Car Insurance in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide for 2025

Driving in the Netherlands offers convenience and freedom, especially for those living outside the major cities or commuting daily for work. However, owning and driving a car comes with responsibilities — and car insurance is one of the most important legal and financial obligations for drivers in the Netherlands.

This article offers a complete overview of car insurance in the Netherlands, including the types of coverage, legal requirements, costs, how to choose a provider, and special considerations for expats and new residents.

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1. Is Car Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands?

Yes. Car insurance is mandatory by law in the Netherlands. Every vehicle registered in the country must be insured, even if it’s not being driven. The minimum required is WA (Wettelijke Aansprakelijkheid) insurance — a third-party liability insurance that covers damage caused to others.

Driving an uninsured vehicle is illegal and can result in:

• Fines (up to €600 or more)

• Vehicle impoundment

• Legal consequences in case of an accident

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2. Types of Car Insurance in the Netherlands

There are three main levels of car insurance in the Netherlands:

1. WA (Wettelijke Aansprakelijkheid) – Third-Party Liability Insurance

• Mandatory by law

• Covers damage caused to other people or property

• Does not cover damage to your own car

• Best suited for older vehicles (10+ years)

2. WA+ (Beperkt Casco) – Limited Comprehensive Insurance

• Covers everything under WA, plus:

  • Theft

  • Fire damage

  • Storm and hail damage

  • Broken windows

  • Collision with animals

• Ideal for cars between 5–10 years old

3. Allrisk (Volledig Casco) – Fully Comprehensive Insurance

• Covers everything under WA and WA+

• Also covers damage to your own car, even if the accident was your fault

• Includes vandalism, collision, and single-vehicle accidents

• Recommended for new or high-value cars

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3. What’s Typically Covered Under Car Insurance?

Coverage depends on the policy type, but may include:

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4. How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in the Netherlands?

Premiums depend on several factors, including:

• Type of insurance (WA, WA+, Allrisk)

• Driver’s age and experience

• Vehicle make, model, and age

• Annual mileage

• No-claim discount (bonus-malus system)

• Location/region (urban vs rural)

Estimated Monthly Premiums (2025):

• WA: €30–€60/month

• WA+: €50–€90/month

• Allrisk: €80–€150+/month

Drivers under 24 or with little driving history may pay significantly more.

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5. The Bonus-Malus System (No-Claim Discount)

The Dutch car insurance system uses a bonus-malus system to reward safe drivers.

• For each year without a claim, you earn a no-claim discount, which can reduce your premium by up to 80%.

• If you file a claim, your discount may decrease (malus), raising your premium.

Insurers provide a "ladder" of discount levels. New drivers start at a neutral point and move up or down depending on their claim history.

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6. Optional Add-Ons and Coverage Extensions

You can customize your car insurance policy with optional add-ons:

• Legal assistance (rechtsbijstand): Covers legal costs in disputes related to accidents.

• Roadside assistance (pechhulp): Provides towing or on-site repair help.

• Passenger insurance (inzittendenverzekering): Covers injuries to passengers or driver.

• Replacement car (vervangend vervoer): Offers a temporary vehicle if yours is in repair.

• International coverage: For driving in other EU/EEA countries.

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7. Insurance Providers in the Netherlands

Some of the most popular and reputable Dutch car insurance companies include:

• Centraal Beheer

• FBTO

• ANWB

• Univé

• Allianz Direct

• HEMA Verzekeringen

• Ditzo

• ING

• OHRA

Comparison Tools:

To find the best policy and price, use comparison websites like:

• Independer.nl

• Pricewise.nl

• UnitedConsumers.com

These platforms allow you to compare policies, coverage levels, and real-time pricing.

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8. How to Apply for Car Insurance in the Netherlands

Documents You’ll Need:

• BSN (Citizen Service Number)

• Dutch address

• Driver’s license (EU or Dutch license)

• Vehicle registration papers

• Claim history (if applicable)

Steps:

1. Choose an insurance type (WA, WA+, Allrisk)

2. Compare providers and premiums

3. Apply online or by phone

4. Receive confirmation and policy documents via email/post

5. Your car is now legally insured

You must keep proof of insurance in the car at all times.

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9. Car Insurance for Expats and Foreign Drivers

Expats face a few unique challenges, including:

A. Foreign Driver’s License

• EU/EEA licenses are accepted in the Netherlands.

• Non-EU licenses must usually be exchanged within 6–12 months.

• Some insurers may not insure drivers with a foreign license, especially for Allrisk coverage.

B. No-Claim Bonus Transfer

• If you have a claim-free driving history in another country, you may request a no-claim certificate to transfer your bonus.

• Not all insurers accept foreign no-claim records, so check before applying.

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10. Temporary and Short-Term Insurance

The Netherlands does not widely support short-term car insurance. Most insurers require a minimum 12-month policy, with automatic renewal.

If you need temporary coverage (for import, export, or transit):

• Consider import/export brokers

• Ask for transit license plates with insurance

• Limited options are available from specialized providers

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11. Cancelling or Switching Car Insurance

When Can You Cancel?

• At the end of the contract year (usually with 1-month notice)

• Immediately when:

  • You sell the car

  • You move abroad

  • The vehicle is scrapped

  • The premium increases without notice

Switching Insurers:

• Use comparison tools

• New insurer can help you cancel the old policy

• Provide all updated vehicle and driver details

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12. Car Damage and Claims Process

In Case of an Accident:

1. Stop the car and ensure safety

2. Call emergency services if needed (112)

3. Exchange information with the other party

4. Take photos of the damage

5. Fill out a European Accident Statement (Schadeformulier)

6. Report the claim to your insurer ASAP

Most insurers offer online portals or apps to submit claims and track repair status.

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13. Conclusion

Car insurance in the Netherlands is a legal obligation and a key part of responsible car ownership. With a wide range of coverage levels, competitive providers, and reward systems for safe drivers, the Dutch insurance landscape is both fair and flexible — but it does require careful comparison and understanding.

Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a student with a car, choosing the right insurance helps you stay safe, legal, and financially protected on the road.