Major Changes to Dutch Practical Driving Tests Throughout 2026

The practical driving examination in the Netherlands is undergoing substantial modifications throughout 2026, affecting everything from who can book appointments to what happens during the test itself. These changes aim to improve the examination process whilst adapting to capacity constraints.

Spring 2026: New Booking System Restrictions

Beginning in spring 2026, fundamental changes to the test booking system will transfer control from instructors to learners. Under the new regulations, only learner drivers themselves can book and manage their practical test appointments—instructors will no longer have this capability.

Additionally, each booking will be limited to two changes. Previously, multiple rescheduling was possible, but the new system restricts flexibility to reduce administrative burden on the CBR and discourage last-minute cancellations.

Implications of Learner-Only Booking

This shift creates several practical considerations for driving schools:

• Instructors must ensure learners understand the booking process before attempting it independently
• Schools need systems to track student booking status without direct access
• Communication becomes crucial to coordinate lessons around test dates
• Learners bear responsibility for managing their examination schedule

The two-change limit means learners must book strategically, accounting for potential scheduling conflicts whilst avoiding unnecessary modifications.

November 2026: Climate Control Requirements

From November 2026, all vehicles used for practical driving examinations must have functioning climate control systems. This requirement addresses examiner comfort and safety during extended testing periods, particularly during hot summer months or cold winter conditions.

Driving schools should audit their vehicle fleet to ensure compliance before the deadline. Older vehicles lacking adequate climate control may need replacement or upgrading, representing a potential capital investment for some schools.

Modified Test Structure and Content

The practical examination itself undergoes several structural changes designed to better reflect real-world driving:

Reduced Routine Stops

The number of routine stops decreases from four to three, streamlining the examination without compromising assessment quality.

Emergency Stop Frequency

Emergency stop demonstrations will now occur in approximately one of every seven tests (down from one in three). This change acknowledges that whilst emergency stops remain important, they need not feature in every examination.

Extended Independent Driving

Perhaps most significantly, independent driving time doubles from 10 to 20 minutes. During this extended period, learners navigate without turn-by-turn instructions, demonstrating their ability to read road signs, make appropriate route decisions, and drive autonomously.

The modified test structure better assesses a learner's readiness for independent driving by emphasising sustained, self-directed navigation.

Preparing Students for the New Format

Driving instructors should adapt their teaching to reflect examination changes:

• Incorporate longer independent driving exercises during lessons
• Emphasise sign recognition and route-finding skills
• Ensure learners understand the booking system before attempting it
• Practise various stop techniques without overemphasising emergency stops
• Help learners develop strategic thinking about test scheduling

Conclusion

The 2026 practical test modifications represent thoughtful adjustments to improve both the examination process and the assessment's validity. The extended independent driving period particularly benefits learner evaluation, whilst booking system changes demand greater learner responsibility. Driving schools that proactively prepare students for these changes—both in driving skills and administrative processes—will help ensure smooth transitions and successful examination outcomes