ADAS in the Theory Exam: What Changes From October 1, 2026?

The CBR (Dutch driving license authority) is updating the car theory exam. Starting April 1, 2026, questions on driver assistance systems (ADAS) were introduced, and starting October 1, 2026, the focus of those questions shifts. Here's what that means, both for candidates and for driving instructors.

What's already in the exam?

The current exam already includes questions on systems like cruise control and ABS. These questions mostly focus on dashboard symbols and how these systems contribute to fuel-efficient, environmentally conscious driving.

What changes on October 1?

From October 1, 2026, the focus moves beyond just recognizing symbols. The questions will center on how a driver actually handles these systems, meaning the desired driving behavior combined with properly managing driver assistance systems.

One thing to know: the number of exam questions stays the same. Candidates prepare the same way they always have, it's just worth checking that your study material is up to date.

Why this change?

More and more vehicles come equipped with driver assistance systems, and these systems are becoming increasingly important for safely controlling a vehicle. The CBR wants the theory exam to stay closely aligned with real-world driving, so the exam content is being adjusted accordingly.

What are the questions based on?

From October 1, the exam questions are based on three parts of Rijprocedure B (Driving Procedure B):

• The principles outlined in the Introduction to Rijprocedure B
• The guidelines in Chapter 1, under Rijhulpsystemen
• The guidelines in Chapter 2, under Rijhulpsystemen

For driving instructors

Any new topic added to the theory exam is always announced to publishers of study material three months in advance. This gives them time to update their materials, and gives candidates enough time to prepare properly. Nobody should be caught off guard in October.