Frequently asked questions
The questions we're asked most often. Yours not here? Send a message — you'll usually hear back quickly.
How many lessons will I need?
It genuinely varies from person to person. Someone who has driven before needs fewer than someone who has never sat behind the wheel. After your trial lesson we'll give you an honest estimate, and during the course you'll always know where you stand.
As a guideline: someone who has never driven before needs around 50 lessons on average. If you've had lessons before or have some experience behind the wheel, it is often noticeably fewer.
Our principle stays the same: as few lessons as possible for the maximum result. Once you're ready for your exam, we go for it.
Why is a package cheaper than single lessons?
A single lesson costs €50 and the practical exam €290. Every package on the prices page shows what the same lessons would cost separately, so you can see exactly what you save. On the 40-lesson package, for instance, that's €400.
How long is one lesson?
A lesson lasts 50 minutes. We usually schedule double lessons — two back to back — because that gives you far more effective driving time and you progress faster.
Can I have lessons in the evening or at weekends?
Yes, both. Evening and weekend lessons are available. Tell us which days and times suit you when you sign up and we'll see what fits in the diary.
Is the practical exam included in the price?
The practical exam is included with the 20, 30, 40 and 50-lesson packages. It isn't included with the 10-lesson package — the exam then costs €290 and is booked separately.
What is an interim test (tussentijdse toets)?
An interim test is a practice run at the CBR that runs exactly like a real exam, but without a result that counts towards your licence. It's a good way to get used to exam conditions. It costs €230.
What does the free re-exam guarantee cover?
A free re-exam guarantee is available with our packages. We're happy to explain the exact conditions in person — send a message and we'll talk you through it.
Do you teach in an automatic car?
Not at the moment. We teach in a manual car only. There's an upside to that: you earn a category B licence without the automatic-only restriction, so you can drive either type afterwards.
Where do the lessons take place?
We teach in Rotterdam, Dordrecht and Barendrecht and the areas immediately around them, picking you up at an agreed spot. Live just outside? Ask anyway — more is often possible than you'd think.
Can I have lessons in English or Russian?
Yes. Slava teaches in Dutch, English and Russian, and you choose the language. Many students combine the two: explanations in their own language, and the exam terminology practised in Dutch.
How do I sign up?
Fastest by WhatsApp on +31 6 44 85 90 25. Send your name, where you live and roughly when you'd like to start. You can also email v.g.smirnov@novadrive.nl.
What if I can't make a lesson?
Let us know as soon as you can and we'll find a new slot together. The earlier you cancel, the easier the lesson is to move.
Lessons in English and Russian too
Slava teaches in Dutch, English and Russian. Useful if you haven't been in the Netherlands long: you pick the language your lessons are taught in, and we practise the exam terminology in Dutch.
Ready to start?
Send a message with your name and where you live. You'll usually get a reply within a few hours and can start soon after.