Will I need to drive my own vehicle to conduct my everyday life (work/school/shopping) at my destination?
Not necessarily. The public transportation in Rotterdam is very good. You can even use a bike to get around the city.
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How can I legally drive a vehicle in this city?
Anyone who lives in the Netherlands and intends to drive a motor vehicle must possess a valid driver's license and be at least 18 years old. You may use your foreign driver's license for a certain time, the length of which depends on which country issued the license. However, you must obtain a Dutch driver's license by the time this probation period has elapsed.

If you have a valid driver's license issued in one of the countries of the European Union or in Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway, you may use it for up to a year from the day you start living in the Netherlands. A driver's license from one of these countries can also be renewed for a longer period of valid use in the Netherlands. This is done by registering your driver's license with the RDW Vehicle Technology and Information Center through your town hall. After this registration (which is free), the driver's license is valid in the Netherlands up to a maximum of ten years after date of issue of the original license.

If you have a driver's license issued in a country other than those listed above, or in the Dutch Antilles or Aruba, you may use it up to 185 days after moving to the Netherlands. However, you must obtain a Dutch driver's license by the time this period has elapsed.
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What side of the road do people drive on?
Right side.
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Describe typical public transportation an expat might use to get around the city.
Buses, trams and metro (subway) provide frequent service. Rotterdam's municipal public transport system—the RET—has an extensive public transport network with excellent connections. This service even extends into the night time.
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Could an expat also use public transportation to get out of the city—to surrounding towns, recreation areas or suburbs? If so, list options.
Transport outside the Rotterdam region is best provided by train. Information about arrival and departure times can be found in the railway timetable book (spoorboekje). Information on all public transport within the Netherlands is available by calling 0900-9292.
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In regards to transportation, are there any safety issues I should be aware of?
In the metro there is a warning sound before the doors close. It is dangerous to get on or off during this time. Also beware of pickpockets, mainly at train stations and metro stations.
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Where do I buy tickets/tokens/etc. for the major public transportation?
For the bus or tram, tickets can be purchased from the driver. It is cheaper to buy in advance and is possible at all railway stations, post offices, at many bookstores and at some cigarette shops.

Train tickets need to be bought at the railway station before boarding.

The OV-chipkaart is used in the Netherlands. This card can be used for any public transportation method. You can buy an anonymous card for 7,50 euro or apply for a personal card. OV-chipkaarten are available at railway stations, post offices and some supermarkets.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.