Is it expensive to drive in the Netherlands? Driving in the Netherlands is often praised for its safety, efficiency, and excellent road infrastructure.

But one common question many residents, expats, and prospective drivers ask is: Is it expensive to drive in the Netherlands?

The answer will be given in this article. Driving in the Netherlands can be expensive, especially when you factor in taxes, fuel prices, insurance, and the Netherlands’ driving test, which is known for being both costly and demanding.

Walk with us as we break down every major cost of driving, explain why the Netherlands’ driving test plays such a big role in overall expenses, and help you decide whether owning a car is worth it.

Is It Expensive to Drive in the Netherlands?

The answer to the above question is yes and we will tell you why. The Netherlands actively encourages public transport, cycling, and eco-friendly travel.

As a result, driving is heavily regulated and taxed. Costs begin before you even get your license and continue throughout car ownership.

Key cost include:

• Expensive driving lessons

• A challenging and costly Netherlands’ driving test

• High vehicle taxes

• Fuel prices above the EU average

• Mandatory insurance and maintenance costs

One of the largest upfront costs of driving in the Netherlands is passing the official driving exam.

Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Total estimated cost: €2,000 – €3,000+

This makes the Netherlands’ driving test one of the most expensive in Europe.

Why Is the Netherlands’ Driving Test So Difficult?

Many learners fail on their first attempt, increasing overall cost.

Key Reasons:

• Extremely strict examiners

• Focus on hazard perception and defensive driving

• Zero tolerance for unsafe decisions

• High expectations for independent driving

Common failure reasons include:

• Hesitation at junctions

• Not checking blind spots

• Driving too cautiously

• Poor lane discipline

Because of this, multiple test attempts are common, making the Netherlands’ driving test both hard and expensive.

READ ALSO:

• How Much Do Driving Lessons Cost in the Netherlands?
• Is It Hard to Get a Drivers License in the Netherlands?
• How Long Does it Take to Get a Driver’s License in the Netherlands?
• How Much Does a Driver’s License Cost in Netherlands?
• Is the Netherlands’ Driving Test Hard?

Cost of Owning a Car in the Netherlands

Once you pass the Netherlands’ driving test, expenses continue.

1. Car Purchase Costs

• Used car: €3,000 – €10,000

• New car: €20,000+

• Electric cars are encouraged but still costly upfront

2. Road Tax (Motorrijtuigenbelasting)

• €30 – €80 per month depending on vehicle weight and fuel type

• Diesel cars are taxed more heavily

3. Fuel Prices

Fuel in the Netherlands is among the most expensive in Europe.

• Petrol: €1.90 – €2.20 per liter

• Diesel: €1.70 – €2.00 per liter

Car Insurance Costs in the Netherlands

Insurance is mandatory.

New drivers—especially those who recently passed the Netherlands’ driving test—often pay higher premiums due to lack of experience.

Maintenance, Parking & Hidden Costs

Maintenance

• Annual servicing: €300 – €700

• APK (mandatory vehicle inspection): €30 – €70

Parking

• City centers: €4 – €7 per hour

• Monthly permits: €100 – €300+

• Fines are strict and expensive

Is Driving More Expensive Than Public Transport?

In most Dutch cities, public transport and cycling are far cheaper than owning a car.

When Driving Makes Sense:

• Living in rural areas

• Families with children

• Frequent cross-border travel

• Jobs requiring daily car use

When Driving Is Not Worth It:

• Living in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, or The Hague

• Students or short-term residents

• Daily commuters with good train access

Can Foreigners Avoid the Netherlands’ Driving Test?

In some cases, yes.

License Exchange Rules:

• EU/EEA licenses: Usually exchangeable

• Certain non-EU countries (e.g., Japan): Exchange possible

• Most others: Must pass the Netherlands’ driving test

Failing to qualify for an exchange means facing the full cost and difficulty of the Netherlands’ driving test.

Is It Worth Driving in the Netherlands?

Pros:

• Excellent road quality
• Safe and well-regulated system
• Reliable driving standards

Cons:

• Expensive driving lessons
• Tough Netherlands’ driving test
• High taxes and fuel prices

Driving in the Netherlands is high-quality but high-cost. For many residents, the biggest financial hurdle is passing the Netherlands’ driving test, followed by ongoing ownership expenses.

So, is it expensive to drive in the Netherlands? Yes—especially compared to countries with cheaper licensing systems and fuel costs.

Between the strict Netherlands’ driving test, high lesson fees, taxes, and daily operating expenses, driving is a premium option rather than a necessity. However, for those who value flexibility and independence, it can still be worth the investment.