Driver’s License Categories

1. AM License – Mopeds, Scooters, and Light Motor Vehicles

The AM category allows you to drive the following:

• Mopeds and Scooters: Two- or three-wheeled mopeds with a maximum design speed of 45 km/h.

• Microcars (Brommobielen): Small motorized vehicles with a similar speed limit of 45 km/h.

Requirements:

• Minimum age: 16 years old.

• Theory exam is mandatory unless the no-exam option is chosen.

• Practical exam may not always be required but can vary depending on the specific moped or scooter.

Professional Note: This category is ideal for young drivers and those living in urban areas where light motorized vehicles are common.

2. A License – Motorcycles

The A category is subdivided into three classes depending on the engine power:

• A1: Light motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 125cc and a power output not exceeding 11kW.

  • Minimum age: 18 years old.

• A2: Medium motorcycles with a power output not exceeding 35kW.

  • Minimum age: 20 years old.

• A (Unrestricted): Motorcycles with no power or engine restrictions.

  • Minimum age: 24 years old (or 22 if you’ve held an A2 license for at least two years).

Requirements:

• Theory exam and practical driving test.

• Graduated system: You must progress through A1 → A2 → A for unrestricted access unless you qualify for direct access.

Professional Note: These licenses cater to motorcycle enthusiasts who wish to gradually advance to larger and more powerful motorcycles.

3. B License – Passenger Cars

The B category is the most common license, permitting the operation of:

• Passenger Cars: Vehicles with a maximum authorized mass (MAM) of 3,500 kg and seating for up to 8 passengers (excluding the driver).

• Trailers (up to 750 kg): You can tow a small trailer, provided the total weight of the car and trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg.

Requirements:

• Minimum age: 18 years old (17 for BF17 – accompanied driving).

• Theory exam and practical driving test.

Professional Note: The B license is the standard license for personal vehicles and is required for most daily driving needs.

4. BE License – Cars with Heavier Trailers

The BE category is for drivers towing heavier trailers:

• Permits towing of trailers over 750 kg, provided the combined weight of the car and trailer does not exceed 7,000 kg.

Requirements:

• Valid B license.

• Additional practical driving test for towing.

Professional Note: This license is perfect for drivers who need to tow caravans, horse trailers, or other heavy equipment.

5. C1 and C Licenses – Light and Heavy Trucks

• C1 License (Light Trucks):

  • For trucks with a MAM between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg.

  • Ideal for drivers operating small delivery trucks, camper vans, or light commercial vehicles.

  • Minimum age: 18 years old.

• C License (Heavy Trucks):

  • For trucks with a MAM exceeding 7,500 kg.

  • Commonly required for drivers of large goods vehicles and heavy-duty transport.

  • Minimum age: 21 years old.

Requirements:

• Medical fitness test required for both C1 and C.

• Theory exam and practical driving test are mandatory.

Professional Note: These licenses are essential for individuals in the logistics, transport, or delivery industries.

6. CE License – Trucks with Trailers

The CE license allows you to drive heavy trucks combined with trailers or semi-trailers exceeding 750 kg.

Requirements:

• Valid C license.

• Additional practical driving test.

Professional Note: This license is crucial for professional truck drivers engaged in large-scale cargo transport.

7. D1 and D Licenses – Light and Heavy Buses

• D1 License (Light Buses):

  • Permits operation of buses with seating for 8-16 passengers and a maximum length of 8 meters.

  • Minimum age: 21 years old.

• D License (Heavy Buses):

  • For buses with seating for more than 16 passengers.

  • Minimum age: 24 years old.

Requirements:

• Medical fitness test.

• Theory and practical exams.

Professional Note: These licenses are typically required for bus drivers, school transport services, and tour operators.

8. DE License – Buses with Trailers

The DE license allows you to operate buses combined with trailers exceeding 750 kg.

Requirements:

• Valid D license.

• Additional practical driving test.

Professional Note: Essential for bus operators who require additional cargo space for luggage or equipment.

9. T License – Agricultural Vehicles

The T license permits you to operate

• Tractors and Agricultural Vehicles: Vehicles used for farming or forestry purposes on public roads.

Requirements:

• Minimum age: 16 years old.

• Theory exam and practical test are mandatory unless the no-exam option is selected.

Professional Note: This category is essential for individuals working in agriculture or related industries.

Why You Need the Right License Category

Having the appropriate driver’s license category ensures:

1. Compliance with Dutch Laws: Each category is carefully regulated by the RDW to ensure safe and legal driving.

2. Insurance Coverage: Driving without the correct license could invalidate your insurance.

3. Safety and Responsibility: Operating vehicles you are trained for minimizes the risk of accidents.

How We Can Help

Our team provides tailored solutions to help you obtain any of the above license categories quickly, legally, and efficiently. Whether you need assistance with standard procedures, bypassing exams, or renewing a license, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to start your journey toward the road!