The CBR practical exam: a step-by-step walkthrough
Knowing what to expect on exam day makes the whole situation a lot less daunting. The CBR practical exam takes about 55 minutes in total and consists of two clear sections. Below we walk you through the entire timeline, from arrival to receiving your result.
Arrival and the vehicle check section
You check in at the desk of the CBR exam centre, usually in Rijswijk for students of Rijschool Denhaag. Make sure you have a valid identity document with you — without it the exam cannot go ahead. After checking in you wait until the examiner comes to collect you.
The exam begins with the vehicle check section. The examiner asks you to inspect the car on a number of points: fluid levels, tyres, lighting or windscreen wipers. You do not need to be a technical expert — the point is that you know how to carry out the basic checks and can explain what you see. Practise this section during your lessons at Rijschool Denhaag too, as it is sometimes overlooked.
After the vehicle check section you get in and adjust your seat, mirror and seatbelt. The examiner calmly explains how instructions will be given — through spoken commands and sometimes sat-nav directions.
The driving section and the result
The actual driving section lasts about 45 minutes. You drive through the area around the exam centre. The examiner assesses on three main categories: safety, vehicle control and participation in traffic. One mistake does not automatically mean failing — it is the overall picture that counts. Dangerous situations or a serious mistake do lead directly to a fail.
Immediately after the drive the examiner gives you the result in the car. You hear straight away whether you have passed and receive a summary of the points noted. At Rijschool Denhaag we always go through that feedback together — whether you pass or fail — so you understand what it means for any next steps.
- Valid identity document required at check-in
- Vehicle check section: explain the basic car checks
- Driving section lasts approximately 45 minutes
- Assessment on safety, control and participation in traffic
- Instant verbal result given in the car
