What does your driver's licence cost in 2026? The real picture
Getting your licence is an investment — but it doesn't have to be guesswork. What throws most learners off is the lack of clarity: a lesson here, an exam there, and a final bill that's higher than expected. In this article we break the total cost into understandable parts, so you can budget realistically up front and know where you stand.
The biggest expense: your driving lessons
By far the largest share of your budget goes to the lessons themselves. How many lessons you need varies from person to person, but with a complete package you know exactly where you stand in advance. At Rijschool Duwo we work with three clear packages, all including the practical exam:
- Package 1 — 20 driving lessons including the practical exam: €1,720 (about €69 per lesson hour).
- Package 2 — 30 driving lessons including the practical exam and a mid-term evaluation: €2,380 (about €68 per lesson hour). This is our most popular option.
- Package 3 — 40 driving lessons including the practical exam, with the most room to practise calmly: €3,020 (about €67 per lesson hour).
The more lesson hours you take in a single package, the lower the effective hourly rate. Not sure which package suits you? During the free trial lesson we estimate together how many lessons are realistic, so you don't buy too many or too few.
Learning theory: a small investment with a big payoff
Before you can take the practical exam, you first have to pass your theory exam. You can study with a good theory book or with online mock exams. You can study independently or take a theory course; the cost of that varies. The good news: with our free online practice tools you can already get a long way without paying anything.
The exams at the CBR
The theory and practical exams are administered by the CBR, the national examination authority. The CBR sets its own fees and they can change each year. For current exam costs and to book, always check cbr.nl — that way you're working with the right amounts. We register your practical exam on your behalf as soon as you're ready.
Tip
Don't budget only for the exam fee, but also account for a possible retake. Going into the exam relaxed and well prepared lowers the chance you'll need a resit — and that saves you money directly.
How to keep the costs down
- Deliberately choose the package that matches your level, so you buy neither too many nor too few lessons.
- Schedule your lessons regularly: weekly continuity means you remember more and need less repetition.
- Start learning theory early, so theory and practice reinforce each other.
- Practise for free with our online theory and traffic-sign tools before you sit the exam.
- Only book your exam once your instructor thinks you're ready — the right timing prevents unnecessary resits.
Curious which package suits you best? See the options and prices laid out clearly.