A Dictionary of Dutchness

OV-chipkaart

The OV (openbaar vervoer) chip card is replacing the paper strip-card and ticket system on Dutch buses and trams and should be operating nationwide by 2010. The smart card can be loaded with ‘money’ and the cost of each journey will be automatically deducted. Cards can either be personalised or anonymous and pre-paid cards will also be available. That is the theory, at least.