English-Speaking Driving School in Haarlem
Direct Overview for Expats
Rijcoach is an officially CBR-recognised driving school in Haarlem (school number 5420U4) specialising in English-speaking driving lessons for expats, international students and residents. We offer manual, automatic and combi driving lessons with a dedicated English-speaking instructor, full 60-minute lessons and pick-up in Haarlem, Heemstede and Hoofddorp.
1. How driving lessons work in the Netherlands
Navigating the Dutch driving system as an expat can feel overwhelming. In the Netherlands, all driving exams are governed by the CBR (Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing). Here is the step-by-step roadmap to getting your Dutch driver's licence (Rijbewijs B):
Start with a 60-minute trial lesson. Your coach assesses your skill level and gives a realistic estimate of the number of lessons required.
Log in to mijn.cbr.nl with your DigiD and authorise Rijcoach using school number 5420U4.
Pass the 50-question CBR theory test in English and submit your online Health Declaration (Gezondheidsverklaring).
Take your 55-minute practical exam at CBR Haarlem (Professor Eijkmanlaan 2-4) in the same dual-control car you trained in.
2. Manual, automatic or combi lessons
Choosing the right transmission type helps you pass faster and more comfortably:
3. Exchanging a foreign driving licence in the Netherlands
Are you living in the Netherlands with a foreign driver's licence? Here is what you need to know:
The 185-Day Rule & 30% Ruling:
· EU/EEA Licences: Can generally be exchanged directly at your local municipality (Gemeente Haarlem, Heemstede or Haarlemmermeer).
· 30% Tax Ruling Recipients: Highly skilled expats holding a 30% ruling can exchange any valid foreign driving licence directly, regardless of country of origin.
· Non-EU/EEA Licences: You can drive for 185 days after registering in the BRP. Afterwards, you must pass the CBR theory and practical exams to get a Dutch licence.
If you already have driving experience from abroad, you do not need 40+ lessons. We focus directly on CBR examination standards (active scanning, cyclist awareness, Dutch roundabout rules). Test your status with our Licence Exchange Checker.
Frequently asked questions by expats in Haarlem
Are driving lessons available fully in English in Haarlem?
Yes. Rijcoach provides driving lessons fully in English with patient, fluent English-speaking instructors in Haarlem, Heemstede and Hoofddorp.
Can I take the Dutch CBR theory exam in English?
Yes. The CBR offers the car theory exam in English. It consists of 50 questions (30 minutes) and can be booked at CBR Haarlem. We provide full English online study materials.
How does foreign licence exchange work for expats in the Netherlands?
EU/EEA licences can usually be exchanged directly at your municipality. Non-EU/EEA licence holders generally have 185 days to drive with their foreign licence, after which they must pass the CBR exams (unless eligible under the 30% ruling).
What is included in a 60-minute trial lesson?
During the 60-minute trial lesson, your English-speaking coach picks you up, assesses your driving skills, explains the CBR requirements, and provides a clear recommendation for the best lesson package.
Can I pay for my driving package in installments?
Yes. All complete driving packages at Rijcoach can be paid in 3 equal monthly installments without any interest or hidden administration fees.
60-Min Trial Lesson
Test your coach and vehicle. Trial lesson costs €47 (FREE when you choose a package).
Dedicated English-speaking coach
Rijcoach guarantees one dedicated, fluent English coach throughout your entire training.
- Fluent English: Clear explanations of Dutch priority rules & roundabouts.
- Tailored Coaching: Instructors adapt to your prior driving background.
- No Language Barrier: Feel 100% comfortable asking questions.
Official CBR Information
Free Home Pick-up
We pick you up from your doorstep, train station or workplace in:
Ready to start driving in Haarlem?
Book a 60-minute trial lesson with an English-speaking coach. Costs €47 standalone, and completely FREE when you book a lesson package.