Yes, driving barefoot is not explicitly prohibited under Dutch traffic law, but it may violate broader safety regulations. The Reglement Verkeersregels en Verkeerstekens (RVV 1990) requires drivers to maintain full control of their vehicle, which could be interpreted as incompatible with barefoot driving in certain contexts.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Netherlands
- RVV 1990 Article 5.1 mandates that drivers must operate vehicles with due care, implying proper footwear may be expected if it affects control.
- Insurance Implications: Insurers may deny claims if barefoot driving is deemed negligent under Wet aansprakelijkheidsverzekering motorrijtuigen (WAM).
- Local Enforcement: Municipal police (politie) may issue fines under Article 5.1 if barefoot driving is deemed unsafe, though prosecutions are rare.
Recent 2026 amendments to the Wegenverkeerswet emphasize “adaptive driving conditions,” potentially tightening interpretations of footwear requirements. While no direct ban exists, drivers risk liability for accidents or traffic violations if barefoot operation is deemed hazardous.