Theory exam car: what you need to know
The CBR theory exam is compulsory before you are allowed to take your practical exam. Below we explain how the exam is structured, what it costs and how to prepare. Please note: Rijschool Denhaag does not provide theory lessons itself.
Structure of the exam
The theory exam for category B (passenger car) consists of three components: hazard perception, knowledge of traffic rules and traffic insight. In total you are presented with 65 questions, spread across these components. The questions come in various formats — yes/no questions, multiple choice questions, open questions and traffic situation sketches.
The exam takes approximately 45 minutes and takes place at one of the CBR exam locations. Immediately after finishing you get around 15 more minutes while the system processes your result. If you pass, you receive a theory certificate. If you fail, you receive feedback per component so you know where you need to practise more.
Pass requirements
To pass you must score sufficiently on both components at the same time. For hazard perception you must answer at least 13 of the 25 questions correctly. For traffic rules and traffic insight combined you must get at least 35 of the 40 questions right. Falling just short on one component means failing — both must be sufficient.
This means you also need to practise the time-pressured hazard perception questions. These questions show videos or photos of traffic situations to which you must respond within 8 seconds. Practising under time pressure is crucial.
- Hazard perception: at least 13 of 25 correct
- Traffic rules + traffic insight: at least 35 of 40 correct
- Both components must be sufficient
- Result known immediately after finishing
Costs of the theory exam
The standard CBR theory exam for category B costs approximately € 35. If you want to take an individual exam (for example with an interpreter or adapted circumstances), that costs approximately € 70. A group exam in another language is also available for approximately € 40. Prices are adjusted by the CBR annually — always check cbr.nl for current rates.
Book your exam preferably directly through the CBR to avoid any administrative surcharges from intermediaries. Payment is made at the time of booking.
Exam in another language
The CBR offers the theory exam in Dutch as standard. For English and Turkish, group exams or individual exams are generally available. Check on cbr.nl which language options are offered at which location — this can vary by exam centre.
With an individual exam with an interpreter you get more time and personal guidance. This can be useful if Dutch is your second language and you want certainty about the translation of traffic terms.
Practical info: what to bring, cancelling, continuing
Bring a valid identity document to your theory exam — passport, Dutch identity card or driving licence. Without valid ID you are not allowed to take the exam and you will lose the registration fee. Arrive well in advance so you can check in calmly.
Cancelling or rescheduling is in principle possible up to one week before the exam date. If you cancel within that week you will lose the exam fee — just as with a no-show. So plan carefully for when you are sure you are ready.
- Valid ID required (passport, ID card or driving licence)
- Be present well before the start time
- Rescheduling: up to 1 week in advance
- No-show: costs are not refunded
How do you prepare? (we do not do this)
Rijschool Denhaag does not provide theory lessons itself. You acquire the theory through a separate theory course or by self-study. There are several options: accredited theory schools (such as ANWB Theorie or local theory schools), online courses with practice exams (for example via apps or websites), or self-study with an official textbook plus practice questions.
Most learners prepare for the theory exam for 2 to 4 weeks, depending on their learning pace and prior knowledge. We recommend having your theory certificate before you start practical lessons, or at the latest halfway through your practical programme. Without a theory certificate you cannot apply for a practical exam at the CBR.