Exam preparation

How does the theory exam proceed?

A computer test in an accredited exam center: 50 questions, 15 seconds per question, and your result immediately after completion. This is what happens on exam day.

The theory exam for driving license B is a computer test in an accredited exam center: 50 multiple-choice questions, read aloud, with 15 seconds response time per question. You need 41 out of 50 to pass, and you see your result immediately after completion. The entire exam lasts about 30 minutes.

50multiple-choice questions
15 secresponse time per question
± 30 mintotal duration

1. Reservation and arrival

An appointment is mandatory. You reserve a date via the website of the exam center of your choice. Exams generally take place from Monday to Friday. Arrive on exam day ten to fifteen minutes early. At the counter, show your original, valid identity card or passport. Copies or photos on a smartphone are not accepted. You pay the exam fee on-site, usually with Bancontact.

2. How a question is structured

You take the exam on a computer with headphones. You may first receive one or several practice questions to familiarize yourself with the system. Each question proceeds in the same way:

  • First, you hear the complete question through the headphones.
  • Then the answer options are read aloud.
  • Only then does the 15-second timer start during which you make your choice.
Do not click through to the next question yourself after making your choice. Let the computer proceed automatically, so you retain your full thinking time to double-check your answer.

3. Duration, score, and serious errors

The exam consists of 50 questions about traffic rules, traffic signs, hazard recognition, and traffic insight. The rules and scoring are identical in Flanders, Brussels, and Wallonia.

  • Passing score: at least 41 out of 50. You may make a maximum of 9 minor errors.
  • Minor error: costs 1 point.
  • Serious error: costs 5 points (violations of the third and fourth degree and speed).
  • Two serious errors: then you immediately fail.

An unanswered question counts as a mistake, with the same deduction as a wrong answer. Always answer every question, even if you are in doubt: guessing is better than skipping.

4. After the exam and the fraud rules

Immediately after the exam, you see your result on the screen. If you pass, you receive your theory certificate, which remains valid for 3 years. Anyone who fails twice must first attend 12 hours of theory lessons at an accredited driving school. Fraud is strictly monitored: bringing a smartphone or earpiece leads to immediate exclusion and an exam ban.

Frequently asked questions

15 seconds, after the question and answers have been read aloud.

You need 41 out of 50, so a maximum of 9 minor errors. Two serious errors means you fail immediately.

Yes, as a mistake, with the same deduction as a wrong answer. So always answer every question.

Do you know how it really feels?

Practice a free trial exam in the same style as the real GOCA exam, with the time pressure of 15 seconds per question.

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Further reading: How many questions? · What to bring? · How many mistakes?

Last updated: June 2026 · Content reviewed by Mathieu, instructor · Source: GOCA and the Belgian Highway Code

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