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Dutch driving theory

Study the Netherlands driving theory with confidence

Learn Dutch driving theory through clear lessons, simple rule explanations, and a complete library of road signs in English. Every topic is organised for real learners in Netherlands, covering priority rules, speed limits, intersections, and safe driving behaviour. Search any subject or follow the learning path to understand everything with clarity.

Our learning purpose and mission

A complete platform for the Netherlands driving theory

Understand the full set of Dutch traffic rules with structured and easy to follow learning.

This platform helps new and future drivers in Netherlands study the Dutch driving theory through clear lessons and organised units. All content is focused on real world traffic situations and the rules that learners must understand before taking an official driving theory test in the Netherlands. You will find clear guidance, detailed explanations, and reliable interpretations of traffic rules, signs, behaviour, and safe driving principles.

Essential tools for Dutch driving theory

Everything you need to learn the Dutch driving theory

Discover the key tools that help you learn the Dutch driving theory with clarity. Each feature supports real learners in Netherlands with structured guidance, complete road sign information, simple rule explanations, and fast access to every topic. Everything is designed to help you understand the official driving theory requirements in the Netherlands quickly and confidently.

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Structured Dutch learning paths

Well organised Dutch driving theory courses

Study every required topic through organised units and lessons designed for learners in the Netherlands. Each curriculum provides a clear path through Dutch traffic rules, safe driving behaviour, essential concepts, and all sign categories important for future drivers.

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Complete Guide to the Dutch Driving Theory Test (Category B)

Prepare effectively for the Dutch Category B (car) driving theory test with this structured curriculum. This course provides in-depth knowledge of all essential topics, including traffic regulations, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices in the Netherlands. You will learn to interpret complex traffic situations, understand vehicle requirements, and recognize the responsibilities of a safe driver, ensuring you are fully equipped to succeed in your CBR theory exam and drive safely on Dutch roads.

12 units48 lessons
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Recommended units to start with

Start with the most essential Dutch driving theory topics, including priority rules, speed regulations, following distances, traffic behaviour, road signs, and common learning difficulties. These units help you build a strong foundation for understanding how driving works in Netherlands.

Image for the Vehicle Positioning and Lane Use learning unit

Vehicle Positioning and Lane Use

This unit focuses on 'plaats op de weg,' the Dutch principle of correct road positioning. You will learn the fundamental rule of keeping to the right as much as possible, as well as the proper procedures for changing lanes, overtaking, and merging. The lessons cover how to position your vehicle when turning (pre-sorting), the rules for using special lanes like bus and rush-hour lanes, and maintaining a safe position within your lane. Proper positioning is essential for traffic flow, safety, and clear communication with other drivers.

Dutch Driving Theory B
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Infrastructure and Special Roads

This unit explores the specific rules and driving procedures for various elements of the Dutch road network. You will learn to distinguish between an 'autosnelweg' and an 'autoweg' and understand the different regulations that apply to each. The lessons cover how to navigate features like tunnels, bridges, and level crossings safely. Additionally, the unit explains the meaning of electronic matrix signs above the road and the rules for special lanes such as the 'spitsstrook' (rush-hour lane).

Dutch Driving Theory B
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Towing, Trailers, and Loads

This unit provides essential information for drivers who need to tow a trailer or caravan. You will learn the specific rules for what you can tow with a standard Category B car license, which depends on the weight of the trailer and the towing vehicle. The lessons cover legal requirements such as breakaway cables and functioning trailer lights. Additionally, the unit addresses the practical aspects of driving with a trailer, including the importance of properly securing loads and adjusting driving style to account for the increased length and weight.

Dutch Driving Theory B
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Image for the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents learning unit

Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents

This final unit prepares you for the unexpected by outlining the correct procedures for handling emergencies on the road. You will learn the steps to take if your vehicle breaks down, including how to safely stop on the hard shoulder and make yourself visible to other traffic. The lessons cover the actions required at the scene of an accident, from securing the area and calling emergency services to administering basic first aid. Understanding these protocols is crucial for ensuring your own safety and helping others in a time of crisis.

Dutch Driving Theory B
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Lighting, Visibility, and Weather Conditions

This unit covers the regulations and best practices for using vehicle lights to ensure you can see and be seen. You will learn when to use different types of lights, such as dipped beams, main beams, and fog lights, based on visibility and time of day. The curriculum also provides essential guidance for driving safely in challenging weather conditions like heavy rain, dense fog, and snow. Proper use of lighting and adapting to poor visibility are fundamental aspects of road safety.

Dutch Driving Theory B
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Vulnerable Road Users

This unit is dedicated to the interactions between car drivers and more vulnerable road users. Dutch roads have a high volume of cyclists and pedestrians, and ensuring their safety is a primary responsibility of every driver. You will learn the specific rules and best practices for dealing with pedestrians at crossings, cyclists in dedicated lanes and on the road, and children or elderly people who may behave unpredictably. The core theme is exercising increased caution and anticipating the actions of those more at risk in traffic.

Dutch Driving Theory B
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Full Dutch road sign library

Complete Dutch road sign explanations

Learn the full set of traffic signs used in Netherlands, including warning signs, priority signs, regulatory signs, speed limit signs, lane direction signs, and special conditions. Each sign includes meaning, a clear definition, correct behaviour, and actions you must avoid. Designed for learners who want complete clarity before taking their official driving theory exam in the Netherlands.

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Maximum Speed

Maximum Speed (A1) Sign: Know Your Limits on Dutch Roads

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End of Maximum Speed

The A2 sign signals the end of a previously posted maximum speed limit.

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Maximum Speed on Electronic Signal Board

Dynamic Speed Limits: Obey the Electronic Signal Board!

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Recommended Speed

The A4 Recommended Speed sign advises a safe speed for current road conditions.

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End of Recommended Speed

The A5 sign signals the end of the recommended speed, meaning normal rules apply again.

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Priority Road

The B1 Priority Road sign means you have the right of way.

Driving theory articles and tips

Latest driving theory guides and articles

Read focused articles that explain difficult Dutch traffic rules, complex road situations, and important concepts for new drivers in the Netherlands. These short guides offer clear and practical explanations that help you understand the logic behind the rules before the exam.

Article image for Losing Your Licence: Serious Violations and CBR Consequences

Losing Your Licence: Serious Violations and CBR Consequences

This article explains the serious traffic violations in the Netherlands that can result in immediate licence suspension or severe penalties, as handled by the CJIB. Gaining this knowledge is vital for your CBR theory exam, as it highlights critical driving behaviours and their legal ramifications. It ensures you are fully aware of the consequences of major offenses, preparing you for scenarios that test your understanding of Dutch traffic law and road safety.

Driving Law, Penalties, and Enforcement
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Article image for Understanding Road Camber: How Road Tilt Affects Driving Safety in the Netherlands

Understanding Road Camber: How Road Tilt Affects Driving Safety in the Netherlands

Learn how the subtle tilt of Dutch roads, known as camber, plays a significant role in your driving experience and safety. This article breaks down how road camber affects vehicle handling, particularly when cornering and in adverse weather, and why understanding this phenomenon is important for passing your Dutch driving theory test.

Driving Conditions and Environments
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Article image for Dutch Traffic Fines & Penalty Points: What You Need to Know

Dutch Traffic Fines & Penalty Points: What You Need to Know

Navigate the complexities of traffic fines and the penalty point system in the Netherlands with this essential guide. Learn how violations translate into penalty points, what the critical 'one penalty point' rule means for your licence, and how the CJIB handles enforcement. This knowledge is key to safe driving and succeeding in your Dutch theory exam.

Driving Law, Penalties, and Enforcement
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Article image for CBR Theory: Distinguishing Warning Signs from Mandatory Signs in the Netherlands

CBR Theory: Distinguishing Warning Signs from Mandatory Signs in the Netherlands

Navigate the complexities of Dutch traffic signs by clearly distinguishing between triangular warning signs and round mandatory signs. This article explains the specific shapes, colours, and behavioural implications of each type, directly addressing a common pitfall tested in the CBR theory exam. Understanding this fundamental difference is crucial for safe driving and exam success in the Netherlands.

Traffic Signs and Road Markings
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Article image for Passing Places on Narrow Dutch Roads: Rules and Priority

Passing Places on Narrow Dutch Roads: Rules and Priority

Learn the essential rules for navigating narrow roads in the Netherlands, including when and how to use passing places. This article clarifies priority situations, such as yielding to uphill traffic and providing space for cyclists and pedestrians, equipping you with the knowledge needed for safe driving and success in your CBR theory exam.

Priority, Right of Way, and Interactions
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Article image for CBR Exam Focus: Approaching Blind Intersections Safely in the Netherlands

CBR Exam Focus: Approaching Blind Intersections Safely in the Netherlands

Learn critical techniques for approaching junctions where visibility is poor, a common challenge in the Netherlands and a key focus for the CBR theory exam. This guide details how to enhance your observation, control your speed effectively, and correctly apply Dutch priority rules when encountering unexpected road users, such as cyclists obscured by vegetation or hidden from view.

Driving Rules and Regulations
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Article image for Navigating Hidden Junctions: Prioritising Safety in Low Visibility

Navigating Hidden Junctions: Prioritising Safety in Low Visibility

When visibility is poor at junctions, drivers must adopt specific behaviours to ensure safety and comply with Dutch traffic laws. This article explains why reducing speed, performing thorough observations, and being prepared to stop are paramount. Mastering these anticipation techniques is vital for success in the CBR theory exam and for preventing dangerous situations on the road.

Safety, Awareness, and Risk Management
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Article image for Anticipation and Defensive Driving: Key to Dutch Road Safety

Anticipation and Defensive Driving: Key to Dutch Road Safety

Learn how anticipation and defensive driving are fundamental to safe road use in the Netherlands, directly impacting your CBR theory exam performance. This guide delves into understanding and predicting the actions of other road users, helping you navigate complex traffic situations and avoid potential hazards with confidence.

Safety, Awareness, and Risk Management
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Article image for Cooperative Driving with Cyclists and Motorcyclists in NL

Cooperative Driving with Cyclists and Motorcyclists in NL

Learn how to navigate the Netherlands' busy roads safely by understanding cooperative driving techniques essential for interacting with cyclists and motorcyclists. This guide covers key behaviours, including how to pass safely and the importance of shoulder checking, preparing you for both your theory exam and real-world driving.

Road Users and Shared Road Safety
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Article image for Zipper Merging and Lane Discipline: Dutch Road Etiquette

Zipper Merging and Lane Discipline: Dutch Road Etiquette

Learn the critical principles of lane discipline and zipper merging as applied in the Netherlands, vital for both safe driving and the CBR theory exam. This guide explains how adhering to the 'keep to the right' rule and adopting cooperative merging techniques helps maintain traffic flow and prevent dangerous situations.

Driving Behaviour and Best Practices
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Article image for Understanding Non-Binding Traffic Signs: Advisory Lane Guidance in the Netherlands

Understanding Non-Binding Traffic Signs: Advisory Lane Guidance in the Netherlands

Navigating Dutch roads requires understanding various traffic signs, including those that offer advice rather than impose strict rules. This article focuses on advisory lane guidance signs, explaining their purpose and crucially, why they are non-binding. Mastering this distinction is essential for safe driving and for successfully passing your CBR theory exam, where accurately assessing driver obligation is key.

Traffic Signs and Road Markings
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Article image for Social Driving in the Netherlands: Beyond the Rules

Social Driving in the Netherlands: Beyond the Rules

While the Dutch theory exam covers traffic laws, safe driving also hinges on attitude and anticipation. This article delves into the core principles of social and cooperative driving, as outlined by the 'Kapstokartikel,' explaining how being considerate and proactive enhances road safety and traffic flow in the Netherlands. Prepare for your exam by understanding the nuances of defensive driving and helpful road behaviour.

Driving Behaviour and Best Practices
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Article image for Advisory Lane Arrows vs. Mandatory Lane Signs: What's the Difference?

Advisory Lane Arrows vs. Mandatory Lane Signs: What's the Difference?

On Dutch roads, distinguishing between lane signs that advise and those that mandate is crucial for compliant driving and passing your CBR theory exam. This article breaks down what advisory lane arrows and mandatory lane signs legally require, helping you navigate complex intersections and junctions with confidence and accuracy.

Traffic Signs and Road Markings
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Article image for CBR Hazard Perception: When to Slow Down Even Without Immediate Danger

CBR Hazard Perception: When to Slow Down Even Without Immediate Danger

The CBR hazard perception test requires more than just reacting to immediate threats; it assesses your ability to anticipate and prepare for potential risks. This article explains specific situations, such as approaching bends or pedestrian crossings, where the Dutch traffic rules mandate a reduction in speed, regardless of whether danger is currently visible. Mastering these principles is key to demonstrating safe driving behaviour and passing your theory exam.

Speeds, Distance, and Vehicle Control
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Article image for Railway Barriers: When and How Far Must You Stop? CBR Rules Explained

Railway Barriers: When and How Far Must You Stop? CBR Rules Explained

Learn precisely when and how far you must stop when approaching railway barriers in the Netherlands, a key topic for your CBR theory exam. This article details the legal requirements, focusing on the significance of flashing red lights and red flags as stop signals, ensuring you drive safely and correctly at level crossings.

Driving Rules and Regulations
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How our learning system works

Learn the Dutch driving theory in a simple and clear way

A structured method that helps you understand the rules of Netherlands faster.

Study through a clean curriculum divided into easy lessons, supported by accurate definitions and practical examples. Every unit explains the logic behind the rules and shows how they apply in real situations on the roads of Netherlands. This approach helps learners understand the driving theory deeply so they feel prepared and confident when facing the official requirements in the Netherlands.