Status holders (residence permit)
Whether you can exchange depends only on the country that issued your licence, not on your residence status. A licence from, for example, Syria, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan or Eritrea cannot be exchanged. You need to pass the Dutch theory and practical exams.
Asylum seekers with a W-document
With a W-document you may already take the CBR theory and practical exams. However, the municipality can only issue the licence once you have a residence permit. A municipality sometimes issues a licence by mistake; such a licence is later declared invalid.
Start early
A passed practical exam remains valid for three years. If you receive your residence permit within that period, you can apply for your licence straight away. This can save you months.
Will the rules change?
In August 2026 the Dutch minister said there was no reason to change the rules. A new EU driving licence directive may in the future lead to more uniform rules for non-EU licences across Europe, but when and how is still unclear.
How we help
- A clear plan in your language: what you can do now and what has to wait.
- Booking the theory exam with an official interpreter.
- Finding a driving school with an instructor who speaks your language.