Vehicle requirements: weight, windows, plate and towing

What do you legally need to carry in your car in the Netherlands?

Nothing. In the Netherlands you do not have to carry any required items in your car. A warning triangle, safety vest, first-aid kit or fire extinguisher is therefore not mandatory in an ordinary passenger car.

Abroad this can be different. Many countries require a warning triangle or a vest, for example. Going on a trip? Check first what is required in that country. Dutch government: what must I carry in my car?

Is a warning triangle mandatory in the Netherlands?

No, you do not have to carry a warning triangle. It is useful, though. If you break down where you hinder others or cause danger, you must warn other traffic. You do that with your hazard lights or with a warning triangle. Using both is also fine.

Where to place the triangle and how to get out safely is explained under breaking down.

Is a fire extinguisher mandatory in the car?

No, a fire extinguisher is not mandatory in an ordinary passenger car. You may carry one. If you do, fix it firmly, so it cannot fly through the car when you brake hard.

Which vehicle requirements are on the CBR exam?

The CBR exam looks at requirements for the car itself. Your car must not be too heavy, you must be able to see well, the number plate must be readable and important parts must work. Towing another car is part of this too.

How heavy may your car be?

On a B licence the car may have a maximum authorised mass of up to 3500 kg. That is what the car may weigh according to its registration: the empty car plus its maximum load. You find it on the registration document.

Passengers, luggage and things on the roof all count. So never load more than your car is allowed to carry. On a B licence you may carry at most eight passengers besides yourself. More on weight and your licence under driving licence B. Towing a trailer is covered under licence and trailer.

Good visibility: windows, mirrors and doors

Before you drive off, clean all windows, mirrors and lights and clear them of snow and ice. A small peephole in the windscreen is not enough. Also check the wipers and washers.

The windscreen and the side windows next to the driver must let through at least 55% of the light. Slightly tinted glass is fine, film that is too dark is not. Dutch government: rules for window film.

Also check that all doors and the tailgate are properly closed. A door that is not fully shut can open while you drive.

Number plate and lights

The number plate must be firmly attached and readable, also with snow or dirt. The plate light must work. A tow bar or bike carrier must not cover the plate.

You may not make a number plate yourself. Does a carrier cover your rear lights or plate? Then you need a light bar and an official plate. See bike carrier.

Which parts must work?

More about tyres under tread depth and tyre pressure.

Towing a car: at most 5 metres

When towing, there is at most 5 metres between the two cars. The driver of the towed car also needs a valid licence. Agree beforehand how you will brake, signal and which route you take.

Use a strong rope or a tow bar and attach it properly. Check the owner’s manual: some cars may not be towed. In doubt, or on a motorway or autoweg? Call roadside assistance.