Getting Your Netherlands Driver’s License? Here’s What You’ll Pay
Getting a driver’s license in the Netherlands is not cheap. When I first looked into it, I was shocked at how expensive the whole process was compared to other countries. From driving lessons to exam fees and license application costs, you’re looking at anywhere from €2,500 to €3,500 total!
But don’t worry—I’m here to break it all down for you. Whether you’re an expat, a student, or a Dutch resident, this guide will help you understand how much you need to budget and how to save money on your license.
How Much Does a Dutch Driver’s License Cost in 2025?
The total price of getting a driver’s license in the Netherlands depends on several factors:
✅ Driving lessons (most expensive part!)
✅ Theory test & practical exam fees
✅ License application costs
✅ Retake fees (if needed)
Most people spend between €2,500 and €3,500 to get fully licensed. Let’s break it down step by step.
Full Breakdown: Cost of Getting a Driver’s License in the Netherlands
| Expense | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Theory Exam (CBR) | €41 |
| Driving Lessons (30–40 lessons @ ~€50 each) | €1,500–€2,000 |
| Practical Driving Test (CBR) | €122 |
| Application for License (Gemeente) | €41 |
| Retake Fees (if needed) | €100–€250 per test |
| Urgent Application Processing | €75 extra |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED COST | €2,500–€3,500 |
💡 Want to save money? I’ll share some tips later!
Driving Lessons in the Netherlands – Your Biggest Expense!
How Many Lessons Do You Need?
Most students in the Netherlands take 30–40 lessons before they’re ready for the practical exam. The more lessons you take, the more expensive it gets!
Cost Per Lesson
- Private lessons: €40–€60 per session
- Lesson packages (10-lesson bundles): Usually slightly cheaper per lesson
I learned this the hard way! I booked my lessons one by one, only to realize that a 30-lesson package could have saved me a few hundred euros.
How to Save Money on Driving Lessons
🚗 Compare driving schools – Prices vary significantly between schools
🚗 Take practice tests early – If you’re confident, you’ll need fewer lessons
🚗 Use online theory courses – No need to pay for expensive in-person classes
Theory and Practical Exam Fees in the Netherlands
Before you can take the driving test, you must pass the CBR theory exam.
Theory Test Price
- Cost: €41
- Pass rate: ~50% (so study well!)
Practical Driving Test Price
- Standard exam fee: €122
- Urgent booking: €288 (for faster scheduling)
- Extra cost if your driving school books the test for you (~€150)
💡 If you fail the test, you’ll need to pay again for a retake!
Cost of Exchanging a Foreign Driver’s License in the Netherlands
If you’re an expat or an international student, you might be able to exchange your foreign license instead of going through the full process.
Who Can Exchange Their License?
- EU/EEA residents (no test required)
- Expats with the 30% tax ruling
- Drivers from approved countries (e.g., Japan, South Korea, Canada)
Exchange Cost
- €41–€50 (varies by municipality)
- Takes 3–4 weeks for processing
If your license isn’t from an approved country, you must take the full Dutch driving test.
Renewing a Dutch Driver’s License – 2024 Costs
Dutch driver’s licenses are valid for 10 years. When it’s time to renew, here’s what you’ll pay:
✅ Standard renewal fee: €41–€50
✅ Urgent processing fee: +€75
✅ Where to apply? Your local gemeente (town hall) or online via RDW
What If You Fail the Driving Test? Retake Fees
Not everyone passes on the first try (I certainly didn’t!). Here’s what you’ll pay for retakes:
- Theory test retake: €41
- Practical driving test retake: €122
- Urgent retake fee: €288
Some driving schools charge extra fees for scheduling a retake, so always check before signing up!
How to Save Money on Your Dutch Driver’s License
💰 Pick a driving school with the best rates – Prices vary between €40–€60 per lesson
💰 Take fewer lessons – Practice with friends or a driving simulator to improve faster
💰 Book tests yourself – Some driving schools charge extra to book your CBR test
💰 Don’t pay for urgent processing unless necessary – Avoid the extra €75 fee
FAQs – Your Questions Answered
Why is getting a driver’s license in the Netherlands so expensive?
It’s mostly because of driving lessons, which are more expensive than in many other countries. The average student needs 30–40 lessons before they’re test-ready.
Can I pay for my driver’s license in installments?
Some driving schools offer installment payment plans, but always check the terms!
How long does it take to get a Dutch driver’s license?
It depends on how often you take lessons and how quickly you pass your tests. On average, it takes 3–6 months.
Is there a way for expats to get a license cheaper?
If you qualify for a foreign license exchange, you only need to pay €41 instead of taking lessons and tests!
Final Thoughts – Is a Dutch Driver’s License Worth the Cost?
Yes, it’s expensive—but if you plan to live in the Netherlands long-term, having a Dutch driver’s license is incredibly useful.
🚗 My advice:
✅ Compare driving schools before booking lessons
✅ Take a package deal to save money
✅ Book your tests early to avoid delays
Don’t waste time and money—contact us today and secure your Dutch International license the easy way!