Using your phone while driving in the Netherlands: what the law says
Whoever drives a vehicle may not hold a mobile electronic device while driving: a phone, a tablet or a media player (article 61a of the RVV 1990). It applies to cyclists too. Once you are really standing still, for example at a red light or in a queue that has come to a stop, you may hold it. As soon as you move again, even creeping forward in a queue, you may not. A phone in a holder, used as a sat nav or hands-free, is not forbidden by this rule, but anything that takes your attention off the road is a risk.
The rule
It is forbidden for anyone driving a vehicle to hold a mobile electronic device that can be used for communication or information processing (article 61a). That includes at least a mobile phone, a tablet and a media player. Holding is the key word: a phone in a holder, used as a sat nav or for a hands-free call, is not covered by this article.
Standing still is allowed, and the rule also applies on a bike
The ban applies while you are driving. If you are really standing still, for example at a red light or in a queue that has come to a stop, you may hold and use your phone. As soon as you move again, even creeping forward in a queue, it is no longer allowed. And a bicycle is a vehicle, so the rule applies to cyclists too.
Hands-free is allowed, but not without risk
The law does not forbid using a phone hands-free, but every distraction costs attention. On the exam, questions about distraction come back in the animation questions, where you have to spot danger in time: animation questions explained.
The exam trap: holding your phone while you creep forward in a queue. That counts as driving, so it is not allowed. Standing completely still, for example at a red light, is allowed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my phone while driving in the Netherlands?
You may not hold a phone, tablet or other mobile electronic device while driving. Using it hands-free, for example in a holder or through the car's system, is not forbidden by this rule, but it still distracts.
Does waiting at a red light count as driving?
No. If you are really standing still, at a red light or in a queue that has come to a stop, you may hold your phone. As soon as you move again, even slowly, it counts as driving and holding is not allowed.
Does the rule apply to cyclists too?
Yes. The rule applies to anyone who drives a vehicle, and a bicycle is a vehicle.
Can I use my phone as a sat nav?
Yes, in a holder. You may not hold it in your hand while driving.
Sources, checked on 3 November 2026:
Written by Nawfal Serraji, traffic law specialist and founder of HaalTheorie.