The OV-Chipkaart is based on NXP Mifare Classic 4k contactless technology, and can be used as either an electronic purse, or to store pre-loaded products such as season tickets.

NS will convert all its existing ticket machines to dispense OV-Chipkaarts, offering all products available through the national smartcard system, and provide credit top-ups for regular passengers. The machines will also be able to print a disposable paper smart card for occasional passengers, which will be introduced in autumn 2013.

Regular passengers in the Dutch public transport system are obliged to travel by the national smart card, which is already in use on bus, tram and metro networks in several towns and cities. However the rollout of the OV-Chipkaart has been beset with technical failures, privacy problems and delays.