The theory test remains valid for longer than usual to accommodate people currently undergoing driver training. After all, the exams are temporarily suspended due to corona.
If the validity of the theory exam expires between January 1 and May 1, 2021, it will remain valid until October 1. Minister Van Nieuwenhuizen (Infrastructure and Water Management) writes this to the Lower House. She wants to prevent people who are engaged in their driver training from becoming victims of the measures surrounding the coronvirus.
Because of the lockdown it is not possible to take the CBR exam until January 19. In order to prevent previously passed theory exams from being no longer valid, the validity of these exams will be extended. The theoretical and practical exams for logistics professions, such as truck drivers, also remain valid for longer.
Renew
Earlier this year, Van Nieuwenhuizen argued for a European solution for the renewal of driving licenses. In some cases that is now impossible. Driving licenses that have expired in the period from February 1 to November 30 are now being renewed. People with a driving license that has expired during this period can continue driving for an additional nine months. They will remain insured during that period and will not be fined if they are stopped. This also applies to professional drivers whose certificate of professional competence (Code 95) expired before 1 December. Minister Van Nieuwenhuizen is in favor of a national leniency scheme whereby driving licenses that have lost their validity in the period from 1 December, remain valid for longer. She is discussing this with the Ministry of Justice and Security and the Dutch Association of Insurers.
The measure does not apply to driving licenses that have been recovered or suspended, for example due to a serious traffic offense or alcohol consumption in traffic. An expired driving license also does not count as a means of identification, with the exception of situations in which there is a decrease in care.