CBR assessment result: how long it takes and what if you fail

After your appointment with the psychiatrist in the CBR assessment, it usually takes 8 to 12 weeks before you receive the result by letter. The specialist writes a report within about 8 weeks, after which the CBR usually sends a decision within about 4 weeks. Lab values like CDT and gamma-GT feed into that judgement.

This waiting period can feel uncertain. Below you'll read step by step how the timeline is built up, which outcomes are possible, and what you can do if you're declared unfit.

How long does the CBR assessment take?

The whole process, from the appointment to the letter, usually takes 8 to 12 weeks. The appointment itself consists of a conversation with the psychiatrist and sometimes additional blood testing. After that comes the report, which takes up most of the time.

The examining doctor or psychiatrist assesses your situation based on the conversation, your history, and any lab results. According to the CBR, a specialist may take up to about 8 weeks for the report.

The exact duration depends on how busy the examining body is and whether extra testing is needed.

When will you get the result?

The CBR sends the result by letter, usually within about 4 weeks after the specialist's report has arrived. You won't get a result right after the appointment, because the psychiatrist first has to finish the report and the CBR then assesses it.

The letter states the decision and the reasoning. Sometimes the CBR requests additional information, which can extend the timeline.

You can often track the status of your case in your account on the CBR website.

Why lab values count

Blood values like CDT (carbohydrate-deficient transferrin) and gamma-GT may say something about alcohol use over a longer period. A raised value might point to recent heavy use, but one value never gives the full picture.

The doctor weighs these values together with the conversation and your history. If you want to know more about these markers, read how you can check your CDT and EtG yourself via self-checking your CDT and EtG.

Which outcomes are possible?

There are roughly three possible outcomes: fit, unfit, or fit under conditions. If you're fit, you may drive (again). With fit under conditions, a driving licence with a limited validity or a periodic re-examination may apply. If you're unfit, you won't get a driving licence for now.

The outcome depends on the complete picture, not on one single value. The psychiatrist assesses whether there are signs of alcohol or drug misuse or dependence.

Fit under conditions

Sometimes you'll get a driving licence with a shorter validity, for example one or three years. After that, a re-examination may follow. This gives the CBR room to follow your situation over time.

Which condition applies is stated in the letter. If you have questions, you can contact the CBR for an explanation of your specific decision.

What if you're declared unfit?

If you're declared unfit, there are usually three routes: object to the decision, request a second opinion or re-examination, and complete the recidiefvrije periode. Which route fits depends on your situation and the reason for the decision.

You file an objection in writing with the CBR, usually within six weeks of the letter's date. Always check the objection deadline in your own decision.

Objection and second opinion

With a second opinion or re-examination, a different doctor looks at your situation. The conditions for this are described in the CBR's information. Keep in mind that a re-examination often involves costs.

If you're unsure about the procedure around the health declaration, read more about the health declaration for the driving licence.

The recidiefvrije periode

With an alcohol-related decision, a recidiefvrije periode often applies: a continuous time in which you demonstrably have no problematic alcohol use. How this scheme works is explained in our article on the recidiveregeling for alcohol and in the overview of the full CBR alcohol and drug assessment.

Tracking your own values between steps

During this period, you can privately have your own CDT value checked to know where you stand. An alcohol (CDT) test gives you insight into your value at that moment.

Such a self-test doesn't replace or predict the official CBR result. It's a calm way to get a picture for yourself, without it saying anything about the CBR's decision.

For general, independent information about alcohol and health, you can turn to Thuisarts.nl and the RIVM.

Sources

• CBR, information about the assessment and result for driving fitness.
• Thuisarts.nl, information about alcohol and health.
• RIVM, background information about alcohol use.

Every test result at Zuivertest includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.