late, being cancelled at the last minute, and passengers are unable to access accurate timetable information. 

Speaking with NOS, one passenger says, “The bus consistently makes me late for work. Because of that, I no longer use the bus.”

Drivers are also having trouble locating their vehicles, causing significant delays. 

Another interviewee said he’d seen buses at the central station with no drivers present, just sitting there. 

Sounds…efficient? 

Looks like you might be better off taking the train, tram, or hopping onto that trusty Dutch bicycle.

Who’s responsible?

According to Labour Party council member Titus Stam, “it’s market forces that are now playing tricks on us. And we’re footing the bill.”

Transdev appears to have had a messy and difficult start in Utrecht after taking over, reports NOS.

busy-bus-stop-in-utrecht-with-passengers-departing-qbuzz-bus-after-many-delays
Following Transdev’s takeover, Utrecht’s bus service has been incredibly unreliable — frustrating commuters. Image: Dreamstime

Unfortunately, citizens are suffering due to the transport company’s lack of preparation. 

Software issues have also affected communication within the company, which certainly isn’t helping. 

So what’s the solution? 

Short-term solutions

Drivers will be receiving a new shift package, reports RTV Utrecht. The company hopes this will clarify employee confusion and reduce the number of bus changes required throughout the day. 

But even Transdev has acknowledged that this won’t fully fix the problem. 

A spokesperson also told NOS that other improvements will be implemented after February 8. 

It is also vital that the company starts addressing staff shortages, information access, and easing demands on individual drivers. 

Long-term solutions

Politically, Labour Party members say the province should instead focus on creating a public service.

Last year, a proposal passed in the House of Representatives that would allow provinces to establish their own public transport companies within their respective regions. 

In other words, bringing buses back into the hands of the people who use them. 

Unfortunately, Transdev has the ability to operate until 2035, almost a decade from now. 

So until things start to shape up, we recommend taking the train to work. 

Have you experienced these disruptions? Let us know in the comments! 

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