Identification Obligation

Identification Law (Identificatieplicht)

The new Identity Law (Identificatieplicht) requires everyone, aged 14 and above, to carry official identification in the Netherlands. The law is effective from January 1, 2005.

The form of acceptable identification depends on both the situation and on your nationality. Acceptable identification is defined as a valid passport, a driver’s license, a valid Dutch or European ID card, or a residence permit. For US citizens, only a valid passport or residence permit are acceptable forms of identification.

Do you have Dutch Nationality?

You must identify yourself using a valid driver’s license, a valid passport or identity card.

Do you have Dual Nationality? (i.e. Dutch and another nationality)

You must identify yourself using a valid Dutch passport, driver’s license or identity card.

Do you possess the nationality of a European Union (EU) Country (e.g. Spain or Germany) or the one of the Eurozone Countries (EER) (e.g. Switzerland)?

You must identify yourself using your passport or your EU/EER residence permit. Although it is not required as an EU/EER national to have a residence permit, the current policy of the identity law states "all immigrants must be able to show [their] immigration documents".

Do you possess the nationality of a country outside of the European Union (EU) or Eurozone (EER) including the USA?

You must identify yourself using a valid residence permit or passport.

Please note: For Dutch citizens, a driver’s license will not be accepted when visiting the tax office, requesting a Burger Servicenummer (BSN or Citizen Service number, formerly SOFI number), or collecting social security benefits. Dutch nationals above the age of 14 who are included on a parent's passport will need to obtain a passport or an Identity Card.

Who can ask for ID?

The police, immigration and customs officials, tax officials, forest rangers, labour and environmental inspectors have the authority to ask to see your identification documents.