Perfect infinitives (na te hebben/zijn)

Perfect Infinitives with na

To say "after having [done something]," use na followed by a perfect infinitive: na + [optional details] + te hebben + the past participle.

After having learned the theory, it is important to take a driving lesson.
Na de theorie te hebben geleerd, is het belangrijk om een rijles te nemen.

When a na clause starts the sentence, it occupies the first position. The main clause that follows must start immediately with its verb (inversion).

After having shifted gears, I release the clutch.
Na te hebben geschakeld, laat ik de koppeling los.

If you place the na clause after the main clause, the main clause keeps its standard subject-verb word order.

The instructor helps me, after having explained the theory.
De instructeur helpt mij, na de theorie te hebben uitgelegd.

Using zijn Instead of hebben

Verbs that use zijn in the present perfect (often indicating a change of state or motion) use te zijn instead of te hebben.

After having passed, I shake the examiner's hand.
Na te zijn geslaagd, schud ik de hand van de examinator.

Adding Objects and Details

Direct objects, adverbs, and negative words go directly between na and the te hebben/zijn verb block.

After having braked for the intersection, we must pull away.
Na voor het kruispunt te hebben geremd, moeten we optrekken.
After not giving the bus right of way, he failed.
Na de bus geen voorrang te hebben gegeven, is hij gezakt.

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