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Driving Lessons Haarlem: Your Expat-Friendly Driving School in Heemstede, Haarlem, Hoofddorp and the wider Bloemendaal area 

Are you an expat, international student, or non-Dutch speaker living in the Zuid-Kennemerland area? Getting your Dutch driver’s license (Rijbewijs B) can feel complicated, especially when dealing with a language barrier.

We make it simple. Rijcoach.com offers complete driving lesson packages conducted entirely in English.

Our certified, patient instructors specialize in helping international drivers navigate the CBR theory and practical exams with confidence. We provide clear, step-by-step coaching to ensure you not only pass your exam but become a safe and confident driver in the Netherlands.

Based in Heemstede, we proudly serve learners from Heemstede and Haarlem, Hoofddorp, and the wider Bloemendaal area — including Bennebroek, Vogelenzang, and Overveen. Whether you’re in Heemstede, Haarlem, Hoofddorp or anywhere in Zuid-Kennemerland, we’re here to help you drive with confidence.

➡️ [Book Your English Trial Lesson Now]


Why Choose Rijcoach.com for Your English Lessons?

We understand the unique challenges international drivers face. We don’t just teach you how to drive; we teach you how to master the Dutch way of driving and the specific requirements of the CBR exam.

  • Expert Bilingual Instructors: Our entire team is fluent in English and Dutch, with years of experience coaching international students. (Meer info: Meet our team)
  • CBR Exam Specialists: We have an in-depth understanding of the CBR practical exam and know exactly what the examiners are looking for.
  • Manual & Automatic: Choose the transmission that suits you best. We offer modern, fully-equipped manual (schakel) and automatic (automaat) cars.
  • Flexible Scheduling: We offer lessons during the day, in the evenings, and on weekends to fit your busy schedule.
  • Anxiety-Free Learning: Feeling nervous? We also specialize in helping drivers with anxiety (faalangst), ensuring a calm and supportive environment.

Our Service Area: Driving Lessons in Hoofddorp, Haarlem & More

We offer free pick-up and drop-off services for your English driving lessons across the Zuid-Kennemerland region (for Haarlem the pick-up location is Central Station). Our primary service areas include:

 

How to Get Your Dutch License in English: Our 4-Step Process

We guide you from your very first lesson to the moment you have your license in hand.

Step 1: Book Your Trial Lesson

Your journey starts with a 60-minute trial lesson (proefles). This is a no-obligation intake where you meet your instructor, get a feel for the car, and we assess your current driving level. Afterward, we’ll give you an honest estimate of how many lessons you’ll need.

Step 2: Pass the CBR Theory Exam (In English)

You must pass the theory exam first before you can take the practical exam.

  • Good news: The official CBR theory exam is available in English, and our course material as well.
  • How we help: We provide you with the best online resources, study materials, and practice exams, all in English, to ensure you pass the first time.
  • Meer info: Learn about the theory exam.

Step 3: Your Personal Practical Lesson Plan

Based on your trial lesson, we create a custom lesson plan. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced driver from another country, your instructor will focus on exactly what you need. We’ll cover everything from complex Dutch intersections and priority rules to the specific exam routes in Haarlem.

Step 4: The Interim Test & Final Practical Exam

We don’t just send you to the exam; we make sure you’re ready.

  1. Interim Test (Tussentijdse Toets): We recommend taking an interim test with a real CBR examiner. It’s the perfect way to practice and get official feedback. (Meer info: About the Interim Test).
  2. The Final Exam: Your Rijcoach instructor will be with you every step of the way. We’ll book your exam at the CBR in Haarlem and conduct your final lessons in the exam area. (Meer info: About the Practical Exam).


English Driving Lesson Packages & Pricing

We believe in full transparency. Our prices for English-language lessons are exactly the same as our Dutch lessons. You can choose a complete package or pay-as-you-go.

For a complete overview, please see our full price list.


What Our International Students Say

Highly recommend Rijcoach Haarlem for anyone looking to learn how to drive in the Netherlands! As an expat, I was a bit nervous at first, but the instructors were incredibly patient and supportive. They explained everything clearly in English, which made the whole process much easier. The lessons were fun, professional, and tailored to my needs. Thanks to their guidance, I passed my driving exam on the first try. I really appreciated the friendly atmosphere and the personalized attention. If you want a stress-free and effective driving school experience, Rijcoach is the way to go! – Lucy., Haarlem

 

As an expat in Haarlem, I was so nervous about the Dutch exam. My instructor at Rijcoach.com was fantastic. He spoke perfect English, was incredibly patient, and taught me all the tricky rules. I passed on my first try! Highly recommend. – Sarah D., Haarlem

See what all our students have to say on our Reviews Page.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for International Drivers

Q: Is the official CBR practical driving exam available in English?

A: Yes! If the examiner does not speak English, your certified Rijcoach instructor is allowed to be in the car with you and translate all instructions from the examiner into English. You will never be confused about what to do.

Q: I already have a license from my home country. Do I need to get a new one?

A: It depends. Many non-EU/EFTA licenses are valid for 185 days after you register in the Netherlands. After that, you must pass the Dutch theory and practical exams to get a Dutch license. Some “privileged” countries can exchange their license directly. We can advise you on your specific situation during your trial lesson.

Q: Do you also offer a refresher course in English?

A: Absolutely. If you already have a valid license but feel insecure driving in the Netherlands (especially with all the bikes!), our English refresher course is perfect for you.

Q: How many lessons will I need to pass the exam?

A: This is different for everyone. The Dutch national average is around 42 hours practicing. However, this will be much lower if you already have driving experience. After your 60-minute trial lesson, your instructor will give you a precise, personal estimate.

Q: Where is the CBR exam location?

A: For our service area, the practical exams are taken at the official CBR location in Haarlem. We are experts on all the local exam routes and will practice them with you extensively.

Q: How do I authorize your driving school for my exam?

A: You can easily authorize Rijcoach.com on the MijnCBR.nl website. We explain the full, simple process once you sign up. Our studentapp will give you detailed information what to do. (Rijschool Machtigen).


Ready to Become a Confident Driver in the Netherlands?

Don’t let the language barrier hold you back. We are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey.