Dutch Government & ILT: Taxi Licence and P-Number for Taxi Drivers

Every taxi operator in the Netherlands needs a mandatory licence from the ILT. The P-number (personal transport number) is also an essential part of your identification as a taxi driver. We explain how it works.

The Mandatory Taxi Licence from the ILT

In the Netherlands, it is legally required to hold an operator licence for taxi transport when commercially transporting passengers. This licence is issued by the Inspectie Leefomgeving en Transport (ILT) on behalf of the Dutch government.

Without a valid licence, you may not carry out paid taxi rides. Operating without a licence is a criminal offence and can result in fines and seizure of the vehicle.

Requirements for the Taxi Licence

Good repute: No serious criminal offences in the past five years
Professional competence: Diploma in professional competence for road transport, or exemption based on proven experience
Financial capacity: Sufficient capital to operate the business

The P-Number: Your Personal Taxi Identification

In addition to the operator licence, every driver working as a taxi driver needs a P-number (Personenvervoernummer — personal transport number). This is a personal registration number proving you are authorised to carry out paid passenger transport.

Requirements for the P-Number

Valid category B driving licence (minimum)
Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG)
Medical declaration of fitness to drive
Minimum age of 21

How to Apply for a P-Number

The P-number is applied for via RDW.nl. After approval, you receive a government pass (rijkspas) which you use to log into the onboard computer.

Enforcement and Checks

The ILT and police regularly check whether taxi drivers hold the correct licences and a valid P-number. Operating without these documents risks a fine and suspension of your taxi activities.

More Information

Applications and information via the ILT website and Rijksoverheid.nl.