Regulations, fees and prohibitions for trucks in the Netherlands

6 June 2024

When entering the Netherlands, have the following with you:

• A valid driver’s licence (Polish or international)
• National registration card with technical inspection of the vehicle
• Tachograph or individual control book
• Liability and accident insurance
• Identity document (identity card - valid for a minimum of 6 months or passport - valid for a minimum of 3 months)
• Driver’s card
• ADR certificate if your are transporting hazardous materials)
• Accessories: warning triangle, set of spare bulbs and fuses are a must, it is also a good idea to bring a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, reflective waistcoat and spare wheel.
• An NFZ-EKUZ card - this allows you to use basic medical services in the Netherlands

If you are a passenger on a truck, only bring your identity document.

What is traffic like in the Netherlands?

Here are some traffic-related highlights:

1. Traffic in the Netherlands drives on the right-hand side of the road.
2. The speed limit in most urban areas is either 30 km/h or 50 km/h, outside built-up areas it’s 80 km/h. Read our other blog for a detailed outline for speed limits on motorways or highways: https://www.247drive.com/blog/56/current-speed-limits-for-trucks-in-the-netherlands 
3. Wearing seat belts while driving is mandatory for both the driver and passenger of the truck.
4. Using the phone while driving is prohibited. Drivers are free to talk using hands-free kits or wireless headphones.
5. During the day, the lights must only be switched on in case of bad weather conditions.
6. The police may suspend your driving licence if your blood alcohol level is over 1.3 per mille (experienced driver) and over 0.8 per mille (novice driver).
7. Importantly - traffic in the Netherlands is carefully monitored by cameras and the police. You will find more information on this below. 

Control measures in the Netherlands

Traffic on Dutch roads is extremely well monitored thanks to:

• Stationary speed cameras - Speed cameras are placed in high traffic areas and in places where accidents frequently occur.
• Mobile speed cameras - Dutch police use mobile speed cameras, which can be placed in a variety of locations, often at points where there is a high risk of accidents. The devices are regularly moved around, making it difficult to predict their location.
• Frequent road patrols - Police officers regularly patrol roads, motorways and city streets. Their tasks include routine checks of speed, sobriety and vehicle condition.
• Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) - Cameras identify vehicles that violate regulations, such as driving without valid insurance, technical inspection or unpaid road tax. 
• Sectional speed measurement - Similar to Poland, sectional speed measurement systems can be found on certain sections of Dutch roads - if the average speed exceeds the limit, the driver will receive a fine. 
• Additional measures - Cameras at intersections monitor red light running and other traffic offences. 
• Customs checks - These include checks on luggage, the vehicle, documents and items being transported. Customs (Douane) and the Transport Border Inspection (IGT) are authorised to carry out customs checks in the Netherlands.

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Charges for heavy goods vehicles

Fuel prices

The Netherlands infamously claims some of the highest fuel prices in Europe. Exact prices, however, depend on the price list of the chosen station. However, here is an indication of how much fuel costs on average n the Netherlands*.

1. Approximately € 1,85 per litre for diesel.
2. Approximately € 1,36 per kg for LNG.
3. Approximately € 1,46 per kg for CNG.

*Rates current as of May 2024.

Motorway toll

In general, the use of roads and motorways in the Netherlands is free of charge, but there is a small charge for driving through the Dordtse Kil tunnel in the Biesbosch region. The amount of toll on motorways in the Netherlands depends on the vehicle class, number of axles, emission class and the length of the route travelled. Find out more: https://www.anwb.nl/vakantie/nederland/reisvoorbereiding/tol 

A toll system, known as Eurovignette, has been introduced for trucks over 12 tonnes (Heavy Goods Vehicles - HVG). Drivers must pay a charge to use main roads and motorways. More information on Eurovignette can be found here: https://www.eurovignettes.eu/portal/booking/booking

Truck traffic bans in the Netherlands

Truck traffic bans specify the times when trucks are allowed on the road, as well as the roads where traffic is restricted. We recommend checking the current regulations before travelling to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Vehicles carrying hazardous materials must be properly marked in accordance with ADR regulations. Failure to display proper signage can result in a driving ban and a hefty fine.

Low emission zones

Low emission zones restrict the passage of high emitting vehicles. 

In the Netherlands you will encounter low emission zones (LEZ), or clean transport zones (CTS). They are mainly located in larger cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam or Utrecht. To enter a low-emission zone, you need to have your vehicle marked with a sticker or registration.

What traffic fines are applicable in the Netherlands

We recently covered the topic of traffic fines in this article. Find out more: https://www.247drive.com/blog/54/current-speed-limits-for-trucks-on-the-road 

Driving culture

A high level of road education and systematic roadside inspections contribute to Dutch drivers being exceptionally mindful of road safety, so that they enjoy a relatively low accident rate.

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