Which car do you take your CBR exam in?
It is legally permitted to take your exam in a car other than the lesson car — but the CBR sets strict requirements. We explain what those requirements are and why the lesson car is almost always the smartest choice.
CBR requirements for the exam vehicle
The CBR only accepts vehicles that meet a number of fixed technical requirements. The car must have dual controls: an extra brake pedal on the passenger side with which the supervisor can intervene in an emergency. In addition, the vehicle must be in approved condition and the instructor sitting beside you must hold a valid driving instructor authorisation.
In practice this means you cannot simply turn up to the exam in a family member's car. A private car almost never meets the dual-controls requirement. If you do want to sit the exam in your own vehicle, it would need to be specially converted and inspected — a costly and time-consuming process.
Why the lesson car is the best choice
The lesson car at Rijschool Denhaag is certified, always in good technical condition and you know the vehicle inside out after dozens of lessons. That familiar feeling is worth its weight in gold on exam day. There is already enough tension — an unfamiliar steering wheel or different driving dynamics add unnecessary stress.
We always schedule your exam in the same car you have been taking lessons in. That way you know exactly how the steering feels, how the brake responds and where all the controls are. That brings calm and helps you focus on your driving behaviour rather than on the vehicle. Our experience shows that students who sit their exam in the lesson car have a significantly higher pass rate.
- Dual controls required — private cars rarely qualify
- Lesson car is CBR-certified and always inspected
- Familiarity with the vehicle reduces exam stress
- Instructor accompanies you right to the exam door in Rijswijk
