Obligation to carry identification

On 1 January 2005 it became compulsory for everyone in the Netherlands from the age of 14 years to carry proof of identity.

Everyone in the Netherlands aged 14 and older should at all times be able to show a valid identity document to police officers and other law enforcement authorities if so requested. The following documents are accepted as valid proof of identity: 

• Passport
• European Identity Card
• Driving Licence (not accepted everywhere as official identification)
• Dutch Identity Card (for Dutch citizens only)
• Privileged Person's Identity Card