The Dutch driver's license process requires passing a theory test first, then a practical driving test, with both exams administered by the CBR (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheidsbewijzen)

You cannot take the practical test until you have passed the theory test. The CBR is the only organisation that administers both exams in the Netherlands. You must be at least 18 years old to hold a full car license (category B), though you can start lessons at 17. The entire process typically takes several months because theory test slots fill quickly and practical test waiting lists can be long.

Your first step is to register with your municipality and obtain a BSN (burgerservicenummer, or citizen service number) if you do not already have one. You will need this number to book your theory test. You do not need a learner's permit in the Netherlands — you can begin driving lessons when ready with a may have access to instructor, though most people take lessons after passing the theory test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass the CBR theory test before you can sit the practical driving test, and both tests must be completed within a set timeframe.
  • Theory test slots book weeks or months in advance, so register early on the CBR website even if you are not yet ready to take the exam.
  • You will need a valid passport or ID card, proof of residence, and your BSN to register for both tests.
  • Practical test waiting times vary by region; some areas have slots within weeks while others may require months of waiting.
  • You can take lessons with a professional instructor or a family member over 24 with a full license, but most people combine both approaches.

Registering for the theory test through the CBR

Go to the CBR website (cbr.nl) and create an account using your BSN, email address, and a password. You will need to enter your personal details and confirm your address. The CBR will send you a confirmation email — check your spam folder if you do not see it within a few minutes.

Once your account is active, you can book a theory test slot. Select your preferred test centre (usually your nearest city) and browse available dates. Slots fill quickly, especially in urban areas like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. If no dates appear for the next month, check again in a few days — cancellations open up regularly. You can book multiple test attempts in advance if you want to find a date before you are fully ready.

The theory test costs approximately €120 to €130 and must be paid by debit card or credit card at the time of booking. You will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, and test centre address. Arrive at least 15 minutes early with a valid passport or ID card.

What the theory test covers and how to prepare

The CBR theory test has two parts: a multiple-choice section on road rules and traffic signs, and a hazard perception section where you watch video clips and respond to dangerous situations. You must score at least 80 percent on the multiple-choice section and at least 75 percent on the hazard perception section to pass. If you fail either section, you must retake the entire test.

The test is available in Dutch, English, and several other languages. You select your language when you book. Most people study using the official CBR learning materials, which are available on the CBR website and through third-party apps. The CBR also publishes a free handbook (Verkeersregels) that covers all the rules tested. Many people combine the handbook with practice tests available through apps like "CBR Theorie" or "Rijschool.net" to build familiarity with the question format.

You have 50 minutes to complete the multiple-choice section and 20 minutes for the hazard perception section. The test is taken on a computer at the CBR test centre. You cannot bring notes, phones, or other materials into the testing room.

Booking and preparing for the practical driving test

You can book your practical test only after you have passed the theory test. The CBR will notify you by email that you are now may be able to access. Return to your CBR account and select a practical test date and time. Practical test slots are often booked weeks or months in advance, depending on your region. Rural areas sometimes have shorter waiting times than major cities.

The practical test lasts approximately 45 minutes and costs around €190 to €200. You will drive with a CBR examiner who will assess your vehicle control, observation, decision-making, and compliance with traffic rules. The examiner will direct you through a route that includes urban streets, rural roads, and motorway driving (if applicable to your test route).

You must bring a car that is roadworthy and insured, a valid passport or ID card, and proof that you have taken lessons with a professional instructor (most examiners expect to see at least 30 to 40 hours of professional instruction, though this is not a strict legal requirement). Many people arrange their practical test through a driving school (rijschool), which handles the booking and provides the test car.

Taking lessons with a professional instructor or family member

Professional driving instructors (rijschool) are common in the Netherlands and typically charge €40 to €60 per hour for lessons. An instructor will teach you vehicle control, road awareness, and test technique. Most people take 30 to 50 hours of professional instruction before attempting the practical test. You can find instructors through online directories, local searches, or recommendations from friends.

You can also practise with a family member or friend who is at least 24 years old and holds a full Dutch or EU driving license. That person does not need to be a professional instructor. However, they cannot teach you test technique or provide the structured progression that a professional offers. Most people combine both: they take some lessons with a professional and practise between lessons with a family member to build confidence and reduce costs.

If you practise with a family member, you must display an "L" plate (learner plate) on the front and back of the car. These are available at petrol stations and car accessory shops for a few euros. There are no restrictions on where you can drive or what roads you can use while displaying the L plate.

What happens after you pass the practical test

If you pass the practical test, the examiner will tell you when ready. You will receive a temporary certificate (bewijs van rijvaardigheid) that is valid for driving while your permanent license is being issued. The CBR will post your permanent plastic license card to your address within one to two weeks. This card is valid for 10 years.

If you fail the practical test, you can book another attempt through your CBR account. There is no waiting period between attempts, though test slots may not be available for several weeks. You can take the practical test as many times as needed. Each attempt costs the same fee.

Your theory test result remains valid for two years from the date you passed it. If you do not pass the practical test within two years, you must retake the theory test before you can book another practical test.

Exchanging a foreign license for a Dutch license

If you already hold a valid driving license from another EU or EEA country, you can exchange it for a Dutch license without taking tests. You will need to register with your municipality, obtain a BSN, and visit your local municipality office (gemeente) with your foreign license, passport, and proof of residence. The municipality will process the exchange and issue your Dutch license, usually within a few weeks.

If your foreign license is from outside the EU or EEA, you will need to take both the theory and practical tests as described above. Some countries have reciprocal agreements with the Netherlands that may shorten the process — check with your municipality or the CBR website for details specific to your country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the practical test before I pass the theory test?

No. The CBR will not allow you to book a practical test until you have passed the theory test. Your theory test result must be current (within two years) at the time you take the practical test.

What if I fail the theory test?

You can retake the theory test as many times as you need. Each attempt costs the same fee. You can book your next attempt when ready through your CBR account, though available slots may not be for several weeks. There is no limit on the number of attempts.

Do I need to take lessons with a professional instructor?

No legal requirement exists, but most examiners expect to see evidence of professional instruction. Practising only with a family member makes it harder to learn test technique and pass on your first or second attempt. Most people find a combination of professional lessons and family practise most effective.

How long does the whole process take from start to finish?

This varies widely. If you book your theory test when ready and pass on the first attempt, you might take the practical test within two to three months. If theory test slots are full or you need multiple attempts, the process can take six months to a year. Practical test waiting times are the biggest variable.

What if I move to a different part of the Netherlands after I book my test?

You can change your test centre through your CBR account at any time before your test date. If you have already paid for a test at one centre, you can transfer it to another centre, though some CBR offices may charge a small fee for the change.