The theory exam with an interpreter (theorie-examen met tolk)

The car theory exam exists in Dutch and English. In any other language, and for any other vehicle (motorcycle, moped), you take it with an interpreter. It works well if you book it right.

The three steps, in the right order

  1. 1Book the exam at the CBR first, choosing the product "theory exam with interpreter" (theorie-examen met tolk) — €118.50. Do this in Mijn CBR or through your school.
  2. 2

    Then book the interpreter through one of the CBR's contracted agencies, at least 14 days before the exam: thebigword, ELAN Languages, Mastertolken, Global Talk, Tolk2Go.

    • Choose the same product you booked at the CBR, or the interpreter is booked for too short a slot and the exam cannot go ahead.
    • You may not bring your own interpreter.
    • The agency's fee is paid to the agency: €238.00 per exam at the contracted agencies (their own pages; the CBR publishes no amount).
  3. 3

    On the day: a separate room with a CBR employee and your interpreter.

    • The employee reads each question and its answers, the interpreter translates, you click the answer yourself.
    • 45 minutes instead of 30.
    • If the interpreter does not show up, the CBR reschedules without a new exam fee.

Sources: CBR, interpreters at theory and practical exams, what is a theory exam with an interpreter, theory exam in another language, tariffs 2026; read 6 September 2026.

Two traps

  • Booking the interpreter late. Fewer than 14 days before the exam and the exam cannot take place. Book the exam date far enough out to leave room.
  • Some Dutch words are not translated. The CBR says you may see Dutch words in the exam that the interpreter does not translate. Learn the Dutch names of the signs and the traffic terms before the exam; the six the CBR keeps in Dutch even in the English exam are on the English exam page.

Which exams allow an interpreter?

  • Car (B): yes; or take it in English without one.
  • Motorcycle (A) and moped (AM): yes; there is no English version, so this is the route.
  • Truck and bus (C, D): yes, except the individually supervised exam; these also exist in English. The directiechauffeur exam allows neither.
  • Car with trailer (BE): no theory exam at all.

Sources: CBR, theory exam in another language, professional theory exams in another language; read 6 September 2026.

And the practical exam?

Different rules: a sworn interpreter or your own instructor may sit in the back and translate the examiner. Interpreter at the practical exam →

Facts read on the CBR pages on 6 September 2026. Guidance, not legal advice; the CBR pages linked above are the authority.