This directory outlines the official bodies and authorized organisations managing Dutch transport and driving regulations. Responsibilities are divided, with the CBR administering theory and practical exams while the RDW oversees registrations and vehicle administration. Use these listings to find the correct entity before booking a test, renewing your driving permit, or submitting medical fitness reports.
In the Netherlands, driving and licensing responsibilities are divided between several specialized organizations rather than handled by a single entity. This overview clarifies which official body manages theory tests, licence registers, and local application services to help you identify the right partner for each stage. Knowing the correct authority ensures you follow the appropriate procedure before initiating any exam, renewal, or exchange request.
Bodies that shape driving policy, publish official driver information, or support road-safety education.
Official driver guidance
Organizations involved in learner permits, instructor or school oversight, test administration, and test delivery.
Theory-test administration, Theory-test delivery, Practical-test administration, Practical-test delivery, Test-centre oversight
Authorities responsible for issuing, renewing, replacing, exchanging, restricting, or assessing driving licences.
First licence issuance, Licence registry, Licence renewal, Licence replacement, Licence category additions, Foreign licence exchange, International driving permits, Medical fitness, Licence restrictions, Professional driver qualification
Bodies that manage driver records, penalty information, vehicle registration, or technical inspection.
Driver records, Vehicle registration, Vehicle inspection
Understanding the distinct roles of the CBR, RDW, and municipal services is essential for completing your theory test, managing medical fitness, and issuing your driving licence. Each organization handles specific administrative steps, so identifying the correct authority ensures your application process remains efficient.
Independent public body · National
CBR is the Dutch public body responsible for theory and practical driving examinations and for assessing whether a person is medically fit to drive. It is the main authority learners encounter during qualification, but it does not normally hand over the physical driving licence.
National public authority · National
RDW maintains the Netherlands' central driving-licence register and manages production of Dutch licence cards. It also provides authenticated record services and supports eligible online renewals, loss reporting and the national administration used for foreign-licence exchanges.
Municipal service · Municipal
The municipality is the local application and collection point for a first Dutch driving licence and for many renewals, replacements and foreign-licence exchanges. It verifies the resident's identity and documents, accepts the local fee and requests production of the card through RDW.
Dive into the specific requirements, documents, and steps for obtaining, renewing, or replacing your Dutch driving licence. Our comprehensive guides help you understand each administrative process clearly, ensuring you are well-prepared for every stage of your licence journey in the Netherlands.
Dutch Licence Procedures Guide