Driving Theory Test in the Netherlands
You can take the driving theory exam at any of the 20 CBR test centres across the Netherlands. Using your DigiD (digital identity), you can book a test date, time, and place on the CBR website. In addition, you can select whether you want to take the test in Dutch or English. It’s also possible to take the test in other languages, but you must book and pay for a translator.
Tests are conducted digitally using computers at the test centre. The multiple-choice exam takes about 30 minutes and comprises three sections as follows:
● 25 questions on hazard perception (13 correct answers to pass)
● 12 questions on knowledge of traffic rules and road signs (12 correct answers to pass)
● 28 insight questions that test how you act and apply the traffic rules in different situations (25 correct answers to pass)
Results are shown instantly on the screen after the test and sent to your email. After passing, you have Eighteen months to complete the practical test to apply for your driver’s license. CBR also provides options such as extra time or guided tests for people with certain disorders or disabilities.
A regular Dutch theory test costs €41, an English test costs €46.50, and a guided theory test costs €99.
Practical driving tests in the Netherlands
You can take the practical test after clearing the theory test and getting a health statement. Most of the time, your driving school will book a helpful test for you. You’ll have to expressly give your school authorisation (in Dutch) to schedule an examination and pay the €125.75 fee on your behalf. You can also request the exam yourself on the CBR website.
The practical test takes about 55 minutes and begins with the examiner checking your ID, test invitation, and theory test results. After this, you’ll be required to do the following:
● Fill out a self-reflection form
● Perform a basic eye test by reading a car license plate at about 25 meters
● Answer questions about different car parts
● Drive the car following the instructions of the examiner
● Drive the vehicle independently to a destination using a navigation system
Costs of a Driving License in the Netherlands
A driving license costs €44.65 and takes about five days. You can also submit an urgent application with shorter processing times for a fee of €78.75. The city office will then give you a receipt with a date for collecting your license. If you fail to collect your permit within three months of this date, you will need to re-apply.
Renewing a Dutch driving licence
Like most EU driving licences, a Dutch driving licence is valid for ten years from the date of issue and should be renewed before it expires. Before your Dutch licence expires, the RDW will send a reminder to your home address. All you need to do then is go to your municipality (you don’t need to take the letter with you). Your driving licence has expired if one or more of the categories listed on the back of your request is no longer valid. Again, you can renew the right at your municipality.
Renewing a foreign driving licence in the Netherlands
For expats living in the Netherlands, it’s not possible to restore a foreign or EU/EAA driver’s licence; you will instead need to apply to the RDW for a Dutch driving licence.
Lost or stolen driving licence
If your Dutch or EU/EEA driving licence is lost or stolen, you must lodge a police declaration with the municipality where you are registered to receive a new one. You must provide extra documentation for a lost EU/EEA licence.
If your non-EU/EEA driving licence is lost or stolen in the Netherlands, you must complete the Dutch driving exams for a new (Dutch) driving licence.
