RDW, or Dienst Wegverkeer, is the national public authority responsible for maintaining the central driving licence registry in the Netherlands. The agency manages secure card production, handles eligible digital renewals, and assesses foreign licence exchanges submitted via Dutch municipalities. Verify official responsibilities to clarify what RDW manages before requesting records, reporting lost documents, or applying online.
The RDW functions as the national administrative core for your driving licence registry, ensuring all entitlements remain accurate and secure. Reviewing this guidance clarifies how you interact with this authority for licence renewals, record requests, and document replacements.
RDW's register, data and document-production remit is nationwide. Municipalities receive most first applications and many exchanges and hand over the completed card, while CBR is responsible for examinations and medical fitness. Some renewal services can be performed directly online only when the applicant and photographer meet the stated eligibility conditions.
The RDW maintains the national driving-licence register and manages the secure production of all official Dutch licence cards. Review these specific registration roles to confirm if your current document renewal or driver record inquiry falls within the authority’s legal remit.
Maintains the national driving-licence register and records current and historical licence entitlements.
Offers online renewal and category-addition services for eligible drivers and supports municipal renewals.
Assesses exchange eligibility after the application is submitted through a municipality.
Lets drivers inspect or request authenticated information from their register record.
Maintains the vehicle and registration system alongside its driver-licensing role.
Understanding which official body handles specific administrative tasks ensures you connect with the correct department for your licence needs. These distinctions help you identify the appropriate authority for your particular enquiry.
A resident's first licence application is normally made at the municipality.
Municipal driving-licence servicesThis section addresses common inquiries regarding the RDW register, online licence renewal eligibility, and the division of administrative responsibilities. These answers help you identify the correct authority for your specific needs, such as managing your driving record or processing a foreign licence exchange.
RDW maintains the national driving licence register and manages production of licence cards. It also provides driver record, loss reporting and eligible online renewal services.
Eligible drivers can use the official online renewal route after meeting the stated identity, photographer, document and participating municipality conditions. Others renew through the municipality.
No. CBR conducts driving examinations and makes medical fitness decisions. RDW records relevant outcomes and supports the licence register and document production process.
The applicant normally submits the exchange through the municipality, and RDW assesses the licence under the applicable rules. CBR may be involved only where a fitness process is required.
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.