🚗 Getting a Dutch Driver’s License
If you're a South African with a valid driver’s license, you can exchange your license for a Dutch one, but there are certain steps to follow:
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Eligibility:
- South Africans can exchange their license only if they qualify for the 30% ruling (a tax benefit for skilled migrants).
- If you do not qualify for this, you'll need to pass the Dutch theory and practical driving tests.
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Steps to Convert Your License:
- Health Declaration: You must submit a Gezondheidsverklaring (Health Declaration) to the CBR (Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing) to confirm that you are medically fit to drive.
- Exchange at Municipality: Once approved, visit your local municipality (gemeente) to request the conversion. You’ll need to bring your current South African license, residence permit, and a passport photo. The fee is around €40.
Link: Dutch Government Driver's License Exchange
🚉 Public Transport System
The Netherlands has one of the best public transport systems in Europe, and it’s highly efficient. Here’s how to make the most of it:
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OV-chipkaart:
- The OV-chipkaart is the national public transport card and is used for trains, trams, buses, and metros. You can top up the card and check in and out at stations.
- There are personal and anonymous versions of the card. The personal one is linked to your details and allows for discounted subscriptions.
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Trains:
- NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) runs the national train network, which connects all major cities. Tickets can be bought online or at stations using your OV-chipkaart.
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Trams and Buses:
- Trams are mostly found in cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam. Buses cover areas where trams and trains don’t reach.
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Bikes:
- Cycling is the most common mode of transport. Most Dutch cities have well-maintained cycling paths, and bikes can also be rented at train stations or via services like OV-fiets.
Link: OV-chipkaart
🚗 Owning a Car
If you're considering buying or leasing a car in the Netherlands, here's what you need to know:
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Buying a Car:
- When purchasing a car, you will need to register it with the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority). You'll receive a registration card that you must keep with you when driving.
- Road tax (motorrijtuigenbelasting) and third-party insurance are mandatory. The cost of road tax depends on the weight of the car and the region where you live.
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Leasing a Car:
- Car leasing is a popular option for expats. Leasing costs typically cover insurance, maintenance, and road tax, making it a convenient option. However, you’ll still need to cover fuel costs and potential excesses for damage.
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Costs:
- Owning a car can be expensive, with road tax averaging €40-100 per month, depending on the type of car. Fuel prices are also high, with petrol averaging €2 per liter.
Link: RDW Vehicle Registration
🚦 Driving Laws and Road Safety
Understanding Dutch traffic laws is essential for safety and avoiding fines: