Obtain the Category BE Driving Licence for Heavier Trailers

If you hold a Category B driving licence in the Netherlands and aim to drive a passenger car with heavier trailer combinations, you will need to upgrade to the Category BE entitlement. This upgrade involves passing a specific practical exam administered by the Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheidsbewijzen (CBR). Once you successfully pass this exam, you must apply to your local municipality (gemeente) to receive an updated driving licence card that officially includes your new BE category. This guide walks you through the entire process, from understanding the requirements to collecting your updated licence.

What is the Category BE Driving Licence?

The Category BE driving licence is an extension of your standard Category B (passenger car) licence, specifically designed for towing heavier trailers. While a regular B licence permits certain trailer combinations, the BE category significantly expands your towing capabilities in the Netherlands. This is particularly important for those who wish to tow large caravans, horse trailers, boat trailers, or transport large equipment.

With a Category B licence, you can generally tow:

• A trailer with a maximum authorised mass (toegestane maximummassa) of up to 750 kg.
• A trailer with a maximum authorised mass exceeding 750 kg, provided the combined maximum authorised mass of the car and trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg.

The Category BE driving licence allows you to drive a passenger car with:

• A trailer with a maximum authorised mass of up to 3,500 kg.
• Under certain conditions, a trailer or semi-trailer with a maximum authorised mass exceeding 3,500 kg, subject to specific vehicle manufacturer limits and other regulations.

This distinction is crucial for safe and legal towing on Dutch roads. The BE licence ensures that you have demonstrated the necessary skills and knowledge to safely handle heavier and often more complex vehicle-trailer combinations.

Eligibility and Prerequisites for the BE Licence

Before you embark on the journey to obtain your BE driving licence, you must meet a few fundamental criteria:

1. Hold a Valid Category B Driving Licence: This is a non-negotiable prerequisite. The BE entitlement is an addition to your B licence, not a standalone licence.
2. Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old to take the practical exam for the BE driving licence.
3. Residency: You must be officially registered in the Netherlands with a valid address.
4. Fitness to Drive: You need to be medically fit to drive, which is assessed through a Gezondheidsverklaring (Health Declaration) submitted to the CBR.

Before You Start: Essential Preparations

Gaining your BE licence requires careful preparation. Here’s a checklist of items and steps to complete before you begin practical training and book your exam:

Preparation Checklist

• Valid DigiD: Your DigiD is essential for logging into Mijn CBR, where you will authorize your driving school and potentially submit your Gezondheidsverklaring. Ensure your DigiD is active and you know your login details, preferably with SMS verification or the DigiD app for secure access.
• Driving School Selection: Research and choose a reputable driving school (rijschool) that offers BE training. They will provide the necessary vehicle combination and expert instruction. Check their pass rates and ensure they are accredited.
• Proof of Identity: A valid form of identification (e.g., passport, ID card) will be required for the CBR practical exam and for applying for your licence at the municipality.
• Passport Photo: You will need a recent, colour passport photo that meets official Dutch government requirements for your new driving licence card application. It's advisable to get this done by a professional photographer.
• Gezondheidsverklaring (Health Declaration): Purchase and complete this form via Mijn CBR. This is a crucial step to determine your medical fitness for driving.

The Procedure to Obtain Your BE Driving Licence

The process to obtain your BE driving licence in the Netherlands typically follows these steps:

Step 1: Choosing and Authorizing Your Driving School

Your driving school is a central partner in this process. They will provide the training vehicle (car and suitable trailer combination), instruct you on specific BE driving techniques, and crucially, book your practical exam with the CBR.

To enable your driving school to book the exam on your behalf, you must authorize them through the CBR’s online portal, Mijn CBR. This measure prevents misuse of your personal details.

1. Find your Driving School's Number: Your driving school will have a unique CBR registration number. You can find this on their website, ask them directly, or use the CBR's driving school details search function (if available).
2. Log in to Mijn CBR: Go to mijn.cbr.nl and log in using your DigiD.
3. Authorize: Follow the instructions to authorize your specific driving school by entering their CBR registration number. This grants them permission to book exams for you.

Step 2: Submitting Your Gezondheidsverklaring (Health Declaration)

The Gezondheidsverklaring (Health Declaration) is a self-assessment of your medical fitness to drive. While you already hold a B licence, the CBR requires this for practical exams across categories to ensure public safety.

1. Purchase and Submit Digitally:
   • Log in to Mijn CBR (mijn.cbr.nl) using your DigiD.
   • Navigate to the section for purchasing a Gezondheidsverklaring.
   • Answer all health-related questions truthfully.
   • The cost for digital submission is approximately €46.90 (as of 2026, subject to change).
   • It is highly recommended to submit this at the start of your driving lessons or well in advance of your desired exam date.
2. Potential Medical Follow-up:
   • If you answer "yes" to any health questions (e.g., heart condition, diabetes, vision loss, certain neurological conditions), or if you are applying for specific heavy vehicle categories (though less common for BE), the CBR may require further medical evaluation.
   • The CBR will send a "Referral Letter" (Verwijsbrief) via Mijn CBR with a unique Zorgdomein Code.
   • You use this code to book an appointment with a general practitioner (huisarts) or specialist doctor.
   • The doctor will submit their findings directly to the CBR via the Zorgdomein platform.
   • In some cases, the CBR may also require a practical road test (Rijtest) to assess if vehicle adaptations are needed due to a physical disability.
3. CBR Decision and Certificate of Fitness (VvG):
   • The CBR typically decides on your fitness within 4 weeks of receiving all medical reports. However, if specialist consultations are needed, the entire process can take up to 4 months.
   • If approved, a Certificate of Fitness (Verklaring van Geschiktheid, VvG) is registered digitally. This VvG is valid for a specific period (often 1 year for new entitlements) and is a prerequisite for your driving licence application at the municipality.

Step 3: Undertaking Practical Training

While not legally mandatory to take lessons, it is highly recommended and practically essential to pass the BE practical exam. Driving a car with a heavy trailer requires distinct skills beyond those for a solo car. Your driving school will focus on:

• Coupling and Uncoupling: Safely attaching and detaching the trailer, checking the safety chain/breakaway cable, electrical connections (lights), and ensuring proper securing.
• Pre-Drive Checks: Inspecting the car and trailer combination for roadworthiness, including tyre pressure, lighting functionality, and load security.
• Maneuvering: Mastering reversing with a trailer (especially around corners), precise steering inputs, and navigating tight spaces.
• On-Road Driving: Adapting your driving style for the increased length and weight, including wider turns, extended braking distances, proper mirror usage, lane positioning, and safe overtaking.
• Traffic Awareness: Heightened awareness of the trailer's presence, understanding its swing-out radius, and anticipating other road users' reactions.

Step 4: Taking the CBR BE Practical Exam

Once your driving instructor deems you ready, they will book your practical exam with the CBR.

Exam Details:

• Duration: Approximately 55 minutes.
• Booking: Exclusively through your authorized driving school.
• Language: The exam is typically conducted in Dutch. You may arrange for an official interpreter if necessary, though this incurs additional costs and must be booked in advance through your driving school.
• Minimum Age: 18 years old.

What to Expect During the Exam:

1. Identity Check and Documents: The examiner will verify your identity. You must bring:
   • A valid proof of identification (ID card or passport).
   • The official notification letter of your exam appointment.
   • Your existing Category B driving licence.
   • A completed self-reflection form (zelfreflectieformulier). Without these documents, you will not be allowed to take the exam.
2. Eye Test: You will be asked to read a vehicle number plate from a distance of approximately 25 metres.
3. Vehicle and Trailer Checks: The examiner may ask questions about the car-trailer combination, such as the maximum authorised mass, coupling mechanisms, tyre conditions, or load security. You will demonstrate the correct procedure for coupling/uncoupling the trailer if required.
4. Maneuvering on a Closed Terrain/Quiet Road: You will be asked to perform specific manoeuvres, most notably reversing with the trailer. This often includes reversing around a corner or into a simulated parking spot.
5. On-Road Driving: The main part of the exam involves driving on public roads, demonstrating your ability to safely handle the car-trailer combination in various traffic situations. This includes navigating roundabouts, crossroads, motorways, and built-up areas. The examiner will assess your observation skills, anticipation, control of the vehicle, and adherence to traffic rules, all while managing the trailer.
6. Results: Immediately after the test, the examiner will tell you whether you have passed and provide feedback. If you pass, the CBR will digitally register your Verklaring van Rijvaardigheid (Certificate of Driving Proficiency) and check for a valid Verklaring van Geschiktheid (Certificate of Fitness - your Gezondheidsverklaring outcome).

Step 5: Applying for Your Updated Driving Licence Card at the Municipality

Passing the practical exam does not mean you can immediately start driving with heavier trailers. Your BE entitlement must be officially recorded on your physical driving licence card.

1. Make an Appointment: Contact the civil affairs department (burgerzaken) of the municipality where you are registered to make an appointment for a driving licence application.
2. Gather Required Documents: Bring the following to your appointment:
   • Your valid proof of identity (ID card or passport).
   • Your current Category B driving licence.
   • One recent, coloured passport photo that meets the strict Dutch government requirements (get this from a professional photographer).
   • If you are a non-Dutch applicant, a valid residence permit.
3. Submit Application and Pay Fee: At the municipality, you will submit your application and pay the required fee for a new driving licence card. The municipality will verify your passing status with the Central Driving Licence Register (Centraal Rijbewijzen Register) managed by the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority).
4. Processing Time: The standard processing time for a new driving licence card is usually about 5 working days. Some municipalities offer an expedited procedure for an additional fee, allowing you to collect your licence sooner (e.g., within 1-2 working days). Check with your municipality for details on urgent procedures and associated costs.

Step 6: Collecting Your New Driving Licence

You will be notified by your municipality when your new driving licence card is ready for collection.

• In-Person Collection: You typically must collect your driving licence in person at the municipality.
• Time Limit: You usually have up to 3 months to collect your new licence card. If not collected within this period, it may be destroyed, and you'd have to reapply.
• Driving Restriction: It is critical to understand that you are not permitted to drive with a BE combination until you have received and possess your new physical driving licence card showing the BE category. Driving without a valid licence for the vehicle combination you are operating can result in fines and legal penalties.

Costs and Fees

The total cost to obtain your BE driving licence can vary significantly based on individual training needs and municipal fees. Here's an overview of potential expenses:

Item	Estimated Cost (Indicative)	Notes
Driving Lessons	€600 - €1,500+	Highly variable. Depends on the number of lessons, driving school rates, and any package deals. Most people take 5-10 hours of specialized BE training.
CBR Practical Exam BE	€150 - €250	Direct fee for the exam itself. Your driving school might add an administrative fee for booking and vehicle use during the exam.
Gezondheidsverklaring (CBR)	~€46.90	Mandatory, purchased via Mijn CBR. Additional medical examination costs (specialists) if required, are separate and highly variable.
Driving Licence Card (Municipality)	€40 - €50	Fee for the physical card. Varies slightly by municipality.
Expedited Licence Procedure	+€30 - €40	Additional fee at the municipality for faster processing and collection (e.g., within 1-2 days).
Passport Photo	€10 - €20	Professional photos meeting official requirements.
Interpreter (if needed)	Highly variable	If you require an official interpreter for the CBR practical exam, this will be an additional significant cost, arranged through your driving school.

Note: All costs are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current fees with the CBR, your driving school, and your local municipality.

Understanding Your BE Driving Licence: Code 96 vs. BE

When discussing trailer entitlements, you may encounter "Code 96" (also known as B+). It's important to understand the distinction between Code 96 and the full BE licence, as they permit different maximum authorised masses for your vehicle-trailer combination.

Here’s a comparison:

Feature	Category B (Standard Car)	Category B with Code 96 (B+)	Category BE (Full Trailer Entitlement)
Maximum Trailer Weight (alone)	Up to 750 kg (max. authorised mass) OR > 750 kg if comb. < 3500 kg	Trailer can exceed 750 kg (max. authorised mass)	Up to 3,500 kg (max. authorised mass)
Maximum Combined Weight (Car + Trailer)	Up to 3,500 kg (max. authorised mass)	Up to 4,250 kg (max. authorised mass)	Trailer up to 3,500 kg (max. authorised mass) + Car's weight; potentially more under specific conditions for trailer/semi-trailer with car.
How to Obtain	Standard practical exam	Practical exam (can be combined with BE training)	Practical exam
Theory Exam Required?	Yes	No separate theory exam	No separate theory exam
Purpose	General passenger car use, light trailers	Slightly heavier caravans/trailers where BE isn't strictly needed	Heavy trailers, large caravans, boat trailers, horseboxes

If your towing needs fall between the standard B limits and the full BE entitlement, Code 96 might be an option. However, many driving schools simply train for and advise obtaining the full BE licence, as the practical exam content is very similar, and BE offers greater flexibility for future towing needs. Always calculate the maximum authorised mass of your specific car and desired trailer to determine which licence category you truly need.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Obtaining your BE driving licence can be straightforward, but several common mistakes can lead to delays or complications:

1. Not Authorizing Your Driving School: Without formal authorization via Mijn CBR, your driving school cannot book your practical exam.
   • Remedy: Ensure you log into Mijn CBR with your DigiD as soon as you choose a driving school and complete the authorization step.
2. Delaying the Gezondheidsverklaring: If you have any health conditions, the medical assessment process can take months.
   • Remedy: Submit your Gezondheidsverklaring at the very beginning of your BE licence journey, ideally before you even start lessons.
3. Driving Before Receiving the Updated Card: Passing the exam means you're competent, but not legally licenced for BE until your physical card reflects it.
   • Remedy: Never drive with a BE combination until you have the new driving licence card in hand. Plan your application to the municipality immediately after passing.
4. Incorrect Passport Photo: Non-compliant photos will be rejected by the municipality, delaying your licence issuance.
   • Remedy: Always use a professional photographer who is aware of Dutch passport photo requirements.
5. Insufficient Practical Training: The BE exam is challenging; simply having a B licence is not enough.
   • Remedy: Take enough lessons with a qualified instructor to feel completely confident with all coupling, maneuvering, and on-road aspects of trailer driving. Your instructor will advise when you are ready.
6. Ignoring Weight Limits: Miscalculating or ignoring the maximum authorised mass of your car and trailer combination.
   • Remedy: Always check the vehicle and trailer registration documents (kentekenbewijs) for the exact maximum authorised mass (toegestane maximummassa) and never exceed these limits. When in doubt, consult the RDW website or your driving school.
7. Not Practicing Reversing: Reversing with a trailer is often the most difficult part for many candidates.
   • Remedy: Dedicate significant practice time to various reversing scenarios during your lessons.
8. Forgetting Required Documents for the Exam: Being turned away from the CBR exam due to missing ID or appointment letter.
   • Remedy: Create a checklist and double-check all required documents the night before and on the morning of your practical exam.

What Happens Next? Your BE Licence and Future Steps

Once you have your updated driving licence card with the BE category, you are legally entitled to drive the permitted heavier trailer combinations. However, remember that the responsibility for safe driving and adhering to all traffic regulations remains entirely with you.

Licence Validity and Renewal

A Dutch driving licence is typically valid for 10 years. Your BE entitlement will be valid for the same period as your underlying B licence. When your driving licence is due for renewal, you will need to apply to your municipality, similar to any other licence renewal. Depending on your age and health at the time of renewal, you might need to submit another Gezondheidsverklaring. For detailed information on licence renewal and medical examinations, refer to the official RDW website.

Beyond BE: Other Trailer Categories

For even heavier trailers or different vehicle types (e.g., trucks or buses with trailers), other licence categories exist:

• C1E: For "light" trucks (3,500-7,500 kg) with a trailer.
• CE: For heavy trucks (> 3,500 kg) with a trailer.
• D1E/DE: For small/large buses with a trailer.

If your future needs involve these categories, the procedures are separate and often involve additional theory and practical exams, as well as more stringent medical requirements.

Official Sources and Further Verification

For the most up-to-date and authoritative information, always consult official Dutch government and driving authority websites:

• RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) - Driving Licence Hub: For general information on driving licences, categories, and regulations in the Netherlands.
  • https://www.rdw.nl/en/driving-licence
• CBR (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheidsbewijzen) - Mijn CBR Portal: For submitting your Gezondheidsverklaring, authorizing your driving school, and managing exam bookings.
  • https://www.cbr.nl/nl/mijncbr/inloggen-op-mijn-cbr.htm
• Your Local Municipality (Gemeente) Website: For specific details on applying for and collecting your driving licence card, including fees and processing times. As an example, for Amsterdam:
  • https://www.amsterdam.nl/en/civil-affairs/applying-dutch-driving-licence/
• Government.nl - Requirements for Photos: For detailed specifications on passport photos needed for official documents.
  • https://www.government.nl/topics/identification-documents/requirements-for-photos

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