Dutch Car Theory Exam for Expats: Why It’s Harder Since April 2025 (Category B)

Introduction

Getting a Dutch driving licence as an expat is still far from easy in 2026. The CBR car theory exam for Category B was updated last year, and the impact of these changes is still felt by many candidates from other countries. The exam now tests how well you apply traffic rules in real situations, rather than how well you memorise them.

Each year, the CBR administers over a million theory exams. With the updated format, you have to handle everything at once, including traffic rules and hazard perception, all under time pressure. The goal seems clear: they want you to truly understand how Dutch traffic works, not just memorise information.

What changed in the CBR car theory exam?

The new exam now focuses more on real-life application. Instead of treating parts separately, it combines different skills in one flow — meaning you must interpret situations, apply rules and spot hazards quickly, without extra time to pause and think.

Source: CBR explanation about the car theory exam format — cbr.nl (FAQ)

Why the exam feels harder for expats

Everything is combined under time pressure

For expats, the biggest challenge is the mix. You can’t easily separate the parts in your head, so there’s less time to think. You’re expected to process rules, hazards and traffic situations at the same time — fast.

Dutch traffic rules can be unfamiliar

Dutch traffic logic can differ from what many people are used to, even if they have driven for years elsewhere. Common stumbling blocks include:

• priority at intersections
• cyclists’ right of way in many situations
• complicated lane setups and positioning

These differences can trip you up even if you are an experienced driver back home.

Language still matters, even in English

The exam is available in English, which helps, but the questions can be tricky because they test understanding, not just facts. A small mix-up in wording can mean losing points — and that seems to happen more often now that the exam is more insight-based.

Failing the exam is getting more expensive in 2026

Failing costs money, and now in 2026, each attempt costs €50.50. That increases the pressure to pass the first time, because paying again is not something most people want.

How to pass the Dutch car theory exam the first time

Most people fail not because they didn’t study, but because they didn’t focus on the Dutch way of seeing traffic. Effective preparation usually means:

• learning how Dutch scenarios typically play out
• practising questions that feel like the real exam
• building speed and accuracy under exam pressure

Common expat mistakes often involve priority rules, cyclists, and complex lane situations.

Theorie Snel Halen: English car theory preparation for expats

Theorie Snel Halen helps you prepare specifically for the CBR exam, so you understand Dutch traffic better and pass on the first go. They offer an English course that covers rules, insight and hazard perception together.

Theory in 1 Day (English day course)

This course is ideal if you want clear explanations in English, with examples and practice questions. It is structured without being overwhelming, and helps you build confidence quickly.

English online course (app)

There is also an online app with video lessons, practice questions and mock exams you can do anywhere. Combining it with the day course can give you extra practice and repetition.

Discount code and prices

With costs rising in 2026, preparing properly can help you avoid extra fees.

Free practice test: check your level first

If you want to check how ready you are, you can take a free practice test with real exam-style questions. That helps you see what you need to improve before signing up.

Conclusion

Overall, it’s worth focusing on the specifics of Dutch traffic logic to avoid failing. Once you pass, driving in the Netherlands gets a lot easier.