Netherlands Grants First EU Approval for Tesla Full Self-Driving

The Netherlands became the first European Union nation to approve Tesla Inc.'s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software on April 13, 2026. The Netherlands Vehicle Authority (RDW) issued the type approval after the system underwent 18 months of testing and covered 1.6 million kilometers on European roads.

The software is available for use on highways and city streets, with pricing set at 99 euros monthly or 7,500 euros for a full purchase. To access the feature, drivers must complete a mandatory activation tutorial and a quiz to confirm their understanding of the interface and their legal accountability for the vehicle's operation.

This European version of the software differs from the U.S. iteration to comply with UN-R171 standards. Modifications include stricter eye-tracking, limited driving profiles, and specific steering-wheel requirements. Following this national approval, the Netherlands intends to submit the system for EU-wide approval, which would require a majority vote from member states to enable a broader continental rollout.