Dutch car insurance premiums jump 40% in three years, drivers pay hundreds more
Car insurance premiums in the Netherlands have risen sharply in the past three years, increasing by 40 percent, according to an analysis by RTL Z based on the latest inflation figures from the CBS. This steep rise means motorists now pay hundreds of euros more annually for coverage.
The increase stands out compared to other types of insurance and general living costs, which have also risen but not as dramatically. The spike in car insurance costs accelerated notably since 2022, following a brief decline during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Comparison site Independer, which calculated the average premiums for a typical car at RTL Nieuws’s request, found that the average annual premium has jumped by roughly 400 euros compared to two years ago. Currently, drivers pay about 1,588 euros per year on average for car insurance.
The premium increase varies by insurance type. Basic liability (WA) coverage rose by about 12 percent, roughly 150 euros more annually. Limited coverage policies (Beperkt casco), which include protection against fire, storm, or theft damage to the insured vehicle, increased by approximately 375 euros. Fully comprehensive (all-risk) insurance saw the largest hike—up more than 50 percent—equating to an average increase of 668 euros in just two years.
Michel Ypma, car insurance expert at Independer, explained the reasons behind these rising premiums: “Insurers have been paying out more on claims over the past four years, and costs keep increasing.” He told RTL about the growing complexity of car parts, which are becoming more advanced and expensive to replace, especially in electric vehicles. “Inflation and rising costs for labor and raw materials are also key factors. Together, these cause the significant premium hikes seen in recent years.”
