A new year is the perfect moment for a fresh start. And honestly: one of the best New Year’s resolutions for 2026 is getting your driving license. It gives you freedom, saves time, and often creates extra opportunities (work, studies, hobbies).
But you don’t pass “just by luck”. Data shows that many candidates fail on their first attempt. See this VRT NWS article (Dutch): Helft kandidaten faalt bij eerste poging rijexamen. The good news? If you approach it the right way, you’ll do well.
The step-by-step plan: from resolution to license
If you tackle it properly, you’ll perform better on the exam.
Step 1: the theory exam (your foundation)
The theory exam is your starting point. It’s the base for safe driving later: traffic rules, signs, right of way, risk awareness and traffic insight.
Best tip: just start. Create an account on Theoriedoen.be and get started for free. Study and practice a lot—that’s how you crush the exam. Let’s go!
Want to practice right away?
- Practice car theory
- Car theory exam explained
- How many mistakes can you make on the car theory exam?
Smart approach:
- Practice daily (20–30 minutes a day beats 3 hours once).
- Review mistakes: why was your answer wrong?
- Train with time pressure (so you don’t freeze on exam day).
- Repeat difficult topics (right of way, signs, hazard perception).
Step 2: practice (plan ahead)
After theory comes the practical part: you can practice with a supervisor (provisional license) and/or take lessons with a driving school. Extra guidance helps: structure, feedback, and focused training on weak points.
Are you practicing with your provisional license? Think about when you want to take the practical exam, because you may have to wait for an appointment. Demand has exploded.
Practical exam requests increased by 13%. In September 2025, 12,500 practical exams were taken—significantly more than in 2024.
So: book your appointment in time via the exam center/GOCA website:
A realistic 2026 timeline (without stress)
If you start today, this simple plan works well:
- Week 1–2: learn theory + practice daily
- Week 3–4: mock exams + fix weak points
- Week 5–6: exam-ready practice (realistic simulations, repetition)
Once theory is done, focus your practice sessions on:
- traffic insight (observe, predict, decide)
- complex situations (roundabouts, cyclists, busy intersections)
- exam-focused driving (maneuvers, calm decisions, consistency)
FAQ
What’s the best way to start with theory?
Keep it simple: create an account and start learning + practicing. Consistency wins.
When should I book my practical exam?
As soon as lessons feel stable and your instructor/supervisor says you’re at exam level. Book early—waiting times can be real.
What increases my chance of passing the most?
Practice a lot and analyze your mistakes. Practice without feedback feels good; practice with analysis makes the difference.
Summary
Best tip: just start. Create an account on theoriedoen.be and get started for free. Study and practice a lot—that’s how you crush the exam. Let’s go!
