Bus Driver Jobs in the Netherlands with accommodation
Are you considering a job as a bus driver in the Netherlands? It’s an excellent career option—especially for international workers—offering job security, steady income, and additional perks like housing and transportation allowances. At Celoria Recruitment Solutions, we specialize in helping candidates find rewarding opportunities abroad, including in public transportation roles.
This article provides an in-depth look at bus driver salaries in the Netherlands, key influencing factors, and what you can expect when relocating for work in this field.
Average Salary of a Bus Driver in the Netherlands
The average net monthly salary for bus drivers in the Netherlands is around €1,655, translating to approximately €19,860 annually. In terms of gross salary (before taxes), this figure rises to €3,770 per month or €45,324 annually.
| Salary Type | Monthly | Annual | Hourly |
| Average | €1,655 | €19,860 | €10.34 |
| Median | €1,588 | €19,060 | €9.92 |
| 25th Percentile | €786 | €9,440 | €4.91 |
| 75th Percentile | €2,661 | €31,940 | €16.63 |
Compared to many Southern and Eastern European countries, Dutch salaries are competitive. However, countries like Germany (€3,560/month) and the UK (€2,540/month) offer slightly higher average earnings.
City-by-City Salary Breakdown
Salaries vary based on the cost of living and local demand. Here's how average monthly earnings look in different Dutch cities:
| City | Monthly Salary |
| Eindhoven | €1,795 |
| Utrecht | €1,708 |
| Nijmegen | €1,692 |
| Amsterdam | €1,665 |
| Rotterdam | €1,667 |
| Breda | €1,415 |
Bigger cities often offer higher wages to compensate for higher living costs.
Experience Matters: Salary Progression by Years
Experience plays a key role in salary growth. Entry-level drivers may start at €880/month, but wages increase steadily over time.
| Experience | Monthly Salary | Hourly Rate |
| 0-2 years | €880 | €5.07 |
| 2-5 years | €1,220 | €7.04 |
| 5-10 years | €1,730 | €9.98 |
| 10-15 years | €2,110 | €12.19 |
| 20+ years | €2,430 | €14.03 |
Raises occur roughly every 17 months, with an average annual salary increase of 6%.
Public vs. Private Employers
Public sector employers typically pay 4% more than private companies.
- Public sector: €58,720/year
- Private sector: €56,640/year
Education also impacts pay. A bus driver with a diploma or bachelor’s degree can earn up to 50% more than someone with only a high school education.
Gender Pay Gap
Despite equal responsibilities, male drivers in the Netherlands earn approximately 18% more than their female counterparts:
- Men: €21,540/year
- Women: €18,280/year
Efforts toward gender pay equality continue across the transportation sector.
Additional Benefits & Perks
Working as a bus driver in the Netherlands comes with several financial and lifestyle benefits:
Overtime Pay
Drivers earn 150% of their hourly rate for overtime hours.
Night Shifts
Shifts between midnight and 6 a.m. are paid at a higher rate, with additional premiums for weekends and public holidays.
Holiday Bonuses
Many companies offer year-end bonuses equivalent to one month’s salary.
Performance Incentives
Some employers provide bonuses for safe driving, punctuality, or fuel efficiency.
Legal Requirements: Code 95 Certification
To work as a bus driver in the Netherlands, Code 95 certification is required. This proves the driver meets the EU’s professional competence standards. Drivers must:
- Hold a valid category D (bus) license
- Be at least 18 years old
- Pass 6 exams within 2 years
- Complete 35 hours of refresher training every 5 years
Celoria Recruitment Solutions helps candidates navigate the Code 95 process, including exam preparation and document support.
How Dutch Salaries Compare Globally
| Country | Gross Monthly Salary |
| Netherlands | €3,777 |
| Germany | €3,562 |
| France | €2,527 |
| UK | €2,540 |
| Italy | €2,422 |
| Spain | €2,286 |
The Netherlands offers the highest gross monthly salary for bus drivers among these countries, with attractive social benefits and work conditions.
Why Work with Celoria Recruitment Solutions?
At Celoria Recruitment Solutions, we specialize in international job placements for bus drivers and other skilled roles in the Netherlands. Our team provides end-to-end support:
- Job matching and application assistance
- Help with Code 95 certification
- Accommodation arrangement
- Relocation and document support
- Ongoing communication and aftercare
Let us take care of the process so you can focus on driving your career forward!
Ready to Start Your Journey?
The demand for skilled bus drivers in the Netherlands is strong—and growing. If you’re motivated, responsible, and ready for a stable career abroad, this opportunity is for you.
Apply now with Celoria Recruitment Solutions and take the first step toward your next adventure behind the wheel!