Japan vs Netherlands: Driving Rules Compared

Japan’s motorways hold steady at 100 km/h around the clock, but the Netherlands runs a day-night split on the same roads: 100 km/h from six in the morning to seven at night, rising to 120-130 km/h once darkness falls. Add the driving side, left in Japan, right in the Netherlands, and the two countries ask for very different habits. Urban limits differ less sharply, 40 km/h against 50 km/h.

Switching between Japan (left-hand traffic) and the Netherlands (right-hand traffic) requires significant adjustment. Pay special attention to turning, roundabouts, and overtaking — these are the situations where drivers most commonly make errors after switching sides.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits are one of the first things drivers notice when crossing borders. Japan and the Netherlands take notably different approaches.

Japan sets its speed limits at 40 km/h in cities and towns, 60 km/h on country roads, and 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h) on motorways.

Drivers in Netherlands should observe limits of 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h (100 km/h on motorways during daytime (6am-7pm); 120-130 km/h at night. Since 2025, 130 km/h 24/7 on selected sections (A6, A7, A37 — 117 km total)) on motorway stretches.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Drivers transitioning between Japan and the Netherlands should pay close attention to posted signs, as assumptions based on one country’s rules can lead to speeding tickets in the other. Speed cameras are common in both countries, and enforcement can be strict.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Japan and the Netherlands have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Japan drives on the left; Netherlands drives on the right. This is a major difference that requires careful adjustment.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 18 in Japan and 17 in the Netherlands.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 18,000 (approx. EUR 115) + 3 points. In the Netherlands, the penalty is EUR 380. Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Japan and the Netherlands. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is Warning / 1 point (no fine for first offence) in Japan and EUR 170 in the Netherlands.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Japan, expect JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 2 points. In the Netherlands, the penalty is EUR 280.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Drink-driving laws represent one of the areas where countries diverge most significantly.

Japan sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.03%.

Netherlands has a BAC limit of 0.05%.

The lower limit in Japan means that even a small amount of alcohol could put you over the legal limit. Adjust your behaviour accordingly.

Penalties for exceeding the BAC limit in both Japan and the Netherlands can include heavy fines, licence suspension, and even imprisonment. Novice drivers face even stricter thresholds in many countries. The safest policy is to not drink at all when you plan to drive.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Vehicle equipment requirements are an often-overlooked aspect of driving abroad. Japan and the Netherlands each have their own list of mandatory items.

Winter Tyres

• Japan: Winter tyres are situational. Period: Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter. Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Netherlands: Winter tyres are not mandatory. Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

Rental vehicles usually come equipped for the country of hire. If you intend to drive in both Japan and the Netherlands, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Japan and the Netherlands.

In Japan, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 1 point. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Netherlands, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 39-66 (depending on road type). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

Before driving in {a} or {b}, ensure you have the correct documentation. Requirements for international visitors vary.

Japan: An IDP is required. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence IDP required (1949 Geneva Convention only). US, UK and many EU licences need specific IDP. Drives on the left.

Netherlands: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 6 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors can drive for up to 185 days with IDP.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency while driving, it is essential to know the local numbers:

Save these numbers in your phone before travelling. In an emergency, quick access to the correct number is crucial.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Before hitting the road in Japan or Netherlands, consider these practical driving tips:

1. Understand toll systems. Research whether you need a vignette, transponder, or cash for tolls in each country.

2. Plan fuel stops. Fuel prices and station availability can vary significantly. In some regions, stations may close at night or on Sundays.

3. Check insurance coverage. Verify that your motor insurance or rental agreement covers driving in both countries. A Green Card may be required for cross-border travel.

4. Adjust to speed limits immediately. When crossing the border, speed limits change. Look for signs and adjust your driving accordingly. Do not rely on habits from the other country.

5. Carry the right documents. Ensure you have your driving licence, IDP (if needed), vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Some countries require you to carry these at all times.

6. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

7. Watch for different road signs. While European countries share many sign conventions, there are country-specific signs you should recognise. Review a local driving guide before your trip.

8. Respect local driving culture. Overtaking norms, horn usage, and right-of-way conventions differ. Observe local drivers and adapt accordingly.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Which country is easier to drive in depends on your experience level, where you are from, and what conditions you are used to.

Tourist reviews give Japan a driving ease score of 3.0/5 (Moderate). Left-hand driving, expensive tolls, excellent roads, kanji signage

Netherlands is rated 2.0/5 (Easy) by tourists. Excellent infrastructure, heavy cyclist traffic, well-marked

The switch between left-hand traffic in Japan and right-hand traffic in the Netherlands is the single biggest adjustment drivers will face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in the Netherlands with a Japan driving licence?

Rules vary by nationality. Check the specific licence requirements for each country, and consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Japan compared to the Netherlands?

The motorway speed limit in Japan is 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h), while in the Netherlands it is 100 km/h (100 km/h on motorways during daytime (6am-7pm); 120-130 km/h at night. Since 2025, 130 km/h 24/7 on selected sections (A6, A7, A37 — 117 km total)). Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Japan or Netherlands?

In Japan, winter tyres are situational (Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter). In the Netherlands, they are not mandatory (no specific period). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Japan has a stricter BAC limit (0.03%) compared to the Netherlands (0.05%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Japan and the Netherlands?

Japan drives on the left side and the Netherlands drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Japan in the Netherlands?

International motor insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. Contact your insurer before travelling to confirm coverage in both Japan and the Netherlands. You may need to purchase additional local insurance.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Japan or Netherlands?

In Japan, the general emergency number is 110 (police: 110, ambulance: 119). In the Netherlands, call 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 112). Save both numbers in your phone before you travel.