Blue Licence Plate for Taxis: What It Means and When Is It Mandatory?

The blue licence plate is a legally required designation for vehicles used as taxis in the Netherlands. We explain what the blue plate involves, what exceptions exist and how to apply for it.

What is the Blue Licence Plate?

In the Netherlands, taxis engaged in commercial passenger transport are required to display a blue licence plate. Unlike the yellow plate used for private vehicles, the blue plate is a direct indicator for passengers, enforcement officers and other road users that the vehicle is an officially recognised taxi.

When Are You Required to Display a Blue Plate?

When operating as a taxi operator with a valid ILT operator licence
When commercially (paid) transporting passengers in a passenger car
When using a vehicle registered as a taxi with the RDW

Benefits of the Blue Plate

Passenger trust: Immediately visible sign of a licensed taxi
Access to taxi stands: Only official taxis with blue plates may use designated taxi stands
Lower vehicle tax (MRB): Taxis with blue plates are entitled to a reduced Motor Vehicle Tax rate

How to Apply for a Blue Licence Plate

The blue licence plate is applied for via RDW.nl. You will need:

A valid vehicle registration document
Proof of your taxi operator licence (ILT)

After approval, the blue plates are issued and registered with the RDW.

Enforcement

Police and the ILT check for the presence of a valid blue plate in combination with a taxi operator licence and BCT use. Operating as a taxi without a blue plate is a violation resulting in a fine.

More Information

All information on applying for the blue licence plate is available at the RDW.