ACCESS NL > Relocating to the Netherlands > First three months > Transportation Netherlands > Can I travel by public transport if I don’t have an OV-chipkaart?

Transportation Netherlands

I find it difficult and expensive to park my car in many major cities. Is there a way for me to park my car easier and cheaper?

How does the OV-chipkaart work?

What types of OV-chipkaart are there?

How can I find out which tram, bus or train I need and the departure times?

It seems that everybody is biking in the Netherlands. Where can I buy a bike for myself?

I have hardly any knowledge of biking. How can I learn to bike?

Can I travel by public transport if I don't have an OV-chipkaart?

For a single or round-trip ticket, you can purchase a single-use ‘smart card’ at the NS ticket machines and at service counters (NS Service Desk and Kiosks with ‘tickets & service sign’). This can be purchased at the station vending machines. This card allows for immediate travel, but cannot be re-charged or loaded. Please note that buying a single ticket is more expensive than travelling with an OV-chipkaart (chip card used to pay for public transport).  The single ticket or ‘smart card’ is also available in other means of transport such as tram, bus and metro.

Alternatively most of the train companies operating in the Netherlands offers the option to purchase your ticket online (e-ticket). For instance NS, the principal passenger railway operator in the Netherlands, offers not only the option to print your e-ticket but also to download it on your smartphone. For this you will need the ‘NS Reisplanner Xtra app’.

What is the minimum age to ride a moped in the Netherlands?

What kinds of bikes are available?

Are there any special traffic rules for cyclists?

Are there any special traffic rules for mopeds?

How can I arrange a parking space lot near my house?

How are parking spaces lots organised in the Netherlands?