Since August 2024, Ukrainians who are under temporary protection in the Netherlands in accordance with the European Union Directive have been given the opportunity to apply for a driver’s license. This was announced on the official website of the Central Bureau of Driving Rights of the Netherlands (CBR). In this article, we will talk about all the changes that affected Ukrainians who want to get a driver’s license in the Netherlands, as well as the process of obtaining a license.
What has changed in the rules for obtaining a driver’s license
Before the changes, which came into force in August 2024, Ukrainians could only take tests to obtain a driver’s license in the Netherlands, but could not actually obtain a license due to the refusal of municipalities to issue it to refugees. This meant that even after successfully passing the tests, getting a driver’s license was impossible.
With the new rules, the situation has changed. Now Ukrainians who have passed theoretical and practical exams in the Netherlands can apply for a driver’s license in the relevant municipality. This makes it possible to significantly simplify the integration process for those who came to the Netherlands because of the war in Ukraine.
Important information for holders of Ukrainian driver’s licenses
The Central Bureau of Driving Rights (CBR) emphasizes that Ukrainians who have a Ukrainian driver’s license are not required to obtain a Dutch license to drive in the Netherlands. They can continue to use their Ukrainian driver’s licenses even if they have expired. This rule applies to all EU member states, including temporary rights issued to newcomers for two years.
Thus, Ukrainians, who previously did not have a driver’s license or did not drive a car, now have the opportunity to obtain one in the Netherlands, after passing the appropriate training course and passing exams.
How to get a driving license in the Netherlands
The process of obtaining a driver’s license in the Netherlands includes several main stages:
- Practical driving lessons
The first step to obtaining a driver’s license is practical driving lessons. During these classes, you will learn basic driving skills, including shifting and parking. - Theoretical exam
After the beginning of practical classes, it is necessary to pass a theoretical exam. This exam tests knowledge of traffic rules, recognition of road signs and ability to assess dangerous situations on the road. Only after successfully passing the theoretical exam can you be admitted to the practical exam. - Practical exam
When your instructor feels you are ready, and after passing the theory exam, you can take the practical exam. During this test, you must demonstrate your ability to drive safely in a variety of road situations. The test is conducted by the Central Bureau of Driving Licenses (CBR), and you will know the result immediately after it is completed. - Applying for a driver’s license
After successfully passing the practical exam, you will receive a result form from CBR. This form must be submitted to the municipality together with the necessary documents, including a valid ID and a new passport photo. Driving licenses are issued within approximately 5 working days after the application is submitted.
Tuition and exam fees
The process of obtaining a driver’s license in the Netherlands requires certain financial costs, which include:
- Theoretical exam: about 50 euros.
- Driving lessons: about 40-50 euros per lesson.
- Practical exam: about 250 euros.
- Obtaining a driver’s license: the cost depends on the municipality and is about 50 euros on average.
Important details for Ukrainians who drive in the Netherlands
Ukrainians who drive a car with Ukrainian registration in the Netherlands must have a valid “Green Card” insurance policy. This policy covers the costs of compensation for damage caused by road accidents in the Netherlands and other countries that are members of the international agreement on the Green Card. You can issue it online even when you are abroad.
The Dutch government has also extended the scheme of temporary exemption from transport tax (MRB) and tax on passenger cars and motorcycles (BPM) for Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2025, which is an additional support for Ukrainians in this difficult time.
