Dutch Speed Limits Explained (Cars, Motorways, Trailers)

Speed limits in the Netherlands are stricter — and more time-dependent — than in many other European countries. Here are the rules you need for the CBR theory exam.

Default limits for passenger cars

• Inside built-up area (binnen de bebouwde kom): 50 km/h, often 30 km/h on residential streets.
• Outside built-up area (buiten de bebouwde kom): 80 km/h.
• Expressway (autoweg): 100 km/h.
• Motorway (autosnelweg): 100 km/h between 06:00–19:00, 130 km/h between 19:00–06:00 unless signed lower.

Why the 100 km/h daytime limit?

Since 2020 the Netherlands has applied a 100 km/h daytime cap on motorways to reduce nitrogen emissions. The sign with a 130 km/h limit + 'van 19 tot 6' is the most-quoted CBR exam scenario.

Cars with a trailer or caravan

• Inside built-up area: 50 km/h.
• Outside built-up area: 80 km/h.
• Motorway and expressway: 90 km/h (regardless of the time-based 100/130 sign).

How limits are signed

A red-bordered white circle with a number means the maximum allowed speed. A blue circle with a white number means the minimum allowed speed (only seen on motorways). End-of-limit signs are the same number with a diagonal grey bar — after that, the default for that road type applies again.

Penalties

Speeding fines rise with the measured excess speed and can lead to more serious legal consequences at higher speeds. Current amounts and procedures can change, so use official Dutch government information rather than memorising a fine table for theory preparation.