English theory course: online or a one-day course?
There are two common ways to prepare for the Dutch CBR theory exam in English. A one-day course takes you through the material in a single day, often with the CBR exam arranged straight after; these cost about €99, plus the CBR exam fee of €57,00. An online course lets you study at your own pace over days or weeks, for about €25 to €90 depending on how long you have access. Which suits you depends on your deadline, your budget and how you learn best.
The two options side by side
| One-day course | Online course | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | A teacher takes you through the material in one day, in a classroom or live online. | You learn and practise on your own, on your phone or computer. |
| Time | One day, often with the exam the same day or soon after. | Spread over days or weeks, at your own pace. |
| Course price | about €99 | about €25 to €90 |
| CBR exam fee | €57,00 on top | €57,00 on top |
| Suits you if | you have a deadline and learn best from a teacher. | you want to fit it around work or go at your own pace. |
Prices are those of English-language providers we checked on 6 October 2026. Some offer a two-day classroom course for more, and some apps sell access per day or week.
What to check before you pay
- Is it built for the exam as it is now? Since 7 April 2025 the exam has 50 questions in one part, with short animations in some questions instead of a separate hazard perception section. Material written for the old three-part exam is out of date.
- Does it use the CBR's English terms? The CBR keeps a few Dutch words on the English exam, such as 'autoweg' and 'erf'. A course that translates them differently teaches you words you will not see on the exam.
- Do the practice exams match the real one? Look for full 50-question practice exams with the 30-minute limit.
- What does the pass guarantee promise? Some providers refund the course, others let you keep practising or include a resit. Read the conditions.
- How long do you get access? Online prices depend on it, from a single day to three months.
Is a one-day course enough?
For many people it is, especially if you have driven before and already know most of the rules. If you are new to driving or to Dutch traffic, a single day is a lot to take in, and spreading your study over a few weeks gives the rules time to settle. With 40.0% of theory exams passed in 2025, preparation makes a real difference.
Where HaalTheorie fits
Our own course, ExamenKlaar Deluxe, is in Dutch today. An English version is on its way. We wrote this guide to help you choose, whichever provider you go with.
Before you book a course, it helps to know how the exam and the booking work: CBR theory exam in English and How to book the CBR theory exam in English.
Frequently asked questions
Is a one-day course in English enough to pass?
For many people it is, especially if they have driven before. If you are new to driving or to Dutch traffic, spreading your study over a few weeks gives the rules more time to sink in.
How much does an English theory course cost?
About €99 for a one-day classroom course and about €25 to €90 for an online course, depending on how long you have access. The CBR exam costs €57,00 on top.
Can I take the CBR exam on the same day as a one-day course?
Many one-day courses arrange the exam for you straight after the course day. Check this with the provider before you book.
What is the pass rate of the theory exam?
In 2025, 40.0% of all car theory exams were passed, first attempts and retakes together, according to the CBR's annual report.
Sources, checked on 6 October 2026:
- CBR: Vernieuwd theorie-examen B-rijbewijs vanaf 7 april
- CBR: Kan ik het theorie-examen in een andere taal doen?
- CBR: Jaarverslag 2025
Written by Nawfal Serraji, traffic law specialist and founder of HaalTheorie.