How Much Does a Dutch Driver’s License Really Cost for Expats?

Getting your driving license in the Netherlands can be surprisingly expensive—especially for internationals and expats navigating a new system. From mandatory health checks to exam fees and lessons, the costs can quickly add up.

This guide breaks down the full list of required expenses and shows you what it might cost depending on how smoothly your journey goes.

Core Costs Every Expat Pays

Regardless of your driving skill or experience, these are the standard costs you'll encounter in the Netherlands:

• Theory exam: €54
• Study materials / practice tests: €11–€26
• Health declaration (Gezondheidsverklaring): €44.50
• Practical driving exam: ~€150–€200
• License issuance at municipality: €52
• Passport photo (if needed): Up to €15

💡 Note: Driving lessons are usually the biggest expense and vary widely depending on the school and number of lessons needed.

• Lesson cost (average): €60 per lesson
• Total lessons needed: Usually 20–30, depending on experience

Now let’s explore what this could look like in three different scenarios.

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Scenario 1: Everything Goes Super Smooth ✨

You’re confident, a quick learner, and maybe you’ve already driven in another country. You pass both exams on the first try and only need 20 lessons.

Cost Breakdown

• Theory Exam + Materials: €54 + €11 = €65
• Gezondheidsverklaring: €44.50
• 20 Lessons: 20 × €60 = €1,200
• Practical Exam: €175 (average)
• License Issuance + Photo: €52 + €10 = €62

✅ Total Estimated Cost: €1,546.50

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Scenario 2: The Average Route 🚗

Like most people, you need a few months of lessons and take both exams once. You fall somewhere in the middle with 25 lessons.

Cost Breakdown

• Theory Exam + Materials: €54 + €20 = €74
• Gezondheidsverklaring: €44.50
• 25 Lessons: 25 × €60 = €1,500
• Practical Exam: €175
• License Issuance + Photo: €52 + €15 = €67

✅ Total Estimated Cost: €1,860.50

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Scenario 3: The Bumpy Ride 🛞

Maybe nerves get the better of you, or you need more time to build confidence. You retake one exam and need 30 lessons.

Cost Breakdown

• Theory Exam (2 tries) + Materials: 2 × €54 + €25 = €133
• Gezondheidsverklaring: €44.50
• 30 Lessons: 30 × €60 = €1,800
• Practical Exam (2 tries): 2 × €175 = €350
• License Issuance + Photo: €52 + €15 = €67

✅ Total Estimated Cost: €2,394.50

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Final Thoughts

Getting your Dutch driver’s license as an expat can cost anywhere from €1,500 to nearly €2,400, depending on how many lessons you need and how many times you take the exams.

While it might feel like a steep investment, it's a valuable skill that opens up a lot of freedom—especially if you’re planning to stay in the Netherlands long-term.

Tip: Look for driving schools that offer packages (10- or 20-lesson deals) or free intake lessons to keep costs manageable.

Whether you're cruising through or taking your time, the key is preparation, patience, and practice.

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