Frequently Asked Questions
Question not listed? Call us at +31 6 22114552 or send a message via the contact form.
- How many driving lessons do I need on average? →
- It varies per person, but students typically take between 30 and 40 hours of driving lessons before the exam. After the trial lesson we give a realistic estimate based on your level.
- At what age can I start driving lessons? →
- You can start driving lessons from age 16.5 (under 2toDrive) and take the practical exam from age 17. You get your license at 17 and can drive with a supervisor until you turn 18.
- Do I need to pass the theory exam first? →
- You can start practical lessons before passing theory. However, you need your theory certificate before taking the practical exam. We do not teach theory ourselves — you obtain that through a separate theory course or self-study.
- What does a trial lesson cost? →
- A 60-minute trial lesson costs € 49. No obligation — you're not committed to anything after the trial.
- Can I take lessons in the evening or on weekends? →
- Yes, we have lesson slots available on weekdays, evenings and weekends. So lessons fit around school, work or studies.
- Where do my lessons start and end? →
- By arrangement we pick you up at an agreed location in The Hague or surroundings. Many students prefer to be collected from their doorstep.
- What happens if I fail my exam? →
- It happens, and it's not a disaster. We discuss together what can be improved, schedule extra lessons on weak points, and re-apply. No extra cost beyond the exam reservation itself.
- What is 2toDrive? →
- 2toDrive is a scheme that lets you start lessons at 16.5, take the exam at 17, and drive with a supervisor between 17 and 18. After that you can drive independently.
- How far in advance should I book a lesson? →
- We recommend booking at least a week ahead, especially for popular times. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
- What car will I be learning in? →
- We drive modern, well-maintained manual-transmission lesson cars. Comfortable, with good visibility, and suitable for all heights.
- I have exam anxiety — can I still get my driving licence? →
- Absolutely. At Rijschool Denhaag we regularly work with students who experience exam anxiety, and calm, well-planned driving lessons are exactly what helps build confidence step by step. We incorporate practice moments that closely mirror the exam conditions, so the CBR practical exam feels less daunting. Wondering whether it's for you? Call us on +31 6 22114552 — we're happy to think it through with you.
- I've had a huge number of lessons and still keep failing — am I a hopeless case? →
- Certainly not. Some people simply need more time and repetition, and that is entirely normal. At Rijschool Denhaag we analyse what went wrong in previous exams and build the lesson programme specifically around those points. With targeted driving lessons in The Hague or the surrounding area and a step-by-step approach, students who have failed multiple times do ultimately pass their practical exam.
- How do I cope with nerves on the day of my driving test? →
- A little tension is normal and even useful — it keeps you sharp. Practical advice: get enough sleep, eat something before the test, and arrive at the CBR exam centre in good time. During lessons at Rijschool Denhaag we consciously practise calm breathing and structured behaviour, precisely so you can hold onto that routine even under pressure.
- What exactly happens during the CBR practical exam? →
- The CBR practical exam lasts approximately 55 minutes and consists of a driving section of around 45 minutes through varied traffic environments, plus a short pre-drive section. The examiner gives driving instructions and assesses whether you can participate in traffic independently and safely. At the end you are told on the spot whether you have passed, and you receive verbal feedback.
- Where can I take my practical exam in the The Hague region? →
- In the region, Rijschool Denhaag students almost always sit their CBR practical exam at the exam centre in Rijswijk. Depending on availability, the CBR may also assign a centre elsewhere in the wider region. We make sure you are thoroughly familiar with the road environment around the exam centre so there are no surprises on the day.
- Is my driving instructor allowed to be present during the exam? →
- Yes, the driving instructor may sit in the back of the car as a passenger during the CBR practical exam. However, the instructor may not intervene or communicate with the student in any way during the exam — that role belongs exclusively to the CBR examiner. The presence of a familiar face can nonetheless be reassuring for some students.
- How many times can I retake the practical exam if I keep failing? →
- There is no legal maximum on how many times you may sit the CBR practical exam. However, if you fail three times in a row you are required to complete an AVT (additional traffic education and test) before you can book a new exam. The cost of each exam is your own responsibility.
- I have a visual impairment — can I still take the driving test? →
- Yes, a visual impairment does not have to be a barrier to obtaining your driving licence. If you meet the legal visual acuity requirements with glasses or contact lenses (at least 0.5 in the better eye), you may take the exam at the CBR. If there is doubt about your eyesight, the CBR will request a health declaration. Lessons at Rijschool Denhaag are possible with glasses or lenses, without any special adaptations.
- I am hard of hearing or deaf — can I take driving lessons? →
- Yes, deafness or hearing impairment is not a barrier to taking driving lessons or sitting the CBR practical exam. We adapt communication during lessons — for example through visual and tactile signals. For the exam, the CBR does not require a special exemption; the examiner adjusts instructions as needed. Please get in touch via info@rijschooldenhaag.nl so we can agree on an approach that works for you.
- I don't have a residence permit yet — can I already start lessons? →
- In principle you can start lessons, but to apply for a CBR practical exam you need a valid identity document and a BSN number. Without a valid residence status or BSN, the CBR may reject your exam application. Would you like to gain driving experience while you sort out your residence status? That is possible — contact us on +31 6 22114552 for a personal advice consultation.
- Automatic or manual — which should I choose? →
- If you choose to learn in an automatic, your licence will only be valid for automatics unless you later obtain a manual transmission endorsement. With a manual car you have universal coverage and your licence is valid for all passenger cars. Rijschool Denhaag uses a manual-transmission car as standard; if you specifically want to learn in an automatic, discuss that in advance.
- Can I take the CBR exam in a different car from the lesson car? →
- Yes, this is permitted provided the exam vehicle meets CBR requirements (dual controls, approved for examination, correct category). In practice we strongly advise taking the exam in the familiar Rijschool Denhaag lesson car — knowing the gear behaviour, seating position and mirrors significantly improves your chances.
- What does the CBR practical exam cost? →
- The CBR practical exam for category B costs approximately € 120 to € 130, depending on the type of exam. You pay this amount directly to the CBR; it is not included in a Rijschool Denhaag lesson package. Always check the current rates on cbr.nl, as they are adjusted annually.
- What is an interim assessment (TTT) and should I take one? →
- An interim assessment (TTT) is an official CBR evaluation halfway through your training, during which an examiner observes whether you are on track for the final exam. The TTT is not compulsory, but it gives you and your instructor an objective picture of your level. Rijschool Denhaag recommends the TTT if you are unsure about your progress or if your instructor advises it — it prevents surprises at the real exam.
- What is a health declaration and when do I need one? →
- A health declaration is a CBR form with which you demonstrate that you are medically fit to drive. For most students this is not required. You will need one if you have certain medical conditions (such as epilepsy, insulin-treated diabetes, or serious heart problems) or if you are over 75 years of age.
- I have ADHD or dyslexia — can I get extra facilities for the theory exam? →
- Yes, the CBR offers adjustments for candidates with ADHD, dyslexia or other recognised learning difficulties, such as extra time or a read-aloud option in the digital theory exam. You apply for this with the CBR using a statement from a recognised specialist. Bear in mind that the theory exam falls outside Rijschool Denhaag — we don't teach theory ourselves.
- I already have a motorcycle licence — do I have to start from scratch for a car licence? →
- A motorcycle or moped licence does not grant an exemption from the CBR practical exam for category B (car). You still need to take driving lessons and sit a separate exam. That said, you will find that traffic knowledge and a feel for road situations are already in place, which can reduce your average lesson count somewhat.
- How long does it typically take to get my licence, from start to exam? →
- On a standard schedule of one lesson per week, reckon on an average of 6 to 12 months from your first lesson to your practical exam. With an intensive or fast-track package at Rijschool Denhaag this can be reduced to a matter of weeks, depending on availability and your starting level. Also factor in the waiting time for an available exam date at the CBR.
- What do I need to bring to my CBR practical exam? →
- Bring: a valid identity document (passport or national identity card), your theory certificate if it has not yet been passed on digitally, and your health declaration if the CBR has requested one. Wear your glasses or contact lenses if you use them. Rijschool Denhaag always checks this before departure so you are not caught out at the exam centre in Rijswijk.
- How do I cancel a driving lesson and what are the terms? →
- You can cancel a lesson free of charge up to 24 hours before it starts — call or message +31 6 22114552 or send an email to info@rijschooldenhaag.nl. Cancellations within 24 hours or no-shows will be charged in full. Ill or an emergency? Get in touch straight away and we will work out a suitable solution together.