Driving in the Netherlands vs. Tonga: Key Differences
Driving in the Netherlands and Tonga presents unique challenges and regulations that every traveler should be aware of. Notable distinctions include driving on opposite sides of the road, varying speed limits, and the presence of dedicated bus and cycle lanes in the Netherlands. Understanding these contrasts is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey abroad.
Driving Side
The driving side in netherlands is the Right Side of the road
Driving Safety Score
The driving Driving Safety Score in netherlands is 90
Gas Price in USD
The driving Driving Safety Score for netherlands is 2.05 US Dollars
While the driving side of a country remains the same, the driving safety score is updated annually based on each countries car accident fatality rate. Lastly, the gas price is only an estimate. Due to frequent fluctuations, it serves as a general reference rather than an exact figure for each country.
Lanes
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving Side | Right | Left | |
| Markings: Solid Yellow Line | Not commonly used in the Netherlands, replaced by solid white lines on the road edges. | Often used to separate traffic directions. | |
| Markings: Dashed Yellow Line | Not typically used; centerlines are usually white. | Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe. | |
| Lane Usage: Slow Vehicles | Use rightmost lane. | Use leftmost lane. | |
| Bus Lanes: Presence | Yes | No | |
| Bus Lanes: Usage | Reserved for buses and sometimes taxis. | N/A | |
| Bus Lanes: Markings | Labeled 'BUS', 'LIJNBUS' or 'TAXI'; often with road signs. | N/A | |
| Cycle Lanes: Presence | Yes | No | |
| Cycle Lanes: Usage | Exclusive for bicycles. | N/A | |
| Cycle Lanes: Markings | Bicycle symbols and often distinct red coloring. | N/A | |
| High- Occupancy Lanes: Requirements | N/A | N/A | |
| Variable Speed Limits: Presence | Yes | No | |
| Variable Speed Limits: Indications | Electronic signs display current limits. | N/A |
Speeds Limits
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Areas: Standard | 50 km/h | 40-50 km/h | |
| Urban Areas: Residential Zones | 30 km/h | 40 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles | 80 km/h | 70-80 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Buses And Vans | 80 km/h | 70-80 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers | 80 km/h | 70-80 km/h | |
| Highways: Cars And Motorcycles | 100-130 km/h | No specific highways with designated higher speed limits | |
| Highways: Buses And Vans | 80-100 km/h | N/A | |
| Highways: Trucks And Trailers | 80-100 km/h | N/A | |
| Variable Speed Limits: Presence | Yes | No | |
| Variable Speed Limits: Indications | Electronic signs display current limits | N/A | |
| Enforcement: Speed Cameras | Yes | No widespread use | |
| Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines | Yes, but fines are often mailed after citation | Common; paid directly to traffic officers |
Signals
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together | Not used in Netherlands | Not commonly used in Tonga | |
| Use Of Indicators: Roundabouts | Signal when exiting | Use indicators appropriately | |
| Traffic Signs: Language | Dutch; symbols are standard | English and Tongan; symbols are standard |
Turns
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Turn On Red | Not allowed unless a green arrow is present | Prohibited | |
| U- Turns Allowed | Usually prohibited unless explicitly allowed by signs | Varies by location; check for signs |
Documentation
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A | Accepted; International Driving Permit not necessary | Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended | |
| Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U | Accepted for up to 185 days if accompanied by an International Driving Permit | Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Requirement | Periodic technical inspection required | Required; proof may be required | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Sticker | No sticker used; information in vehicle registration | Displayed on windshield | |
| Emergency Equipment: Warning Triangles | Mandatory | Not mandatory | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Recommended | Not mandatory |
Road Etiquette
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Vehicles: Protocol | Pull over to the right and stop if necessary | Pull over to the left and stop if necessary |
Driving in the Netherlands and Tonga presents unique challenges and regulations that every traveler should be aware of. Notable distinctions include driving on opposite sides of the road, varying speed limits, and the presence of dedicated bus and cycle lanes in the Netherlands. Understanding these contrasts is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey abroad.
Alcohol
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Limits: General Drivers | 0.05% | 0.08% | |
| Limits: Professional Drivers | 0.02% | 0.04% | |
| Limits: Underage Drivers | 0.02% | Zero tolerance | |
| Enforcement: Random Checks | Common; checkpoints used | Common at specific times or checkpoints | |
| Enforcement: Fines | Can be substantial, and may lead to license suspension | Varies; can be substantial |
Roundabouts
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Signaling: Entering | No signal required unless exiting immediately | Signal if turning immediately upon entry | |
| Signaling: Exiting | Signal right when preparing to exit | Signal left when preparing to exit |
Emergency Services
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact: General Emergency | 112 | 911 | |
| Contact: Traffic Police | Call 112 for police assistance | Contact local police | |
| Contact: Roadside Assistance | Check with your insurance provider or ANWB | Check with your insurance provider | |
| Emergency Equipment: Warning Triangles | Mandatory | Not mandatory, but recommended | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Recommended | Not mandatory, but recommended |
Penalties And Fines
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| Netherlands | Tonga | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Fines: Speeding | Varies; can be significant, points on license | Varies; spot fines by discretion of traffic police | |
| Common Fines: Seat Belts | Fines apply, points on license | Mandatory; fines for non-compliance | |
| Common Fines: Phone Use | Fines apply, points on license | Fines for handheld phone use while driving | |
| Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation | Fines apply, points on license | Fines apply | |
| Payment: On The Spot | Possible; fines also typically paid online or by mail | Common; fines usually paid immediately | |
| Payment: Deadline | Varies; payment within specified period required | Immediate payment preferred |