Cars - NL Host Nation
10. Cars
10.1 Tax exemption and special registration certificate
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs would advise privileged persons to consult Team IFB (see section 9.1 for contact details) about exemptions before purchasing a car in the Netherlands. Exemption from tax may be granted when purchasing or importing a car, depending on the diplomatic mission, consular post and the status of the person concerned. Exemption may be granted from the following taxes:
If the applicable conditions are no longer met, the exemption immediately ceases to apply and the relevant taxes must be paid - Article 32, paragraph 3, State Taxes Act Implementation Order 1994.
This tax exemption is always granted in advance and never in the form of a tax refund. Applications for tax exemption and the issue of a special registration certificate should be supported by the employer and addressed to:
Belastingdienst kantoor Den Haag
Team IFB
Afdeling Motorrijtuigen
Postbus 30509
2500 GM The Hague
The application should include the following information:
10.1.1 Importing or purchasing a car
When importing or purchasing a car, the following situations may occur:
Please note that third-party liability motor vehicle insurance is compulsory.
10.1.2 Purchasing a new car in the Netherlands
When a new and unused car is purchased in the Netherlands, the organisation applies to Team IFB for exemption from tax and the issue of a special registration certificate. Exemption is granted from customs duties (if the car originates outside the EU), VAT and BPM.
NB: These exemptions are not applicable to the purchase of used cars in the Netherlands.
10.1.3 Purchasing a new car outside or importing a new car from outside the Netherlands
When a new and unused car is purchased outside the Netherlands, the procedure for obtaining exemption from tax and applying for a special registration certificate is the same as described in section 12.1.2. Please note that the car must be physically present in the Netherlands.
Applicants should complete the RDW 137 special registration certificate themselves.
10.1.4 Purchasing a used car outside the Netherlands
If a used car is purchased outside the Netherlands but within the EU, BPM must be paid when registering it in the Netherlands. VAT has been paid in the country where the vehicle was purchased. A used car means a car older than six months and/or with more than 6,000 km on the odometer. Exemption from BPM is granted on the basis of a Douane 39 form. An exemption is only granted if the car will be issued with special registration plates in the Netherlands. The exemption ends when the car is sold or otherwise disposed of. A copy of the foreign registration certificate should be enclosed with the above-mentioned documents.
10.1.5 Purchasing a car from another staff member
If a car already covered by a tax exemption is bought by a privileged person, it is only necessary to submit a Note Verbale, the completed Douane 39 form, an RDW 137 special registration certificate application form, the original special registration certificate, the APK report (proof of annual vehicle inspection as required by law), an insurance certificate and a copy of the sales agreement drawn up between the people concerned. The granted exemption will be included on the new special registration certificate that will be issued. The same conditions will apply to this new certificate.
10.1.6 Motor vehicles without European-type approval
These motor vehicles will be temporarily approved for use on public roads if they have a special registration plate (CD/BN/GN).
When converting a special registration into a regular Dutch registration, please note that an individual assessment is needed to obtain a regular registration. The vehicle may also be required to be modified. The costs of European-type approval and modifications to the vehicle (if necessary) may be significant. Before submitting a request to waive temporary exemption and an application to convert a special registration plate (CD/BN/GN) into a regular Dutch registration plate to Team IFB, it is advisable to contact the RDW in Veendam. Information you can find at: rdw information.
10.2 Selling a tax-free car and waiving exemption
If a car is no longer used for the purpose for which the exemption was granted, the relevant taxes are due.
The car should not be given away, hired out or in any other way put at the disposal of third parties.
When new or second-hand motor vehicles imported from abroad (which fall into categories B and D) are sold in the Netherlands to a person who does not possess a privileged status, the vehicle will first have to be technically inspected in order to obtain ordinary Dutch registration documents. The parties concerned are responsible for paying the costs of the inspection.
If a privileged person wishes to sell a tax-free car to a non-privileged person, a written request should be submitted to Team IFB to waive the exemption on the requirement to pay tax. Team IFB will calculate the tax and send the owner concerned a request for payment stating the amount of tax due. Once the tax has been paid, Team IFB will agree to issue an ordinary Dutch registration plate for the car. If the tax has not been (fully) paid, Team IFB cannot approve the exempted purchase of a new motor vehicle with a special registration plate.
To apply for a Dutch registration certificate, the following documents should be submitted to Team IFB in The Hague (Haaglanden.CB_IFB@belastingdienst.nl):
10.3 Scrapping cars
If you want your car to be scrapped, it is first necessary to obtain written permission from Team IFB by submitting a request to that effect. Team IFB will then send a notice stating whether it will grant permission and under what conditions. Team IFB will inform the RDW in Veendam that the car has been scrapped. The RDW will send a letter to confirm the registration has been ended.
10.4 Exporting a tax-free car
If a tax-free car is exported, the following situations may occur:
Person with exemption leaves diplomatic mission or consular post and takes car to country of destination
In this case, a Note Verbale, a copy of the registration certificate and a ‘Request to waive the tax exemption for a vehicle’ form should be sent to Team IFB. Team IFB will inform the RDW in Veendam that the car has been exported and request that the car’s special registration be terminated after three months. This allows enough time for transportation and de-registration. The RDW will inform the person concerned in writing and the special registration will be cancelled as of the date mentioned in the letter. If you do not return the registration certificate, the CBM (Centraal Bureau Motorrijtuigenbelasting) in Apeldoorn will continue to send the owner motor vehicle tax bills (if applicable). The RDW will inform the person concerned in writing and the special registration will be cancelled as of the date mentioned in the letter.
Person with exemption continues working at diplomatic mission or consular post and car is exported
If the car is exported outside the EU, a copy of the registration certificate should be sent to Team IFB. Team IFB will inform the RDW in Veendam and the CBM in Apeldoorn that the car has been exported. If you do not return the registration certificate, the CBM will continue to send motor vehicle tax bills to the owner (if applicable). The RDW will inform the person concerned in writing and the special registration will be cancelled as of the date mentioned in the letter.
If a vehicle is exported outside the Netherlands but remains within the EU, VAT and possibly customs duties are due since the car is no longer being used for the purpose for which the exemption was granted. In this case, Team IFB should be informed (in writing) that the car is going to be exported to an EU member state. A request to waive the tax exemption should be submitted. A copy of the registration certificate should be enclosed with this request. Team IFB will calculate the VAT and, if applicable, the customs duties. Team IFB will send the owner the calculation of the taxes due and a request for payment. After the registration certificate has been returned, Team IFB will inform the RDW in Veendam and CBM in Apeldoorn that the car has been exported. If you do not cancel the special registration and do not return the registration certificate, the CBM will continue to send the owner motor vehicle tax bills (if applicable).
The RDW will inform the person concerned in writing and the special registration will be cancelled as of the date mentioned in the letter.
10.5 Change of address
The RDW in Veendam uses the data registered in the personal records database of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (PROBAS) to register and issue special registration plates. For proper registration of your vehicle, it is important to notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as soon as possible of any changes to your home address. If the address on your registration certificate is no longer correct, it is not necessary to apply for a new registration certificate. It will be changed in the vehicle registration database when your address is updated in PROBAS.
10.6 Driving licences
Driving in the Netherlands is only permitted with a valid driving licence. Driving without a driving licence is a criminal offence. Privileged persons with a valid driving licence are allowed to drive with their foreign driving licence in the Netherlands in combination with a valid privileged person’s identity card issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is not necessary to show your privileged person’s identity card, though you are strongly advised to keep it on hand at all times. Privileged persons may exchange their foreign driving licence for a Dutch driving licence by following procedure a or b in section 12.6.1 below.
10.6.1 Exchanging a foreign driving licence
In order to exchange a foreign driving licence for a Dutch driving licence, the applicant can follow one of the following two procedures:
Personal details
Required documents
The instructions accompanying the application form will explain what documents must be submitted with the completed and signed form, in order to exchange the foreign driving licence for a Dutch driving licence.
Submitting the application
The completed application form, along with the required documents, can be sent to:
RDW
Unit Rijbewijzen
Postbus 9000
9640 HA Veendam
Rdw.nl
Rdw.nl manual and documents
Processing applications
Applications are generally processed in about 10 working days. If everything is in order, the privileged person will receive a new Dutch driving licence at the Dutch postal address of the mission or post as stated on your diplomatic identification card.
For more information on exchanging a foreign driving licence, please consult the RDW instructions for the ‘driving licence application (non-) resident in the Netherlands (3 E 0395)’ form. For any questions regarding licences, please contact the RDW at rijbewijsmailing@rdw.nl
10.7 Practical information
Competency Health certificate
Sometimes in order to renew a Dutch driving licence, it is necessary to submit a certificate declaring you competent to drive (Verklaring van Geschiktheid). This can be requested from the Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheid, CBR). The instructions explain who needs to submit such a Health Certificate.
When your driving licence expires
If your Dutch driving licence expires, you are entitled to renew it. You are not permitted to drive with an expired licence.
Changes of address
Privileged persons (with or without special registration plates) should notify the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of their new address.
Application for a Dutch driving licence
Privileged persons wishing to apply for a Dutch driving licence, after passing a driving test in the Netherlands, can do so if they are registered in the BRP of the municipality where they reside. It is also possible to apply with the RDW. General information about this subject you can find at: https://www.rdw.nl/en/driving-licence
Regarding driving licences in the Netherlands, please contact the RDW by phone or email using the details below:
Unit Rijbewijzen
Email: rijbewijsmailing@rdw.nl
Tel.: +31 (0)88 008 7407
Fax: +31 (0)598 69 9192
10.8 Annual Vehicle Inspection (APK) and Civil Liability Insurance (Motor Vehicles) Act (WAM)
In Europe, all vehicles have to undergo a periodic technical inspection (known as APK in the Netherlands) in the interests of improving road safety and protecting the environment. Adequate information, especially on the inspection periods (which vary, depending on the age of the vehicle and the fuel type used), can be found online at Rdw information technical inspection apk. Vehicles must be inspected in good time through a wide network of car dealers and garages, which will simultaneously forward the data to the competent authorities.
Information on which garages can perform this inspection and enter the inspection data into the official registry can be obtained from garages, car dealers and the RDW.
The Civil Liability Insurance (Motor Vehicles) Act (Wet Aansprakelijkelijkheidsverzekeringen motorrijtuigen, WAM) makes basic insurance for registered motor vehicles compulsory. It is an offence to use any motor vehicle without valid insurance.
This insurance, offered by insurance companies in the Netherlands, exclusively provides parties with limited coverage for legal liability – for bodily injury, death and damage to property – while using a registered vehicle.
Each motor vehicle registered in the Netherlands must be registered in the official insurance register of the RDW in Veendam. This has to be done by an insurance company that can make registrations in the RDW insurance register. Usually, this means it involves a Dutch insurance company. Dutch insurance companies ensure that the necessary insurance details, including WAM coverage, are registered accordingly. International insurance companies that want to make registrations in the insurance register must be registered with De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) (under “Motor Vehicle Liability (S10A)” under the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wft)) and have a CRWAM-code of the RDW. Please make sure that your international insurance company fulfills the requirements to ensure a car in the Netherlands.
10.9 Parking
Parking near diplomatic missions and consular posts or official residences
The municipal authorities have full autonomy when it comes to setting policy on reserved parking bays. The municipality of The Hague is in principle willing, where necessary and possible, to mark two parking bays as reserved bays on public highways outside the main offices of a diplomatic mission or consular post and one outside the official residence of the head of mission or head of post. Whether or not these reserved parking bays are granted depends on the parking situation and the possibilities for public parking nearby. These parking bays may be used only by cars belonging to the mission or post, not by visitors. Even though the parking bays are reserved, it is still necessary to apply for a parking permit. It is advisable to apply for a ‘functional permit’, which allows parking throughout the city.
To apply for reserved parking, write directly to:
Municipality of The Hague
City Management Office (Stadsbeheer)
Highways and Waterways Sector (Sector Wegen en Water)
Permits Division (Afdeling Vergunningen)
P.O. Box 12651
2500 DP The Hague
or email:gereserveerdeplaatsen.parkeren@denhaag.nl
Visitors’ cars
Visitors will have to use the normal parking spaces and pay any applicable parking fees. Visitors’ cars that are parked illegally will be treated by the traffic police like any other illegally parked cars. The mission can apply for a special visitor’s permit from the municipality of The Hague. For more information, contact the City Management Office (Stadsbeheer) on +31 (0)70 353 3000.
Parking during receptions or other events
If a diplomatic mission or consular post holds a reception or another event, The Hague municipal police are prepared to provide assistance wherever possible to ensure that guests are able to park satisfactorily. The mission or post should inform the Protocol Department by way of a Note Verbale as far in advance as possible, and in any event at least four weeks in advance.
The following information must be provided in the Note Verbale:
The Protocol Department will forward the Note Verbale containing the details mentioned above to the competent authorities, who will decide on the traffic measures to be taken. For more details, please contact the Diplomatic Front Office in The Hague on +31 (0)88 964 9649.
Municipality of Wassenaar
The rules for the municipality of Wassenaar are different. The police force there is willing to consider all requests from diplomatic missions or consular posts for assistance with parking near the official residences of heads of mission or heads of post in Wassenaar. Whether the request is granted depends on the number of guests, and the time and place of the event in question. Diplomatic missions and consular posts should approach the Chief Commissioner of Police responsible for the diplomatic corps in Wassenaar.
Parking meters and car park charges
The Ministry is frequently asked about parking meters and car park charges. No exemptions are possible from these charges, because they are levied by the municipality for specific services rendered. Like anyone else, the staff of diplomatic missions and consular posts must therefore pay parking fees.
How to obtain a parking permit
The following applies to residents of The Hague: in many parts of The Hague, residents need a parking permit to park their car in the street where they live. Staff members of diplomatic missions and consular posts driving vehicles with CD, GN or BN registration plates can obtain a parking permit for the area of The Hague in which they live by providing evidence of their address (such as a tenancy agreement) and their Ministry of Foreign Affairs identity card. The cost of this permit varies, depending on the area.
Staff members with a reserved parking space in an area of The Hague where parking permits are required must hold such a permit. They must pay for the permit themselves.
For more information, staff members can contact the City Management Office on +31 (0)70 353 3000 or email to parkeervergunningen@denhaag.nl. Information is also available through The Hague International Centre, located in the atrium of City Hall, Spui 70, The Hague (+31 (0)70 353 5043).
10.9.1 Parking violations
Under article 41 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, it is the duty of all persons enjoying privileges and immunities to respect the laws and regulations of the receiving State. This also applies to municipal parking regulations. Any violation may lead to the issuing of a parking ticket. A parking ticket is not a traffic fine, but rather a levy by the respective municipality for the improper use of a parking space, or unauthorised parking in non-designated area.
The Ministry expects any matters relating to parking violations to be dealt with accordingly by diplomatic missions and their staff members.
10.10 Parking near the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
General
The nearest parking facility to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the Q-Park Rijnstraat.
Using a chauffeur-driven car
Members of the diplomatic corps using a chauffeur-driven car to visit the Ministry (marked ‘1’ on the map below) may use the VIP entrance at Schedeldoekshaven (marked ‘2’ on the map below) after making an appointment with the Ministry. You are advised to make arrangements well in advance with the secretariat of the Protocol Department, tel. +31 (0)70 348 4905. After passing through the vehicle gate the chauffeur should leave the passenger at the entrance to the building, where the latter should identify him/herself to the security officer on duty and state the reason for the visit. The security officer will then contact the Ministry official with whom the visitor has the appointment. In the meantime the chauffeur can park the car in the VIP garage and await the passenger’s return.
Delivery of documents
Visitors coming by car (chauffeur-driven or otherwise) wishing to deliver large documents for specific departments or officials should report to Oranjebuitensingel 8 (via the transport official), while those with chauffeur-driven cars wishing to deliver other documents should report to the Central Mail Room counter at Oranjebuitensingel 8 (marked ‘3’ on the map below).
10.10.1 Map
< back to protocolguide
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs would advise privileged persons to consult Team IFB (see section 9.1 for contact details) about exemptions before purchasing a car in the Netherlands. Exemption from tax may be granted when purchasing or importing a car, depending on the diplomatic mission, consular post and the status of the person concerned. Exemption may be granted from the following taxes:
- customs duties and VAT when importing a car into the European Union and registering that car in the Netherlands with special registration plates;
- VAT on the purchase of a new car in the EU if the car will be registered in the Netherlands with special registration plates;
- car and motorcycle tax (belasting op personenauto’s en motorrijwielen, BPM) when registering a car or motorcycle in the Netherlands with special registration plates;
- motor vehicle tax (motorrijtuigenbelasting, MRB) for cars registered in the Netherlands with special registration plates.
If the applicable conditions are no longer met, the exemption immediately ceases to apply and the relevant taxes must be paid - Article 32, paragraph 3, State Taxes Act Implementation Order 1994.
This tax exemption is always granted in advance and never in the form of a tax refund. Applications for tax exemption and the issue of a special registration certificate should be supported by the employer and addressed to:
Belastingdienst kantoor Den Haag
Team IFB
Afdeling Motorrijtuigen
Postbus 30509
2500 GM The Hague
The application should include the following information:
- name and full address of the privileged person concerned;
- citizen service number (BSN);
- nationality;
- place of residence at the time of recruitment;
- date on which employment with the diplomatic mission or consular post commenced.
- a completed Douane 39 (D39) form;
- a copy of the sales contract;
- the RDW 137 special registration certificate application form. Blank forms can be obtained from the Road Transport Agency (Dienst Wegverkeer, RDW) in Veendam by telephoning + 31 (0)598 699 242 or emailing bk@rdw.nl;
- a copy of the certificate of conformity (certificaat van overeenstemming, CVO);
- a document demonstrating that the car has been or will be insured;
- a registration certificate for the car, if one has already been issued;
- a valid foreign vehicle inspection test report (if available), so that the annual vehicle inspection (APK) expiration date can be registered.
10.1.1 Importing or purchasing a car
When importing or purchasing a car, the following situations may occur:
- a new car is purchased in the Netherlands;
- a new car is imported from abroad;
- a used car is imported into the Netherlands;
- a car is purchased within the diplomatic mission or consular post.
Please note that third-party liability motor vehicle insurance is compulsory.
10.1.2 Purchasing a new car in the Netherlands
When a new and unused car is purchased in the Netherlands, the organisation applies to Team IFB for exemption from tax and the issue of a special registration certificate. Exemption is granted from customs duties (if the car originates outside the EU), VAT and BPM.
NB: These exemptions are not applicable to the purchase of used cars in the Netherlands.
10.1.3 Purchasing a new car outside or importing a new car from outside the Netherlands
When a new and unused car is purchased outside the Netherlands, the procedure for obtaining exemption from tax and applying for a special registration certificate is the same as described in section 12.1.2. Please note that the car must be physically present in the Netherlands.
Applicants should complete the RDW 137 special registration certificate themselves.
10.1.4 Purchasing a used car outside the Netherlands
If a used car is purchased outside the Netherlands but within the EU, BPM must be paid when registering it in the Netherlands. VAT has been paid in the country where the vehicle was purchased. A used car means a car older than six months and/or with more than 6,000 km on the odometer. Exemption from BPM is granted on the basis of a Douane 39 form. An exemption is only granted if the car will be issued with special registration plates in the Netherlands. The exemption ends when the car is sold or otherwise disposed of. A copy of the foreign registration certificate should be enclosed with the above-mentioned documents.
10.1.5 Purchasing a car from another staff member
If a car already covered by a tax exemption is bought by a privileged person, it is only necessary to submit a Note Verbale, the completed Douane 39 form, an RDW 137 special registration certificate application form, the original special registration certificate, the APK report (proof of annual vehicle inspection as required by law), an insurance certificate and a copy of the sales agreement drawn up between the people concerned. The granted exemption will be included on the new special registration certificate that will be issued. The same conditions will apply to this new certificate.
10.1.6 Motor vehicles without European-type approval
These motor vehicles will be temporarily approved for use on public roads if they have a special registration plate (CD/BN/GN).
When converting a special registration into a regular Dutch registration, please note that an individual assessment is needed to obtain a regular registration. The vehicle may also be required to be modified. The costs of European-type approval and modifications to the vehicle (if necessary) may be significant. Before submitting a request to waive temporary exemption and an application to convert a special registration plate (CD/BN/GN) into a regular Dutch registration plate to Team IFB, it is advisable to contact the RDW in Veendam. Information you can find at: rdw information.
10.2 Selling a tax-free car and waiving exemption
If a car is no longer used for the purpose for which the exemption was granted, the relevant taxes are due.
The car should not be given away, hired out or in any other way put at the disposal of third parties.
When new or second-hand motor vehicles imported from abroad (which fall into categories B and D) are sold in the Netherlands to a person who does not possess a privileged status, the vehicle will first have to be technically inspected in order to obtain ordinary Dutch registration documents. The parties concerned are responsible for paying the costs of the inspection.
If a privileged person wishes to sell a tax-free car to a non-privileged person, a written request should be submitted to Team IFB to waive the exemption on the requirement to pay tax. Team IFB will calculate the tax and send the owner concerned a request for payment stating the amount of tax due. Once the tax has been paid, Team IFB will agree to issue an ordinary Dutch registration plate for the car. If the tax has not been (fully) paid, Team IFB cannot approve the exempted purchase of a new motor vehicle with a special registration plate.
To apply for a Dutch registration certificate, the following documents should be submitted to Team IFB in The Hague (Haaglanden.CB_IFB@belastingdienst.nl):
- A Note Verbale or official letter with the request to waive the exemption;
- An RDW 134 registration certificate application form (upon request available at Team IFB); • The original special registration certificate;
- The APK (Annual Vehicle Inspection) report;
- A copy of the passport of the person selling the car;
10.3 Scrapping cars
If you want your car to be scrapped, it is first necessary to obtain written permission from Team IFB by submitting a request to that effect. Team IFB will then send a notice stating whether it will grant permission and under what conditions. Team IFB will inform the RDW in Veendam that the car has been scrapped. The RDW will send a letter to confirm the registration has been ended.
10.4 Exporting a tax-free car
If a tax-free car is exported, the following situations may occur:
Person with exemption leaves diplomatic mission or consular post and takes car to country of destination
In this case, a Note Verbale, a copy of the registration certificate and a ‘Request to waive the tax exemption for a vehicle’ form should be sent to Team IFB. Team IFB will inform the RDW in Veendam that the car has been exported and request that the car’s special registration be terminated after three months. This allows enough time for transportation and de-registration. The RDW will inform the person concerned in writing and the special registration will be cancelled as of the date mentioned in the letter. If you do not return the registration certificate, the CBM (Centraal Bureau Motorrijtuigenbelasting) in Apeldoorn will continue to send the owner motor vehicle tax bills (if applicable). The RDW will inform the person concerned in writing and the special registration will be cancelled as of the date mentioned in the letter.
Person with exemption continues working at diplomatic mission or consular post and car is exported
If the car is exported outside the EU, a copy of the registration certificate should be sent to Team IFB. Team IFB will inform the RDW in Veendam and the CBM in Apeldoorn that the car has been exported. If you do not return the registration certificate, the CBM will continue to send motor vehicle tax bills to the owner (if applicable). The RDW will inform the person concerned in writing and the special registration will be cancelled as of the date mentioned in the letter.
If a vehicle is exported outside the Netherlands but remains within the EU, VAT and possibly customs duties are due since the car is no longer being used for the purpose for which the exemption was granted. In this case, Team IFB should be informed (in writing) that the car is going to be exported to an EU member state. A request to waive the tax exemption should be submitted. A copy of the registration certificate should be enclosed with this request. Team IFB will calculate the VAT and, if applicable, the customs duties. Team IFB will send the owner the calculation of the taxes due and a request for payment. After the registration certificate has been returned, Team IFB will inform the RDW in Veendam and CBM in Apeldoorn that the car has been exported. If you do not cancel the special registration and do not return the registration certificate, the CBM will continue to send the owner motor vehicle tax bills (if applicable).
The RDW will inform the person concerned in writing and the special registration will be cancelled as of the date mentioned in the letter.
10.5 Change of address
The RDW in Veendam uses the data registered in the personal records database of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (PROBAS) to register and issue special registration plates. For proper registration of your vehicle, it is important to notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as soon as possible of any changes to your home address. If the address on your registration certificate is no longer correct, it is not necessary to apply for a new registration certificate. It will be changed in the vehicle registration database when your address is updated in PROBAS.
10.6 Driving licences
Driving in the Netherlands is only permitted with a valid driving licence. Driving without a driving licence is a criminal offence. Privileged persons with a valid driving licence are allowed to drive with their foreign driving licence in the Netherlands in combination with a valid privileged person’s identity card issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is not necessary to show your privileged person’s identity card, though you are strongly advised to keep it on hand at all times. Privileged persons may exchange their foreign driving licence for a Dutch driving licence by following procedure a or b in section 12.6.1 below.
10.6.1 Exchanging a foreign driving licence
In order to exchange a foreign driving licence for a Dutch driving licence, the applicant can follow one of the following two procedures:
- submit the application to the RDW directly (EU/EEA, non-EU/EEA licences or no registration in the municipal Personal Records Database (BRP));
- submit the application to the municipality, which will then forward it to the RDW. This procedure is only applicable when the applicant is the holder of an EU/EEA, non EU/EEA driving licence and is also registered in the BRP. (Send in a copy of your identity card privileged person’s.)
Personal details
- Citizen service number (BSN)
- Name (i.e. first name, up to five initials, surname)
- Dutch postal address (including postal code)
- Foreign address (including postal code and country)
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Telephone number
Required documents
The instructions accompanying the application form will explain what documents must be submitted with the completed and signed form, in order to exchange the foreign driving licence for a Dutch driving licence.
Submitting the application
The completed application form, along with the required documents, can be sent to:
RDW
Unit Rijbewijzen
Postbus 9000
9640 HA Veendam
Rdw.nl
Rdw.nl manual and documents
Processing applications
Applications are generally processed in about 10 working days. If everything is in order, the privileged person will receive a new Dutch driving licence at the Dutch postal address of the mission or post as stated on your diplomatic identification card.
For more information on exchanging a foreign driving licence, please consult the RDW instructions for the ‘driving licence application (non-) resident in the Netherlands (3 E 0395)’ form. For any questions regarding licences, please contact the RDW at rijbewijsmailing@rdw.nl
10.7 Practical information
Competency Health certificate
Sometimes in order to renew a Dutch driving licence, it is necessary to submit a certificate declaring you competent to drive (Verklaring van Geschiktheid). This can be requested from the Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheid, CBR). The instructions explain who needs to submit such a Health Certificate.
When your driving licence expires
If your Dutch driving licence expires, you are entitled to renew it. You are not permitted to drive with an expired licence.
Changes of address
Privileged persons (with or without special registration plates) should notify the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of their new address.
Application for a Dutch driving licence
Privileged persons wishing to apply for a Dutch driving licence, after passing a driving test in the Netherlands, can do so if they are registered in the BRP of the municipality where they reside. It is also possible to apply with the RDW. General information about this subject you can find at: https://www.rdw.nl/en/driving-licence
Regarding driving licences in the Netherlands, please contact the RDW by phone or email using the details below:
Unit Rijbewijzen
Email: rijbewijsmailing@rdw.nl
Tel.: +31 (0)88 008 7407
Fax: +31 (0)598 69 9192
10.8 Annual Vehicle Inspection (APK) and Civil Liability Insurance (Motor Vehicles) Act (WAM)
In Europe, all vehicles have to undergo a periodic technical inspection (known as APK in the Netherlands) in the interests of improving road safety and protecting the environment. Adequate information, especially on the inspection periods (which vary, depending on the age of the vehicle and the fuel type used), can be found online at Rdw information technical inspection apk. Vehicles must be inspected in good time through a wide network of car dealers and garages, which will simultaneously forward the data to the competent authorities.
Information on which garages can perform this inspection and enter the inspection data into the official registry can be obtained from garages, car dealers and the RDW.
The Civil Liability Insurance (Motor Vehicles) Act (Wet Aansprakelijkelijkheidsverzekeringen motorrijtuigen, WAM) makes basic insurance for registered motor vehicles compulsory. It is an offence to use any motor vehicle without valid insurance.
This insurance, offered by insurance companies in the Netherlands, exclusively provides parties with limited coverage for legal liability – for bodily injury, death and damage to property – while using a registered vehicle.
Each motor vehicle registered in the Netherlands must be registered in the official insurance register of the RDW in Veendam. This has to be done by an insurance company that can make registrations in the RDW insurance register. Usually, this means it involves a Dutch insurance company. Dutch insurance companies ensure that the necessary insurance details, including WAM coverage, are registered accordingly. International insurance companies that want to make registrations in the insurance register must be registered with De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) (under “Motor Vehicle Liability (S10A)” under the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wft)) and have a CRWAM-code of the RDW. Please make sure that your international insurance company fulfills the requirements to ensure a car in the Netherlands.
10.9 Parking
Parking near diplomatic missions and consular posts or official residences
The municipal authorities have full autonomy when it comes to setting policy on reserved parking bays. The municipality of The Hague is in principle willing, where necessary and possible, to mark two parking bays as reserved bays on public highways outside the main offices of a diplomatic mission or consular post and one outside the official residence of the head of mission or head of post. Whether or not these reserved parking bays are granted depends on the parking situation and the possibilities for public parking nearby. These parking bays may be used only by cars belonging to the mission or post, not by visitors. Even though the parking bays are reserved, it is still necessary to apply for a parking permit. It is advisable to apply for a ‘functional permit’, which allows parking throughout the city.
To apply for reserved parking, write directly to:
Municipality of The Hague
City Management Office (Stadsbeheer)
Highways and Waterways Sector (Sector Wegen en Water)
Permits Division (Afdeling Vergunningen)
P.O. Box 12651
2500 DP The Hague
or email:gereserveerdeplaatsen.parkeren@denhaag.nl
Visitors’ cars
Visitors will have to use the normal parking spaces and pay any applicable parking fees. Visitors’ cars that are parked illegally will be treated by the traffic police like any other illegally parked cars. The mission can apply for a special visitor’s permit from the municipality of The Hague. For more information, contact the City Management Office (Stadsbeheer) on +31 (0)70 353 3000.
Parking during receptions or other events
If a diplomatic mission or consular post holds a reception or another event, The Hague municipal police are prepared to provide assistance wherever possible to ensure that guests are able to park satisfactorily. The mission or post should inform the Protocol Department by way of a Note Verbale as far in advance as possible, and in any event at least four weeks in advance.
The following information must be provided in the Note Verbale:
- the date and time of the event;
- the address of the venue;
- the number of expected guests;
- the contact person’s details;
- requested measures (parking measures, blocking streets, traffic control, etc.).
The Protocol Department will forward the Note Verbale containing the details mentioned above to the competent authorities, who will decide on the traffic measures to be taken. For more details, please contact the Diplomatic Front Office in The Hague on +31 (0)88 964 9649.
Municipality of Wassenaar
The rules for the municipality of Wassenaar are different. The police force there is willing to consider all requests from diplomatic missions or consular posts for assistance with parking near the official residences of heads of mission or heads of post in Wassenaar. Whether the request is granted depends on the number of guests, and the time and place of the event in question. Diplomatic missions and consular posts should approach the Chief Commissioner of Police responsible for the diplomatic corps in Wassenaar.
Parking meters and car park charges
The Ministry is frequently asked about parking meters and car park charges. No exemptions are possible from these charges, because they are levied by the municipality for specific services rendered. Like anyone else, the staff of diplomatic missions and consular posts must therefore pay parking fees.
How to obtain a parking permit
The following applies to residents of The Hague: in many parts of The Hague, residents need a parking permit to park their car in the street where they live. Staff members of diplomatic missions and consular posts driving vehicles with CD, GN or BN registration plates can obtain a parking permit for the area of The Hague in which they live by providing evidence of their address (such as a tenancy agreement) and their Ministry of Foreign Affairs identity card. The cost of this permit varies, depending on the area.
Staff members with a reserved parking space in an area of The Hague where parking permits are required must hold such a permit. They must pay for the permit themselves.
For more information, staff members can contact the City Management Office on +31 (0)70 353 3000 or email to parkeervergunningen@denhaag.nl. Information is also available through The Hague International Centre, located in the atrium of City Hall, Spui 70, The Hague (+31 (0)70 353 5043).
10.9.1 Parking violations
Under article 41 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, it is the duty of all persons enjoying privileges and immunities to respect the laws and regulations of the receiving State. This also applies to municipal parking regulations. Any violation may lead to the issuing of a parking ticket. A parking ticket is not a traffic fine, but rather a levy by the respective municipality for the improper use of a parking space, or unauthorised parking in non-designated area.
The Ministry expects any matters relating to parking violations to be dealt with accordingly by diplomatic missions and their staff members.
10.10 Parking near the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
General
The nearest parking facility to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the Q-Park Rijnstraat.
Using a chauffeur-driven car
Members of the diplomatic corps using a chauffeur-driven car to visit the Ministry (marked ‘1’ on the map below) may use the VIP entrance at Schedeldoekshaven (marked ‘2’ on the map below) after making an appointment with the Ministry. You are advised to make arrangements well in advance with the secretariat of the Protocol Department, tel. +31 (0)70 348 4905. After passing through the vehicle gate the chauffeur should leave the passenger at the entrance to the building, where the latter should identify him/herself to the security officer on duty and state the reason for the visit. The security officer will then contact the Ministry official with whom the visitor has the appointment. In the meantime the chauffeur can park the car in the VIP garage and await the passenger’s return.
Delivery of documents
Visitors coming by car (chauffeur-driven or otherwise) wishing to deliver large documents for specific departments or officials should report to Oranjebuitensingel 8 (via the transport official), while those with chauffeur-driven cars wishing to deliver other documents should report to the Central Mail Room counter at Oranjebuitensingel 8 (marked ‘3’ on the map below).
10.10.1 Map
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Source: Google maps