1996–97 Eerste Divisie

The Dutch Eerste Divisie in the 1996–97 season was contested by 18 teams. MVV won the championship.

New entrants
Relegated from the 1995–96 Eredivisie
 * Go Ahead Eagles

Promotion/relegation play-offs
In the promotion/relegation competition, eight entrants (six from this league and two from the Eredivisie) entered in two groups. The group winners were promoted to the Eredivisie.