How to object to a traffic fine in the Netherlands

The short answer

For an objection against a traffic fine in the Netherlands, you have 6 weeks from the date on the fine. You submit the objection in writing to the address stated on the fine, usually the CJIB (Centraal Justitieel Incassobureau) or the public prosecutor (officier van justitie). In your objection letter, you explain why you disagree with the fine. You don't have to pay any costs for filing an objection. However, it's wise to provide good arguments for why the fine is unjustified.

What does Dutch law say?

The right to object to traffic fines is regulated in the Traffic Administrative Law Act (Wet administratiefrechtspraak verkeer - Wahv) and the General Administrative Law Act (Algemene wet bestuursrecht - Awb). These Dutch laws give you the right to make your objections known within a certain timeframe. The authorities must take your objection seriously and review your case again. If your objection is rejected, you can still appeal to the court.

What should you watch out for?

Pay close attention to the 6-week deadline - after this period you usually cannot object anymore. Ensure your objection is written and clearly motivates why you disagree with the fine. Always keep copies of your objection letter and send it by registered mail or with proof of delivery.

Practical example

Suppose you receive a parking fine whilst claiming you had a valid parking ticket. You write an objection letter explaining that you had paid and include a photo of the parking ticket as evidence. The CJIB reviews your case again and checks whether an error was perhaps made by the parking attendant. If it turns out you had indeed paid, the fine is withdrawn. Without an objection, you would have had to pay the fine, even though it was unjustified.

What can you do?

Follow these steps to correctly object to your traffic fine in the Netherlands.