What to Expect During Your Dutch Driving Exam

The CBR practical driving exam in the Netherlands can be challenging, especially for internationals who are not familiar with Dutch road rules and driving culture. This guide will walk you through the entire process so you know exactly what to expect on exam day.

Before the Exam

Before your exam begins, the examiner will check your identity documents. Make sure to bring:

• Your valid ID or passport
• Your residence permit (if applicable)
• Your theory exam certificate (although not strictly required)
• Any medical declarations if required

The Pre-Drive Check

The examiner will ask a question or two about the car before driving. This could be things such as:

1. Checking the lights
2. Demonstrating how to check oil levels
3. Explaining how to check tire pressure
4. Which side to refill gas on
5. Explain the various metrics in drivers dashboard
6. How to open the hood
7. How to check the engine

During the Exam

The practical exam typically lasts about 50 minutes, with approximately 35-40 minutes of actual driving time. The examiner will ask you to:

• Drive in urban areas (30 zone)
• Drive in city area (50-80 zones)
• Drive on highways (if available in your area)
• Drive with navigation
• Perform special maneuvers

Special Maneuvers

You'll need to demonstrate at least two special maneuvers from this list:

• Parallel parking
• Reversing around a corner
• Three-point turn
• Nose in parking
• Back in parking
• 20 meters in reverse
• U-turn

Independent Driving

For about 15-20 minutes, you'll be asked to drive independently using road signs or by following the examiner's directions to reach a specific destination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many internationals fail their first exam due to these common mistakes:

1. Not checking blind spots - Dutch examiners are very strict about this
2. Incorrect priority at roundabouts - In the Netherlands, traffic on the roundabout has priority
3. Driving too slowly - Being too cautious can be seen as a lack of confidence. Keep a good flow.
4. Not adapting to traffic flow - You should match the speed of other vehicles when appropriate

After the Exam

Immediately after the exam, the examiner will tell you whether you've passed or failed. If you pass, you can apply for your Dutch driver's license at the municipality.

If you fail, the examiner will explain why and provide recommendations for improvement. You can schedule a new exam, but there's typically a waiting period of 1-2 months unless your driving school provides a faster option.

Tips for Success

• Practice driving in different weather conditions
• Familiarize yourself with the exam area
• Take at least one lesson right before the exam to warm up
• Rest well the night before
• Stay calm and focused during the exam

Remember that many internationals need more than one attempt to pass the Dutch driving exam, so don't be discouraged if you don't succeed on your first try.