Cross-border route
Germany Netherlands
Germany 
NetherlandsDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Germany into Netherlands, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Netherlands expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The A3/A12 motorway crosses near Arnhem toward the Ruhr region.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromGermany
ToNetherlands
IDP in NetherlandsRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in NetherlandsEUR
Germany → Netherlands
Crossing the border
The A3/A12 motorway crosses near Arnhem toward the Ruhr region.
Driving rules in Netherlands
- Watch for cyclists — they have extensive right of way.
- Trams have priority.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; 0.02% for novice drivers.
- Low-emission zones in major cities.
What to see when you arrive in Netherlands
- the canals of Amsterdam
- the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum
- the Keukenhof tulip gardens
- the windmills of Kinderdijk
- the historic centre of Delft
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Germany to Netherlands?
Yes — Netherlands requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Netherlands recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Germany and Netherlands?
No. Both Germany and Netherlands drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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