Dutch Driving License 2026 | How to Get Your Rijbewijs in the Netherlands
Complete guide to obtaining your Dutch driving license (rijbewijs), from CBR registration to passing theory and practical exams. Everything you need to know about driving in the Netherlands.
Getting your Dutch driving license (rijbewijs) involves a well-structured process managed by the CBR (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheidsbewijzen). Whether you're a Dutch resident, expat, or international student, this guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining your rijbewijs in 2025.
Understand Dutch License Categories
The Netherlands uses EU-standardized license categories:
- Category B: Cars up to 3,500 kg with max 9 seats - Minimum age 18 (17 for 2toDrive)
- Category A: Motorcycles (unlimited) - Minimum age 24 (or 20 with 2 years A2)
- Category AM: Mopeds/scooters up to 45 km/h - Minimum age 16
- 2toDrive (2RM): Accompanied driving from age 17
- Automatic (B automaat): Restriction code 78 if tested on automatic only
Choose a Driving School (Rijschool)
While not legally mandatory, most learners use driving schools:
- Compare prices and reviews - typical packages €2,000-€3,500
- Check if the school has CBR approval
- Ask about pass rates (landelijk gemiddelde around 50%)
- Verify instructor qualifications and teaching style
- Online theory courses available from many schools
- Some schools offer "slagen of je geld terug" guarantees
Pass the Theory Exam (Theorie-examen)
The CBR theory test covers Dutch traffic rules and hazard perception:
- 65 questions total: 25 hazard perception, 40 knowledge questions
- Must score at least 35/40 on knowledge, 13/25 on hazard perception
- Test cost: €41.50 (2025 rate)
- Booking through Mijn CBR portal
- Available in Dutch, English, German, and Turkish
- Valid for 1.5 years after passing
Take Driving Lessons (Rijlessen)
Practical training prepares you for the rijexamen:
- No minimum hours required by law (unlike some countries)
- Average: 35-45 lessons to reach exam standard
- Lesson cost: €45-€65 per hour depending on region
- Includes: city driving, highway (snelweg), rural roads
- Mock exams (proefexamen) recommended before booking real test
- Intensive courses available for faster completion
Pass the Practical Exam (Praktijkexamen)
The final driving test with a CBR examiner:
- 55 minutes total exam duration
- Test fee: €122.00 (2025 rate)
- Assessment: vehicle control, traffic participation, independent driving
- Special maneuvers: parking, turning, emergency stop
- Routes vary - examiner selects from approved routes
- Results: geslaagd (passed) or niet geslaagd (failed)
Obtain Your License Card
After passing, collect your physical rijbewijs:
- Apply at your municipality (gemeente) within 18 months of passing
- Bring: passport/ID, passport photo, proof of passing exams
- Cost: approximately €44 (varies by municipality)
- Collect within 3 months of application
- License valid for 10 years
- Beginner drivers: no alcohol limit for first 5 years (vs. 0.5‰ normally)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Dutch driving test in English?▼
Yes! The theory exam is available in English (as well as German and Turkish). The practical exam can also be conducted in English - just request this when booking through your driving school or Mijn CBR.
How much does a Dutch driving license cost in total?▼
Expect €2,500-€4,000 total including: driving lessons (€1,800-€2,800), theory exam (€41.50), practical exam (€122), and license card (~€44). Costs vary by region - Randstad cities tend to be pricier.
Can I exchange my foreign license for a Dutch one?▼
EU/EEA licenses can be used indefinitely and exchanged easily. Non-EU licenses: you have 185 days after registration, then must exchange (if eligible) or take Dutch exams. The Netherlands has exchange agreements with about 40 countries.
What is 2toDrive (2RM)?▼
2toDrive lets 17-year-olds get their license and drive accompanied until age 18. Requirements: approved coach (minimum 10 years licensed, over 27 years old), special insurance, "L" sign on vehicle. After 18, you can drive solo.
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