In Utrecht, repeated traffic violations are strictly addressed. Penalties become harsher in cases of recidivism, and the CBR may impose measures such as driving fitness assessments or mandatory training. In serious cases, your driving license may be revoked.
What Does Recidivism Mean?
Recidivism means committing multiple punishable offenses. For traffic offenses, the judge looks at convictions from the past 5 years. For serious violations, this period may be extended.
Consequences of Repeated Violations
Harsher Sanctions
In cases of repetition, the judge imposes stricter penalties:
- Higher fines
- Longer driving bans
- More frequently conditional prison sentences
Measures by the CBR
The CBR may impose the following sanctions:
- EMA - Educative Measure Alcohol (course on alcohol use)
- LEMA - Light Educative Measure Alcohol
- EMG - Educative Measure Behaviour (training for better driving behaviour)
- Driving Fitness Assessment - Medical or psychological examination
Revocation of Driving License
In cases of serious repetition, the CBR may declare your driving license invalid. You must then retake the exam to be allowed to drive again.
Points System in the Netherlands?
There is no points system in the Netherlands like in some other countries. However, the CBR registers all traffic violations in the driving license register for future assessments.
Rules for New Drivers
For drivers in Utrecht who have held their driving license for less than 5 years, stricter standards apply. A single serious violation can already lead to a CBR investigation into driving fitness.
Repetition in Alcohol Violations
For repeatedly driving under the influence in Utrecht, specific rules apply:
- Mandatory courses or alternative sanctions (alcohol interlock program has been abolished)
- Extended driving ban
- Faster invalidation of the driving license
Frequently Asked Questions about Recidivism in Utrecht
How far back does the judge look in cases of recidivism?
The judge in Utrecht normally looks at convictions from the past 5 years. In serious offenses, such as driving under the influence with injury, this may be longer. The CBR registers all violations permanently in the driving license register.
What happens in case of a violation as a novice driver?
In Utrecht, novice drivers (first 5 years) can already receive a CBR investigation for one serious violation, such as speeding or drunk driving. This can lead to courses or revocation of the driving license.
Can I lose my driving license due to repeated speeding violations?
Yes, in Utrecht, the CBR can declare your driving license invalid for multiple speeding violations within a short time or at extremely high speeds. You must then retake the exam.
What is the difference between EMA and LEMA?
EMA (Educative Measure Alcohol) is an intensive multi-day course for serious alcohol violations (from 1.3‰) or recidivism. LEMA (Light Educative Measure Alcohol) is a one-day course for lighter violations (0.8‰ to 1.3‰). Both are mandatory and at your own expense.
How long can a driving ban last in cases of recidivism?
In Utrecht, the duration of a driving ban depends on the violation and your history. In cases of recidivism, it can range from several months to 5 years, especially in serious incidents such as accidents caused by alcohol.
Relevant Authorities in Utrecht:
District Court Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1
Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55