Car licence (B)
Getting a Dutch driving licence: steps and costs
From theory to licence card in six steps, with the ages and the CBR fees at a glance.
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The steps
- Theory exam, from 16. It costs €50.50 in 2026 and €52.20 in 2027. A pass is valid for 1.5 years. See the theory exam.
- Driving lessons, from 16 and a half.
- An interim test is allowed from 16 and a half too. It costs €143.50 in 2026 and €148.45 in 2027. It is a practice exam with the CBR.
- Under 18? Apply to the RDW for a coach pass (begeleiderspas). Your coaches must first register with the RDW.
- Practical exam, from 17. You need a valid theory pass and a health declaration. The exam costs €143.50 in 2026 and €148.45 in 2027.
- Passed? Apply for your licence at your town hall (gemeente).
CBR fees
| Theory exam | €50.50, from 2027 €52.20 |
|---|---|
| Interim test | €143.50, from 2027 €148.45 |
| Car practical exam | €143.50, from 2027 €148.45 |
The 2027 fees apply from 1 January 2027.
What does it cost in total?
According to a CBR survey, a car licence cost an average of €3,625 in the first half of 2026, with an average of 42.5 hours of lessons. More under cost and booking.
Once you have it
- Under 18, you may only drive with a coach. Always carry your coach pass.
- If your car licence is your first licence, you are a new driver for 5 years. Your alcohol limit is then 0.2 per mille. See alcohol for new drivers.
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