Transportation

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in the Netherlands, you may encounter traffic conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States.

In the Netherlands, travel in, around, and between cities is possible via a highly developed national public transportation system, an extensive system of bike paths, and by automobile and motorcycle on a modern highway system. Rail is often a convenient alternative to driving, particularly in the areas around Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, where road congestion is frequent. Rail network information is available online. It is relatively safe to travel by road from city to city, compared to some other European countries.

A valid driver’s license issued by a Department of Motor Vehicles in the United States is valid for use in the Netherlands for up to 180 days while in tourist or visitor status. You must use seat belts and child seats. Driving is on the right side of the road, as in the United States. Speed limits are strictly enforced via radar. Traffic cameras are common throughout the Netherlands and you could receive a ticket for traveling even 2-5 km/h over the limit. Different limits may apply to certain hours of the day, as posted. The Dutch Government has reduced speed limits on certain roads near cities in an effort to reduce air pollution. Speed limit signs are electronic, and therefore authorities can change the speed limit depending on traffic conditions. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to drivers and bicyclists coming from the right at intersections or traffic circles unless otherwise posted. The maximum allowable blood-alcohol content in the Netherlands is 0.05 percent. Use of cellular telephones while driving without the use of a hands-free device is prohibited, and is punishable by severe fines.

Lanes in the center of many urban two-way streets are reserved for buses, trams, and taxis. In cities, pedestrians should be mindful of trams and buses, which often cross or share bicycle and pedestrian paths. Serious--and sometimes fatal--accidents involving pedestrians or bicyclists colliding with trams and buses occur each year. Motorists should be especially mindful that bicyclists have the right-of-way; motorists must yield to bicyclists. Pedestrians should not walk along bicycle paths, which are often next to the sidewalk and usually designated by red pavement.

Bicyclists and pedestrians should be particularly cautious during the winter months, when paths, roads, and especially bridges can be icy and extremely slippery.

Taxi service in the Netherlands is safe but expensive. Trams and buses are both convenient and economical, but are often frequented by pickpockets.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the website of the Dutch Board of Tourism and Conventions for additional information.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Netherland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Netherland’s air carrier