How many times can you retake the driving exam? The AVT rule
There is no legal maximum to the number of times you may sit the CBR practical exam. But after failing three times a compulsory intermediate step applies: the Aanvullende Verkeers- en Taakbekwaamheidstraining, or AVT for short. This is not a punishment, but targeted support to understand why you keep getting stuck.
What is the AVT and when is it required?
The AVT (Aanvullende Verkeers- en Taakbekwaamheidstraining) is compulsory as soon as you have failed the CBR practical exam three times. Only after completing the AVT may you request a new exam at the CBR. The AVT is carried out by an approved provider and costs extra time and money on top of regular driving lessons and exam fees.
The AVT consists of a driving analysis, feedback on your specific weak points and additional practice. The aim is to establish what is structurally going wrong — whether it is driving skills, decision-making, exam anxiety or a combination. Some students find the AVT valuable in hindsight, precisely because it is so targeted.
If you fail a fourth or fifth time, a new compulsory AVT is required again after every third fail. The costs therefore mount up considerably. It is financially and practically wise to analyse very honestly what needs to change after failing twice.
Smart strategy after failing twice
At Rijschool Denhaag we advise students who have failed twice to stop repeating the same approach. A second opinion, a different instructor or a different method can make the difference before you take a third attempt. We openly discuss what the examiner's feedback said and build a targeted plan.
Emotionally, failing multiple times is hard. Doubt, embarrassment and frustration are normal. We take those feelings seriously and work through them — because getting a driving licence is truly necessary for many people for work, caring responsibilities or daily life. We don't teach theory ourselves, but for the practical lessons and the support we are fully here for you.
- After 3 fails: AVT compulsory before you may sit the exam again
- AVT focuses on your specific weak points
- Every additional exam attempt brings further costs
- After 2 fails: honest conversation and adjusted plan at Rijschool Denhaag
