Okay, you are ready to obtain your driving license. But first: the theory exam. Many people have no idea what to expect, which often causes stress. Don't worry – in this blog, we explain how it works: from your first appointment to the moment you find out whether you passed (or not 😬).

When and where?

You can take the theory exam from the age of 17. You cannot take it earlier, so if you are eager: book your appointment as soon as you turn 17. You will take the exam at an exam centre of your choice, in Flanders, Brussels, or Wallonia. You are completely free to do your practical exam somewhere else later. For example: theory in Ghent, practical in Leuven? No problem at all.

What do you need to bring?

Without the right documents, you will not be allowed into the exam centre. You definitely need your Belgian identity card – no copies! Have you lost your ID? Then you must bring an official proof of loss or theft. If you don't have a Belgian ID, you show your residence card. And if you are taking the exam for the third time? Then you need a certificate of 12 hours of theory lessons from an accredited driving school.

How does the exam proceed?

You will take the exam on a computer and get 50 multiple-choice questions, which are read out one by one. Once the reading is done, you have 15 seconds to answer. The questions are based on situations you encounter in real traffic – so it's not just about theory, but also about insight.

You start with 50 points. 45 questions concern minor infractions: a wrong answer costs you 1 point each time. Additionally, you will have 5 questions about serious infractions (3rd or 4th degree, or speed), where a mistake costs you 5 points. You pass if you achieve at least 41 points. You definitely do not pass if you:

• make 10 or more minor mistakes

• make 2 or more serious mistakes

• make 1 serious and more than 4 minor mistakes

And the reading test?

Did you pass? Then you immediately take a short reading test at the exam centre. It is really simple. If you don't pass, you need to have an eye examination done by an eye doctor. But in most cases, that's not necessary.

What if you passed?

Congratulations! You receive a theory certificate that remains valid for three years. You need that certificate to start your practical exam, so keep it safe.

What if you didn't pass?

No panic. You can just try again – but not on the same day, and also not at another centre. After two failed attempts, you must take 12 hours of theory lessons from an accredited driving school before you get a third chance. So good practice can save you a lot of time and money.

How much does it cost?

The theory exam costs €19. You pay that on site at the exam centre – usually with Bancontact (cash is generally not accepted).

Want to pass on your first attempt? Start with RAPP: free theory, realistic practice questions, exams, and tailored feedback. Be sure to check out our other blogs like "the toughest questions from the theory exam" and "difficult questions on the theory exam: Who has priority in a narrowed passage".