Most things here are administratively 'exhausting'. This is also true for getting a driver's license. We are here on what is called a '30 percent' ruling, which actually makes some things much easier. For example, the 30 percent ruling does not require that a driving test be taken prior to the issuance of a Netherland's license. However, the process is still rather 'involved' and one that is not very clear to new expats who are unfamiliar with the various administrative processes and governing authorities.
First, I had to obtain an approval letter from the CBR (who I still don't know who they are). This required a small fee paid to the local municipality office for a form that was completed and mailed, with other documentation, to the CBR office.
I received a letter back from the CBR stating that my documentation was received and 'accepted'. This letter and other documentation, including a recent passport photo, were then sent to the RDW office. Two weeks later, I had received a letter stating that my U.S. license qualified me for additional classifications other than the standard classes (i.e. car, moped and towing a small trailer). In other words, my U.S. license allowed me to drive small commercial trucks and The Netherland's needed to know if I wanted to be authorized for this additional classification. This required a submittal of either a completed health form, signed by both my doctor and an ophthalmologist, or a waiver, indicating my acknowledgment of forgoing the additional classification. With the advice of a municipality office clerk, I went ahead and submitted the health form to obtain the additional classification.
Last week I received another letter from the CBR acknowledging receipt of my health form and correspondence stating that I was 'accepted' for the additional classification. A few days later I received a letter from the RDW stating that I was 'approved' and that I could pick up my new driver's license at the local municipality office. This morning I did just that and so now I am official!
Sometime this week I will go out driving with a professional driving instructor who I will hire to simply 'hold my hand' while I take on the Netherland's roads for the very first time. Either this week or next, we expect to purchase our very first Netherland's car.
Stay tuned...
In the meantime, I am repeatedly watching the video below to help me learn the European road signs.... Let the journey begin!