Changes at the CBR test
From Monday, 7 April 2025, the CBR will be administering a new theory exam for the B driving license. The most significant change is that the new exam consists of 50 questions and is tested in one continuous whole.
After taking the exam, there is one result. If at least 44 questions are answered correctly within 30 minutes, the candidate has passed. The new exam has been developed at the same level and with the same content as the current exam. Candidates, therefore, do not have to prepare for other exam material. It remains essential to start preparing quickly and choose a suitable learning method.
The current exam consists of 65 questions divided over knowledge, insight, and hazard recognition, each with its own fail-pass threshold. These components are combined in the new exam, whereby the hazard recognition component in its current form (with photo test) is omitted. In this new form, it can be better tested whether the candidate has the necessary knowledge and insight into the traffic rules and can apply this in different traffic situations. Because the new exam contains fewer questions, the pass/fail threshold has been redefined. Scientists from the Research Center for Examination and Certification (RCEC) and representatives from the police, VVN, SWOV, OTCRij, and KRV were involved in determining this threshold and in developing the new exam. The established pass/fail threshold is comparable to that of the current exam, meaning the new exam is not easier or more difficult.
Same amount of time
The candidate is given 30 minutes to complete the exam. For a theory exam with extra time, an individually supervised theory exam, and a theory exam with an interpreter, the candidate is given 45 minutes. This is the same as the current theory exam for the B driving license.
Animation films
From April 7, several questions in the new exam will be provided with short animated films that provide realistic images of traffic situations. These videos test elements of hazard recognition, such as perception and prediction, where the candidate must indicate what is going to happen or how to act on it.
Current exam since 2019
The current theory exam B was introduced in 2019 and is taken approximately 750,000 times a year. Candidates are tested on the three separate components of hazard recognition (25 questions), knowledge (12 questions), and insight (28 questions) and must pass all three components to pass. This exam has been regularly adjusted since its introduction in response to changes in legislation and regulations. The images used have also been regularly adjusted to the current traffic situation. For example, moped drivers have been given a helmet since 1 January 2023, and speed pedelecs and fat bikes have been added to the street scene.