Using a mobile phone while driving in the Netherlands (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Holding a mobile device while driving is banned. Hands-free use is allowed.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes [1] |
| Hands-free useUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Allowed [2] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
Notes
- The ban applies to anyone who drives a vehicle. It covers mobile phones, tablets and media players.
- The government page says a phone may be used hands-free. Holding it between ear and shoulder is not allowed.
- The fine for 2026 could not be read from the official fine table (Boetebase). The Openbaar Ministerie page gives EUR 430 for 2025, excluding administration costs.
- No official page read states whether penalty points apply.
Sources
- Overheid.nl (wetten.overheid.nl): Reglement verkeersregels en verkeerstekens 1990 (RVV 1990) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Rijksoverheid: Mag ik appen, bellen en naar muziek luisteren als ik op de weg rijd? (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.