Do traffic fines result in a criminal record?

A regular traffic fine does not result in a criminal record. Most traffic offenses are handled as so-called Mulder offenses - these are administrative fines that do not end up in the criminal register. This is important to know for your employer, insurances and other situations where your criminal record is requested.

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The short answer

No, a regular traffic fine does not result in a criminal record. Traffic offenses such as speeding, running a red light, or improper parking are treated as Mulder offenses. These are administrative fines imposed by the CJIB and not by a judge. They therefore do not end up in the criminal register and do not appear on your Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG). Only in the case of very serious traffic offenses can there be criminal prosecution.

What does the law say?

The Mulder Act of 1990 regulates that many traffic offenses are handled administratively instead of criminally. The Public Prosecution Service has transferred these offenses to administrative bodies such as the police and municipalities. They are allowed to impose fines directly without the intervention of a judge. The CJIB collects these fines and maintains a separate register that is separate from the criminal register.

1Administrative Law Enforcement of Traffic Regulations Act (Mulder Act)

2Judicial and Criminal Records Act regulates the criminal record

3Code of Criminal Procedure for criminal traffic cases

What should you watch out for?

Pay close attention to the difference between an administrative fine and criminal prosecution. Your fine notice clearly states whether it is a Mulder offense. If in doubt, you can always contact the CJIB. Some employers specifically ask about traffic fines, even though they are not on your criminal record.

1Check if the fine says 'Mulder offense' or 'administrative fine'

2Serious offenses such as drunk driving can still be criminally prosecuted

3Multiple offenses can sometimes lead to criminal prosecution

4Accidents with injury are often criminally prosecuted

Example from practice

Suppose you drive 20 km/h too fast within the built-up area and get a fine of €239. This is a Mulder offense and does not go on your criminal record. However, if you are caught driving under the influence, this is a criminal offense that will be criminally prosecuted. You will then receive a summons to appear in court instead of a simple fine notice. This criminal conviction will be recorded on your criminal record.

What can you do?

If you are unsure about the consequences of a traffic fine, you can take various steps to get clarity.

1Check your fine notice: if it says 'Mulder offense', you will not get a criminal record

2Request an extract from the criminal record via justis.nl if in doubt

3Contact the CJIB for questions about your administrative fine

Conclusion

A regular traffic fine does not result in a criminal record because these are administrative offenses. Only in the case of serious traffic offenses such as drunk driving will you get a criminal record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a speeding ticket go on my criminal record?

What happens if I don't pay my traffic fine?

Can employers see that I've had traffic fines?

When does a traffic offense go on my criminal record?

How long does a traffic fine remain in the CJIB system?

Can I object to a traffic fine?

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