The CBR practical exam, explained in English.
The Dutch CBR car practical exam lasts about 55 minutes in total, of which you drive roughly 35 minutes — partly independently using a navigation system. The examiner assesses your vehicle control, traffic insight and two special manoeuvres. In our region you take it at CBR Haarlem (Professor Eijkmanlaan 2-4). With Rijcoach you practise the real exam routes beforehand — 61% of our learners pass first time (CBR, H1 2026).
~55 minutes
About 35 minutes of actual driving.
Real routes
We rehearse the CBR Haarlem exam routes.
61% first time
First-time pass rate at Rijcoach (CBR, H1 2026).
What the examiner assesses
There is no points system — the examiner judges whether you can drive safely and independently. It's an overall picture of your driving across the whole route.
- Vehicle control: steering, gears, speed and positioning
- Observation and anticipating other road users
- Right of way, speed and correct use of traffic rules
- Driving a route independently and making decisions
- Performing the two special manoeuvres safely
Nervous about the exam? See our test-anxiety coaching, or get your theory exam sorted first.
“If you already know the routes, exam day feels like just another lesson.”
Questions
How long does the practical exam take?+
About 55 minutes in total. You drive for roughly 35 minutes; the rest is for the welcome, instructions, eyesight test and vehicle checks.
How many special manoeuvres do I have to do?+
Two during the exam — for example parallel or bay parking, turning around or a hill start. The examiner decides which ones.
What is the interim test (tussentijdse toets)?+
A practice exam halfway through your training with a real CBR examiner (~55 minutes), with feedback afterwards. If you pass the manoeuvres, you don't have to repeat them at the real exam. It raises your pass chance.
Can I take the practical exam in English?+
Your lessons and preparation are fully in English. The CBR exam itself is conducted in Dutch, but the instructions are simple and we rehearse exactly what to expect, so language is never the obstacle.
What do I need to bring?+
A valid ID and a valid theory certificate. Without valid theory you cannot take the practical exam. We provide the instructor and exam car.
Where do I take the exam near Haarlem?+
At CBR Haarlem, Professor Eijkmanlaan 2-4 (2035 XB). We practise the exam routes around this centre every day.
Get exam-ready with one fixed coach
Book a no-pressure trial lesson — or call 06 22 52 70 70.