How to Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) for Traveling to the Netherlands (and Renting a Car)

by IDL Support

Planning to rent a car in the Netherlands? Great choice—self-drive lets you hop from canal-lined cities to windmill-dotted villages on your own schedule. If you’re visiting from outside the EU/EEA, one document often makes the difference between a smooth rental pickup and a stalled trip: the International Driving Permit (IDP).

This comprehensive guide shows you exactly when you need an IDP for the Netherlands, how to get one step-by-step in major home countries, and the practical rental-car rules (insurance, deposits, speed limits, child seats, phone use, etc.) you should know before you turn the key. It’s written for travelers who plan to rent a car and want to avoid surprises at the counter.

Quick truth: An IDP is a translation of your valid driver’s license—not a standalone license—and you must carry your physical license with it. In the Netherlands, rental companies can require it even if national law doesn’t.

What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An IDP is an official, multi-language translation of your home country driver’s license based on international road traffic conventions (1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna). Think of it as a standardized “translator booklet” that helps rental agents and police read your driving credentials. It does not replace your license; you carry both. Depending on the convention used, validity typically ranges from 12 months (1949 format) up to 3 years for certain 1968-format permits (or until your domestic license expires).

Key takeaways

  • Not a license on its own: Always bring your physical driver’s license. (GOV.UK)

  • Format & validity vary: Many countries issue a 1949 IDP valid for 1 year; the UK also issues a 1968 IDP valid up to 3 years. (GOV.UK)

  • Language coverage: Translates your license into multiple languages to reduce disputes at the rental desk and with authorities.

Do You Need an IDP to Drive (and Rent a Car) in the Netherlands?

The legal baseline

  • EU/EEA licenses: If you hold a valid EU/EEA driver’s license, you can drive in the Netherlands without an IDP.

  • Dutch authorities’ guidance for Dutch residents traveling abroad notes that IDPs are generally for countries outside the EU; within the EU a Dutch license is sufficient. (This helps you understand how authorities treat IDPs in an EU context.)

Practical reality for visitors from outside the EU/EEA

  • Rental company policies: Even if Dutch law doesn’t mandate an IDP in every case, rental agencies may require it, especially when your license isn’t in Roman characters (e.g., Arabic, Cyrillic, Chinese, Japanese), or their insurance terms call for an IDP. If you don’t have it, you risk being refused at pickup. This is common across Europe.

  • U.S. context: U.S. travelers can generally drive with a valid U.S. license, but the U.S. Embassy and travel organizations consistently recommend carrying an IDP in the Netherlands—because rental providers may ask for it and police can more easily verify your credentials.

Bottom line for renters:
If your license is non-EU or not in Roman script, or you simply want zero friction at pickup and with insurance, get an IDP before you go. It’s inexpensive and quick in most countries, and it’s often required by rental desk policy even when not strictly required by national law.

When to Apply (Timing Tips)

  • Apply 2–4 weeks before travel to avoid last-minute stress, especially if you’ll apply by mail. Walk-in processing can be same-day in many places

  • Match your itinerary to the right convention (1949 vs. 1968) if your home country offers multiple types (e.g., the UK).

  • Always carry: IDP + physical driver’s license—both are required together.

Rental Car Requirements & On-Road Rules in the Netherlands (What Travelers Actually Face)

Even seasoned drivers get tripped up by European rental desk and road rules. Here’s what matters most for the Netherlands.

At the rental counter

  • License & IDP: Rental companies may require an IDP for non-EU licenses or non-Roman scripts. Don’t rely on “maybe”—bring one.

  • Credit card & deposit: Expect a hold on a primary driver’s credit card; debit often isn’t accepted for deposits. (Policy varies by company—check your confirmation email.)

  • Insurance choices:

    • CDW/LDW (collision/loss damage waivers) often carry excess/deductible; consider Super CDW/Zero Excess for peace of mind.

    • Third-party liability is typically included by law in the EU, but verify limits.

  • Young driver fees & age limits: Many Dutch rentals require drivers to be 23–25+ for premium categories; under-25s may pay extra. Check your specific supplier.

  • Extra driver: Usually an extra daily fee—unless a promo includes it.

(Why be strict? European travel pros consistently warn that IDPs, insurance terms, and card deposits are common failure points for first-time renters.)

On the road: the rules that surprise visitors

1) Speed limits (default, unless signed otherwise)

  • Urban/built-up areas: 50 km/h

  • Rural roads: 80 km/h

  • Motorways (autosnelwegen): 100 km/h between 06:00–19:00; at night, sections may permit 120–130 km/h (follow posted signs).

2) Phone use while driving

  • Holding a phone or electronic device while driving is prohibited. Hands-free use via a mount or car system is allowed; expect robust enforcement.

3) Child seats

  • Mandatory for children under 1.35 m (front and back seats). Use approved R44 or i-Size (R129) seats appropriate to height/weight. Exemptions are rare and medical.

4) Seat belts

  • Required for all occupants, front and rear.

5) Safety equipment

  • EU guidance emphasizes compliance with local safety rules. Carrying a warning triangle is standard practice across much of Europe and advisable for Dutch road travel. (Your rental car often includes one—ask at pickup.)

6) Winter tires & snow chains

  • Winter tires are not mandatory in the Netherlands; snow chains and studded tires are generally not permitted on public roads. Plan accordingly if you’re crossing into Alpine regions.

7) Parking, cameras, and fines

  • Dutch roads are heavily monitored. Speed and red-light cameras are common; fines and toll/fee notices can be mailed later to the car owner (the rental company), then billed to you.

  • Phone-use fines are steep (hands-free only). Check the latest schedules; enforcement is strict.

Traveler Checklists (Scan-and-Go)

Pre-trip paperwork (renters)

  • Driver’s license (valid through your trip)

  • IDP (especially if non-EU or license not in Roman script) (Rick Steves)

  • Passport (matches rental name)

  • Primary credit card for deposit

  • International insurance proof (if bringing your own coverage)

  • Printed reservation with T&Cs (age, excess, cross-border rules)

  • Two passport photos (if applying for an IDP on the road)

Car pickup

  • Inspect and photo/video all sides, roof, wheels, interior, and fuel level

  • Confirm warning triangle, spare/repair kit, and reflective vests (if provided)

  • Save roadside assistance number in your phone

  • Set up hands-free phone mount before driving

Family travel add-ons

  • Pre-book child seats (supply can be limited in peak seasons)

  • Verify seat type matches your child’s height/weight (R44 / i-Size)

How to Choose the Right IDP for Your Trip (Format & Fit)

  • If your country issues multiple formats:

    • Check the Netherlands and any neighboring countries you’ll drive through (Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg) and pick the format they recognize (1949 and/or 1968).

    • UK travelers: the 1968 IDP can last up to 3 years and is widely accepted across Europe; 1949 lasts 12 months.

  • If your license isn’t in Roman script: An IDP is strongly recommended for quick verification by police/rental staff and may be required by rental policy.

Frequently Asked Questions (Netherlands + Rentals)

Do I need an IDP if I have a U.S. license?
Not always by law, but often required in practice by rental companies—especially for insurance validation or when staff need a translation.

I have an EU license—do I need an IDP?
No, an EU/EEA license is valid in the Netherlands.

Is the IDP a replacement for my license?
No. It’s a translation. You must carry your original license with it.

Can I get an IDP when I arrive in the Netherlands?
Only Dutch residents can apply for an IDP from ANWB—and in person. Visitors must obtain it before travel from their home issuing country

What are the standard speed limits?
50 km/h (urban), 80 km/h (rural), 100 km/h on motorways during the day (06:00–19:00), and 120–130 km/h at night where signed. Always follow posted limits.

Can I hold my phone while driving if I’m just checking maps?
No. Hand-held phone/device use while driving is prohibited. Use a hands-free mount or integrated car system only.

Do I need a child seat for taxis?
Rules apply broadly; children under 1.35 m must use an approved child restraint. If using taxis, pre-book one that provides the correct seat. (Confirm with the taxi company; availability varies.)

Are winter tires mandatory in the Netherlands?
No. And snow chains/studded tires are typically not permitted on public roads in the Netherlands. If you’ll drive into alpine regions, check those countries’ rules.

Smart Rental & Driving Strategies (So Your Trip Stays Fun)

1) Book the right car class

  • Dutch cities have narrow, busy streets. A compact, automatic car reduces stress (manual cars are common but not essential). Travel journalists consistently advise choosing smaller cars in Europe to manage tight streets and parking.

2) Choose the right insurance

  • If your credit card covers CDW, confirm how to decline the rental’s coverage and what documentation is needed. Otherwise, consider Zero-Excess/Super CDW—it often pays for itself in peace of mind.

3) Prep your navigation

  • Download offline maps; mobile data can misbehave in garages or rural zones. A sturdy phone mount keeps you hands-free and legal.

4) Expect cameras & strict enforcement

  • Between speed and red-light cameras and a tough stance on hand-held phone use, the Netherlands is serious about safety. Observe limits—especially the 100 km/h daytime motorway rule—and go hands-free. (

5) Families: bring (or reserve) the right child seat

  • Under 1.35 m, a proper, approved restraint is mandatory. Reserving from the rental company is convenient but check quality/standards; some families prefer to bring their own lightweight travel seat.

How to Obtain an IDP

Applying for an International Driver's Permit (IDP) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

  • Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's Permit. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.

  • Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://internationalpermit.com/pages/apply-for-the-international-driving-permit

  • Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDL application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.

  • Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.

  • Receive IDP: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's License.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

BUY NOW!

Cost of an International Driver's License

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's License are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDP, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://www.internationalpermit.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-drivers-document

Conclusion

If you’re traveling to the Netherlands to rent a car, the safest play is to obtain an IDP before you go—especially if your license is non-EU or not in Roman characters. It’s inexpensive, quick, and often expected by rental companies. Combine that with a firm handle on Dutch driving norms (daytime motorway speed limits, hands-free phone rules, child-seat requirements), and your trip will be all tulips, stroopwafels, and effortless day trips.

Next steps (5-minute plan):

  1. Apply for your IDP https://internationalpermit.com/

  2. Confirm rental policy (IDP required? deposit amount? insurance excess?).

  3. Pack a phone mount, check that the car has a warning triangle, and review speed limits.

  4. If traveling with kids, pre-book compliant child seats.

Have a great drive!

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