Dutch traffic fines among Europe’s highest, led by charges for phone while driving
Traffic fines across Europe vary sharply in cost, with the Netherlands standing out as one of the most expensive countries for several common violations, particularly using a phone while driving, according to comparative figures cited by the ANWB and enforcement data, AD reports.
In the Netherlands, drivers caught holding a phone or otherwise using electronic devices behind the wheel face a fine of 440 euros. In Austria, the penalty is 50 euros, with conditions attached: the base fine can be doubled for those who refuse to pay, and it can rise to 140 euros.
The contrast extends across Europe. In France and Spain, wearing headphones or earbuds while driving is treated the same as holding a phone. Offenders face fines of 100 euros in France and 200 euros in Spain.
Speeding penalties also vary widely. For driving 10 kilometers per hour over the limit outside built-up areas, the Netherlands charges 89 euros. Belgium charges 53 euros, Italy 41 euros, and Austria 20 euros as a minimum penalty. Switzerland has issued what is described as the “heaviest penalty ever” for speeding, highlighting the severity possible under its system.
Running a red light is notably expensive in the Netherlands, where the fixed penalty is 310 euros. Switzerland comes closest at about 275 euros. Germany starts at 90 euros but can rise to 230 euros and include a one-month driving ban for reckless behavior. In Belgium, the minimum is 116 euros, while Luxembourg sets it at 49 euros. In Belgium and Luxembourg, even driving through an orange light can trigger a fine.
Traffic enforcement is also a major source of revenue in the Netherlands. Last year, speeding fines generated 460 million euros, including 272 million euros from violations outside built-up areas and on highways. Running red lights brought in 66 million euros, while fines for illegal use of electronic devices contributed 89 million euros.
The Dutch traffic fines are set to rise again next year by about 2.7 percent, in line with inflation. Dutch drivers are also frequently fined abroad. In 2024, nearly 300,000 motorists received fines in France alone.
