Driving test with Parkinson’s
How does Parkinson’s affect your driving licence? That’s not always entirely clear. We’ve listed everything for you below.
Note: This information is specific to the Netherlands. If you do not live in the Netherlands, we recommend checking the rules that apply in your own country.
Are you required to take a driving test if you have Parkinson’s?
Yes, under Dutch law you are required to take a driving test after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s. This is stated on the website of the CBR (Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing). If you don’t take the test and are involved in an accident, you can be held legally responsible.
Please note: Many websites contain incorrect or outdated information. Always refer to the official CBR website for the most up-to-date guidance.
How do I arrange a driving test?
First, fill in the CBR’s Health Declaration (Rules for driving with a muscle or nervous system disorder – CBR). Then, make an appointment with a neurologist. This must not be your own neurologist, and be aware that it can take up to two months to get an appointment.
In the meantime, the CBR will send the necessary forms for the neurologist directly to you. You’ll need to forward these yourself to the neurologist. That way, when you arrive for your appointment, the forms will already be in their system and the neurologist can complete them straight away.
What does the neurologist assess?
The neurologist assesses whether you are fit to participate in traffic. They look at things like your strength and mobility, your reaction time, the range of your field of vision, and any symptoms that might affect your driving ability.
The neurologist will go through the form with you, and once you agree, it will be sent directly to the CBR. You’ll receive a response within four weeks. After that, you can immediately schedule your driving test online at a CBR location near you. Expect the appointment to take place about three weeks later.
The Driving Test
You’re allowed to use your own car for the test. Before you start driving, you’ll first do a brake test. A small measuring device is placed under your brake pedal, and you’ll need to press it with as much force as you can.
If that goes well, you’ll go for a short drive. During the test, they observe how you behave in traffic: whether you use your mirrors properly, whether you can operate all controls, how your reaction time is, and how well you keep up with the flow of traffic. In short, whether it is safe for you to be on the road.
For how long can my driving licence be extended?
1, 3 or 5 years
How long your driving licence is valid depends on your symptoms and how quickly they are expected to progress. When your licence expires, the CBR will assess again whether it’s safe for you to drive. If you also hold a commercial driving licence, stricter rules apply.
The neurologist and the CBR driving examiner both give their advice to the CBR medical officer, who ultimately decides whether your licence can be renewed—and for how long. You’ll receive confirmation of this by post within one week of your driving test.
Tip: Start the renewal process at least four months before your licence expires.
How much will this cost me?
Expect to pay around €400 to €500 in total.
This covers the cost of the Health Declaration, the neurologist, and the renewal of your driving licence. The driving test itself is free.
Updated following an email from a donor.
Is this information incorrect? Let us know and get in touch.
