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Transport

Train, bus and bike

When it comes to transport in the Netherlands, life is made easy. It has one of the best public transport systems worldwide. You can get almost everywhere by train, bus or tram by getting an OV- Chipkaart (Public Transport Card). Another great way to explore Utrecht or Amsterdam is by getting a bike. After all, you’re in the Netherlands! 

Public Transport 

Planning a day trip or your first time to work by public transport? Download the 9292 app or visit their website for directions and you’ll soon be on your way.  

Getting an OV-chipkaart is highly recommended. It can be used for all Dutch public transport services such as the train, bus or tram. Don’t forget to scan your card when entering and exciting the public transport vehicle and ensure having at least €20,- worth of credit on your card when travelling by train.  

There are three types of OV-chipkaart: 

You can buy a personal card through the national  OV- chipkaart website. It’s for personal use only and you can offer authorization to have credit recharged automatically.    
You can share this card with others. You can buy it at public transport service desks, from ticket vending machines in stations and supermarkets such as AH.  
You can only use this card once and you cannot charge credit on it. You can buy the disposable OV-chipkaart from ticket vending machines. 

Hop on your bike 

Go local and get a bike. There are more bikes in the Netherlands than there are people. Holland is relatively flat which makes for an easy trip. You can buy one at a bike shop, find one second-hand on Facebook or consider Swapfiets.   

Taking the car 

Taking your car is an option too, but make sure to pay attention to the following: 

  • Valid driving license 
    An EU driving license is valid for up to 10 years in the Netherlands. Issued by a country from outside the EU it is valid for up to 185 days in the Netherlands. After that period, you are encouraged to trade in your foreign driving license for a Dutch one at the municipality where you are registered. Driving without a valid licence can result in a fine. For more information go to this (Dutch) website.   

  • Insurance 
    If you own a car you are required to insure it. The cost of your insurance will depend on the type of car you drive and your driving history. 

  • MOT inspection 
    The Periodic Technical Inspection (MOT, Dutch APK) is compulsory in Europe. If you own a car the RDW will send you a notification when your car is due for inspection. For more information, please check their website.  

  • Motor Vehicle Tax 
    As soon as you have registered a car on your name you need to pay Motor Vehicle Tax. The amount you need to pay depends on the weight and age of your car and the type of fuel. You can find more information on The Dutch Government’s website.  

  • Traffic rules 
    The Dutch government has issued a leaflet about “Road traffic signs and regulations in the Netherlands”. Be very careful with the cycling traffic: 'Strict Liability' is supported by Dutch law, which means that the driver's insurance is deemed responsible in a collision between a car and a cyclist.