Driving at 17 in the Netherlands: how 2toDrive works
In the Netherlands you can pass the practical driving exam at 17. Until your 18th birthday you then drive with a coach next to you: that is 2toDrive. You need a companion pass (begeleiderspas) from the RDW with the names of 1 to 5 coaches on it. It costs €27.00, and you may only drive in the Netherlands.
The steps before you turn 18
- Driving lessons from 16.5.
- The theory exam from 16, in Dutch or English: how the theory exam works.
- The health declaration on Mijn CBR.
- The practical exam from 17.
- Your coaches register, then you apply for the companion pass at the RDW.
- You apply for your licence at your municipality. At 17 that is only possible once you have applied for the companion pass.
Who can be your coach
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Age | 27 or over; 23 or over with a WRM instructor card |
| Licence | A Dutch, EU or EFTA car licence for at least 5 years (1 year with a WRM card) |
| Address | Registered in the Netherlands (BRP) |
| Past 4 years | No criminal traffic convictions, no alcohol, drug or behaviour courses, no licence invalidation |
| While coaching | Not under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication, and carrying a valid licence |
How you get the companion pass
Your coaches register first with the RDW, logging in with their own DigiD, and need your citizen service number (BSN) for that. The RDW checks them and sends each coach a letter within 5 working days. Once all coaches are approved, you apply for the pass with your DigiD and pay €27.00. If you apply on a weekday before 21:00, the RDW sends the pass within 4 working days; otherwise within 5. You can apply for your licence as soon as you have applied for the pass, without waiting for it to arrive. Changing coaches means applying for a new pass.
Rules while you drive
- Always carry your licence and your companion pass, with one of your coaches next to you.
- Only in the Netherlands, not abroad.
- From your 18th birthday you drive on your own and no longer need the pass.
Starting at 17 does not change your novice period: your first licence is a novice licence for 5 years, whatever your age, with a 0.2 per mille alcohol limit. More: alcohol limit for drivers in the Netherlands.
Frequently asked questions
Can you drive at 17 in the Netherlands?
Yes, with 2toDrive. You can pass the practical exam at 17 and then drive with a coach next to you until your 18th birthday.
Who can be a 2toDrive coach?
Someone aged 27 or over (23 with a WRM instructor card) who has held a Dutch, EU or EFTA car licence for at least 5 years, is registered in the Netherlands, and has had no traffic convictions, alcohol, drug or behaviour courses or licence invalidation in the past 4 years.
How much does the companion pass cost?
€27.00, however many coaches are on it. You can have 1 to 5 coaches.
Can I drive abroad with 2toDrive?
No. Until you turn 18 you may only drive in the Netherlands.
Is my novice period longer if I start at 17?
No. Your first licence is a novice licence for 5 years, whatever your age when you get it.
Sources, checked on 8 October 2026:
Written by Nawfal Serraji, traffic law specialist and founder of HaalTheorie.