Tesla received its first approval for autonomous driving in one of the European countries.

Netherlands Approve “Fully Autonomous” Tesla Mode

Thursday When the RDW regulator gave permission for Tesla’s partially automated driving system (FSD) Netherlands April 5, 2026
Key Points
1. First FSD approval in Europe

- This is the first instance where Full Self‑Driving software received official recognition in any European country.

- The RDW stated that drivers can immediately activate the system after registration.

2. Plans for the entire EU

- Following the Dutch decision, the company plans to apply to the European Commission for FSD approval across all 27 member states.

- This will require consent from each country, as safety and environmental rules vary by region.

3. Relationship with RDW

- In November Tesla announced cooperation with RDW and expected a positive outcome in February, but the regulator then declined to guarantee approval.

- Elon Musk criticized European procedures, yet on April 5 publicly thanked RDW for its “extremely strict” work.

4. Difference between American and European versions

- Europe’s safety and environmental requirements are stricter, so FSD in the Netherlands differs from the version available in the U.S.

- Despite this, the system remains partially autonomous: the driver must constantly monitor the road.

What This Means for Drivers
- Immediate use – after registering a vehicle with FSD in the Netherlands, drivers can immediately activate the “fully autonomous” mode.

- Restrictions – the system does not replace the human; the driver must stay alert and ready to intervene.

Thus, the Dutch regulator has taken an important step toward integrating Tesla’s autopilot into European road infrastructure, paving the way for further technology deployment across the EU.