Failed the CBR theory exam? How to retake it and pass next time
You can retake the CBR theory exam straight away: there is no compulsory waiting period and no limit to the number of attempts. Each attempt costs the same, €57,00 in English. Before you book again, find out why you failed and practise full timed exams until you pass them comfortably several times in a row.
You are not alone
In 2025, 40.0% of all car theory exams ended in a pass, first attempts and retakes together, and 37.5% of the standard English exams. Failing is common; what matters is what you change before the next attempt.
Step 1: find out why
| Likely cause | What helps |
|---|---|
| You did not know some rules | Go back to the topics, starting with priority, cyclists and road signs. |
| You ran out of time | Practise full exams of 50 questions in 30 minutes; consider the exam with extra time. |
| You misread questions | Read every question to the end; watch for words like 'not' and 'always'. |
| Animation questions went wrong | Practise moving situations, not only photos. |
Step 2: book again
Book a new exam in Mijn CBR. There is no waiting period and no maximum number of attempts; the cost is the same each time. Give yourself enough time to fix what went wrong, usually one to three weeks. How booking works: booking the CBR theory exam in English.
Step 3: practise until you pass comfortably
Book only when you pass full timed practice exams comfortably several times in a row, not just once. A plan: how to pass the CBR theory exam. The moving questions: animation questions explained.
A course with a pass guarantee means a failed exam does not cost you a new course as well. What each guarantee promises: English courses with a pass guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
How soon can I retake the CBR theory exam?
There is no compulsory waiting period: you can book a new exam straight away in Mijn CBR. In practice the first free slot depends on the location.
How much does a retake cost?
The same as the first attempt: €57,00 in English, €50,50 in Dutch.
Is there a limit to the number of attempts?
No. You can take the theory exam as often as you need.
How long is my theory result valid once I pass?
1.5 years. Within that time you need to pass the practical exam, or take the theory exam again.
Sources, checked on 3 November 2026:
Written by Nawfal Serraji, traffic law specialist and founder of HaalTheorie.