Gezondheidsverklaring (CBR health declaration): rules and costs

Is a Gezondheidsverklaring compulsory?

Yes, when you get your first licence. With the Gezondheidsverklaring the CBR checks that you are physically and mentally fit enough to drive. Everyone who wants to take the practical car exam fills one in, not just people with a medical condition. According to the RDW you need a health declaration:

• for your first licence and for every new licence category, except the moped licence (AM);
• when you exchange a licence from outside the EU/EFTA, and sometimes for an EU/EFTA licence;
• when your licence expires on or after your 75th birthday and you want to renew it;
• when you apply for or renew a C or D licence (truck or bus);
• when you have a condition or symptoms that could affect your driving.

Do you need it for the theory exam?

No. You book the theory exam with just your DigiD in Mijn CBR. The health declaration is needed for the practical exam. Only once the CBR confirms you are fit to drive can your driving school book your practical exam. Still, don’t wait: the CBR advises filling it in as soon as you start driving lessons. Sometimes you first need to see a doctor or take a driving assessment, and that takes time.

What does it cost and how long does it take?

If nothing stands out, you usually hear straight away that you are fit to drive. The CBR can also decide you are fit for a limited period, or fit under conditions, such as wearing glasses or using an adapted car. Sometimes you are not fit to drive. If you disagree with a decision, you can ask for a new examination or lodge an objection.

How long is a health declaration valid?

• The decision on your health declaration is usually valid for 3 years. You take your practical exam within that time. Sometimes it’s shorter for a medical reason, and then your decision says so.
• Fail the practical exam and resit within those 3 years? You don’t need to send in a new health declaration.
• Passed? The CBR then registers a Verklaring van geschiktheid (fitness certificate) in your name. It’s valid for 1 year from the day you pass. Apply for your licence at your municipality within that year, or you’ll have to fill in a new health declaration.
• Planning to ride a motorcycle as well? Tick several categories at once, such as car (B) and motorcycle (A). The same decision then covers both.

How to fill it in

1. Log in to Mijn CBR with your DigiD. You need DigiD with SMS check or the DigiD app.
2. Answer the questions about your health. You are required to answer truthfully.
3. Pay €46.90. You get an email confirming the CBR has received your declaration.
4. Within 4 weeks you hear about the next step. You can track the status in Mijn CBR.

Watch out for misleading websites. Some sell a "pre-check" that isn’t a real health declaration. You then still have to go to the CBR, so you pay twice. Always arrange it through cbr.nl. If online doesn’t work for you, you can buy a paper version at the desk in Amsterdam, Arnhem, Eindhoven or Rijswijk, or order one from customer service. That does take longer.

Exchanging a foreign licence

With a licence from outside the EU/EFTA, you need a health declaration to exchange it. Sometimes you need one for an EU/EFTA licence too, for example if it’s valid for less time than usual in that country. The RDW tells you which applies to you. The CBR advises filling it in 6 months before you may no longer drive on your foreign licence, because an expired licence can’t be exchanged. If exchange isn’t possible, you take the theory and practical exams.