How to Drive in Holland

By eHow Travel Editor

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When visiting Holland, the best way to sightsee is by car. Driving will allow you to explore and get lost in the beauty of the country; but if it is your first time, you might want to know a few things first.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Maps of Holland
Dutch phrase book
Car
International Driver's Permit
Gas money
Insurance policy
Driver's license

Step1

Get an International Driver's Permit (IDP) at any American Automobile Association (AAA) location. You must have an IDP to drive in Holland, and to get your permit you must be at least 18 and have two 2-by-2-inch photos, your driver's license, the fee and your AAA application.

Step2

Rent a car. Ask your travel agent to help you find a good deal, or you can book your own car at a rental car company Web site.

Step3

Know what kind of gas your car takes. Most rental cars either take unleaded (loodvrije benzine), diesel or LPG. If you fill up at a full-service station, be sure that your attendant knows what kind of gas to use.

Step4

Know the speed limits. On motorways the speed limit is 120 kph. It is 90 kph on major roads outside of town and 50 kph inside town. Always observe posted speed limits.

Step5

Get familiar with traffic signs and Dutch driving phrases. "Afrit" means exit, and "oprit" means entrance. "Parkeerplaats" translates to parking. Use your Dutch translation book to figure out other road signs.

Step6

Equip your car with a visibility vest as required by law. It is also recommended that you carry a warning triangle, fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit.

Tips & Warnings

Always carry a road map of Holland with you.
Speed cameras and unmarked vehicles are often used to monitor speeding.
Be sure to ask your insurance agent if you need to purchase special insurance from the rental car agency.
Parking is available in the city in areas marked with a blue line. You will need a cardboard disc that can be purchased from a tobacco shop or police station to park in these areas.
When parking, pay special attention to signs labeled 'I' and 'II' separated by a red diagonal stripe. These mean no parking on the left on odd dates, and no parking on the right on even dates.
Seat belts must be worn by everyone in the car.
Children under 12 may not ride in the front seat unless they use a proper child-restraint system.
You must be at least 18 to drive in Holland.
Driving while talking on your cell phone is illegal unless you are using a hands-free kit.