Netherlands

Fines for speeding in Netherlands

  • Up to 10 km/h over the limit: €10 fine.
  • 11–15 km/h over the limit: €20 fine.
  • 16–20 km/h over the limit: €30 fine.
  • 21–25 km/h over the limit: €40 fine.
  • 26–30 km/h over the limit: €50 fine.
  • 31–35 km/h over the limit: €60 fine.
  • 36–40 km/h over the limit: €70 fine.
  • 41–45 km/h over the limit: €80 fine.
  • 46–50 km/h over the limit: €90 fine.
  • 51–55 km/h over the limit: €100 fine.
  • 56–60 km/h over the limit: €150 fine.
  • 61–65 km/h over the limit: €200 fine.
  • 66–70 km/h over the limit: €250 fine.
  • 71–75 km/h over the limit: €300 fine.
  • 76–80 km/h over the limit: €350 fine.
  • 81–85 km/h over the limit: €400 fine.
  • 86–90 km/h over the limit: €450 fine.
  • 91–95 km/h over the limit: €500 fine.
  • 96–100 km/h over the limit: €550 fine.
  • Over 100 km/h over the limit: €600 fine.

Note: Fines for exceeding the speed limit by more than 30 km/h can be higher, and the driver may face additional penalties, such as license suspension or imprisonment

Do I need to purchase Vignette?

In the Netherlands, there is no vignette system and no tolls on the majority of roads, including highways. However, there are a few exceptions and things to consider when driving. Here’s what you need to know:


1. Who Needs a Vignette?

  • No vignette required for passenger vehicles in the Netherlands.
  • The country does not have a national vignette system or tolls for standard road use.

2. Where Are Tolls Needed?

  • No tolls for roads: The Netherlands does not charge tolls on highways or major roads for regular passenger vehicles.
  • Toll Bridges and Tunnels: There are a few tolls in the Netherlands, but they are generally limited to specific bridges and tunnels. For example:
    • Kiltunnel (near Rotterdam)
    • Westerschelde Tunnel (linking Zeeland to the mainland)
    These tolls range from about €2 to €5 for passenger cars, depending on the bridge or tunnel.

3. Road Use Fees

  • No general tolls or vignettes: You can drive freely across the Netherlands without having to pay tolls on highways or most roads. The exceptions are the specific bridges and tunnels mentioned above.
  • Environmental Zones: Some cities, like Amsterdam, may have low-emission zones (LEZs) where older, more polluting vehicles may face restrictions or fines. However, the LEZs are not widespread, and they do not require a separate fee, but vehicles must meet specific emission standards.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Non-Payment of Toll Fees: If you fail to pay the toll for bridges or tunnels, you could face fines ranging from €50 to €100, depending on the toll section.
  • Traffic Violations: Fines are also imposed for violations such as speeding, illegal parking, and not using seat belts.

5. Additional Information

  • Public Transport: The Netherlands has an excellent public transport network, including trains, trams, and buses, which can be convenient alternatives to driving, especially in busy cities.
  • Bike-Friendly Country: The Netherlands is known for being one of the most bike-friendly countries in the world, and many people use bicycles for short trips in cities.

6. Tips for Travelers

  • Watch for Toll Bridges: While there are few tolls, make sure to be aware of the specific bridges and tunnels that charge a fee, especially if you’re traveling in and out of cities or along the coast.
  • Avoiding Traffic: If you’re driving in large cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam, consider using public transport, as traffic and parking can be challenging and expensive.
  • Driving in Environmental Zones: If your vehicle is older or has high emissions, check if you’ll be affected by low-emission zones in cities.