CBR theory exam in English: how to book and prepare (2026) | HaalTheorie

CBR theory exam in English: complete guide for expats (2026)

The CBR theory exam is available in English at all exam locations in the Netherlands. You select English during booking via mijn.cbr.nl. The exam is identical to the Dutch version: 50 questions, 30 minutes, minimum score 44/50.

Summary

Language: select English at booking via mijn.cbr.nl. Available at all 21 CBR exam locations. Same exam: 50 questions, 30 min, pass mark 44/50 (88%). Cost: 50.50 euros per attempt. Health declaration required first. Theory certificate valid for 18 months.

Is the CBR theory exam available in English?

Yes. The CBR offers the theory exam (auto, categorie B) in multiple languages, including English. This applies to all exam locations across the Netherlands - from Amsterdam to Venlo, from Groningen to Goes. You do not need to find a special location for an English exam.

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Language selection happens at booking, not at the exam centre
You select English when booking your exam through mijn.cbr.nl. You cannot change the language on the day of the exam. Make sure to select the right language during the booking process.

How to book the CBR theory exam in English

1
Get your Health Declaration (Gezondheidsverklaring) first
Before you can book any theory exam, you need an approved Health Declaration. Apply via mijn.cbr.nl. Processing takes 4-6 weeks. Cost: 45.25 euros.
Required step - cannot be skipped
2
Log in to Mijn CBR
Go to mijn.cbr.nl and log in with DigiD. If you do not have DigiD yet, apply at your local municipality (gemeente). Alternatively, ask your driving school to book the exam for you.
3
Select English as your exam language
During the booking flow, you will be asked to choose your preferred language. Select English (Engels). The exam will then be presented entirely in English on the computer screen at the exam centre.
4
Choose your location and date
Select any of the 21 CBR exam locations. English exams are available at all locations. Choose a date and time that suits you.
Cost: 50.50 euros per attempt

What to expect on exam day

  • 50 questions - presented on a computer screen in English.
  • 30 minutes total - you manage your own time per question.
  • Animation questions - short video clips of traffic situations (since April 2025). These are also in English.
  • Pass mark: 44/50 - you may get at most 6 questions wrong.
  • Bring valid ID - passport or identity card. Expired ID means no exam.
  • Phone must be handed in at reception before entering the exam room.
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Important for expats
Dutch traffic rules apply in the Netherlands regardless of which language you take the exam in. Some concepts like voorrang van rechts (priority from the right) and haaientanden (shark teeth markings) are Dutch-specific. Make sure you study these concepts in whichever language you use to prepare.

Preparing for the English CBR theory exam

The exam tests Dutch traffic rules - not international ones. Even if you have held a driving licence in another country, Dutch rules on priority, road types and speed limits may differ from what you are used to.

  • Priority from the right (rechts voor links): at uncontrolled intersections, traffic from the right has priority unless signs say otherwise. This surprises many expats.
  • Shark teeth (haaientanden): triangular markings on the road surface mean you must give way to crossing traffic.
  • Speed limits by road type: 30 in residential areas (erf/woonerf), 50 in towns, 80 outside towns, 100 on motorways (autoweg) and 100-130 on motorways (autosnelweg).
  • Tram priority: trams have right of way at uncontrolled intersections - this is a common exam question.
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English CBR theory exam: key facts

  • Available in English at all 21 CBR locations
  • Select English during booking at mijn.cbr.nl
  • 50 questions, 30 minutes, pass mark 44/50
  • Cost: 50.50 euros per attempt
  • Health declaration required first (45.25 euros, 4-6 weeks processing)
  • Study Dutch traffic rules even if you prepare in English

Frequently asked questions

Can I do the CBR theory exam in English?
Yes, at all 21 CBR exam locations in the Netherlands. Select English during booking via mijn.cbr.nl.
How do I select English when booking?
Log in to mijn.cbr.nl with DigiD and select English as your language preference during the booking flow. You cannot change the language on exam day.
Is the English exam harder than the Dutch one?
No. Same 50 questions, same pass mark (44/50), same 30 minutes. The content is identical regardless of language.
Do I need DigiD to book?
DigiD is the standard method. If you do not have DigiD, your driving school can book on your behalf, though they may charge an extra fee.
What score do I need to pass?
44 out of 50 (88%). You may get at most 6 questions wrong.
Short answer

CBR theory exam in English: available at all locations. Select English at mijn.cbr.nl when booking. 50 questions, 44/50 to pass, 30 minutes, 50.50 euros.

Read more

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