Person registers for the civic integration exam on a computer with DUO on the screen

Registering for the Civic Integration Exam with DUO: How to Do It

You want to register for the civic integration exam, but you are not sure how it works with DUO. No worries: in this guide we explain it step by step. You will read how to register, what it costs, when you get your results, and what to do if you cannot come.

In the Netherlands, you must pass your civic integration exam within three years of registering in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP). This is a condition to keep your residence permit and maybe later become a Dutch citizen. DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs) handles the registration and the exams. If you do this well, you avoid fines and delays.

In this guide you will read everything about registering: which forms you need, how to pay, how to choose an exam location, and what to do if you are sick. We also give example sentences you can use when you call or email. This way you can get started with confidence. At the end, you will have a clear step-by-step plan for this week.

What is the civic integration exam and who has to take it?

The civic integration exam shows that you have sufficient command of the Dutch language and that you know how society works. It consists of three parts: Reading, Listening, and Writing at level A2, plus the part Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM). For the Speaking part, there is a separate test, but it is often taken on the same day.

Not everyone has to take the exam. If you are exempt because you have a diploma or a medical reason, you do not need to register. But most newcomers do have to. DUO sends you a letter when you need to start with civic integration. That letter also states the deadline by which you must pass. It is smart to put that date well in your calendar.

How do you register for the civic integration exam with DUO?

You register via the DUO website with your DigiD. Go to duonl and choose 'Inburgeren' and then 'Examen doen'. You log in with your DigiD and you will see an overview of your civic integration obligation. There you can choose an exam date. Note: you can only register if you have received an invitation from DUO or if you have been obligated to integrate for a while.

During registration, you first choose the part you want to do, for example 'Reading'. Then you choose a date and a location. DUO has exam locations in many cities, such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Eindhoven. Choose a location that is easy to reach by public transport. You can also plan multiple parts on the same day, but that is often intensive. Many people do Reading and Listening first, and later Speaking and Writing.

Log in with your DigiD on the DUO website.
Click on 'Examen doen' under your civic integration obligation.
Choose the part you want to do (for example Reading).
Choose a date and a location nearby.
Pay the exam fee (check the current rate with DUO).
You will receive a confirmation by email. Save it well.

What does the civic integration exam cost and how do you pay?

The exam is not free. You pay per part. The rate changes every year, so always check the DUO website for the current amount. You can usually pay with iDEAL via the website. If you do not have iDEAL, you can get an invoice, but then it takes longer before you have your confirmation.

Some municipalities pay for the exam for you, for example if you have a loan from DUO for your civic integration. That is called the 'lening inburgering'. You can also claim the costs of the exam if you have taken out a loan. Ask your municipality if they can help you with the payment. It is important to pay on time, because otherwise your registration will be cancelled.

Practical example sentences for contact with DUO

Sometimes you need to contact DUO, for example if you have a question about your registration or if you want to reschedule an appointment. You can call or send a message via Mijn DUO. It is handy to know a few sentences you can use. Below are example sentences that you can adapt to your situation.

When you call, you will need your citizen service number (BSN) and your DigiD. Write down in advance what you want to ask. This way you will not forget anything and you can speak calmly. The DUO staff are used to people who are learning Dutch, so they speak clearly and slowly if you ask.

Good morning, I want to register for the civic integration exam, but I have a question about the payment.
I received a confirmation of my exam, but I want to change the date. Is that possible?
I am sick on the exam day. What should I do?
Can you tell me where I can find my exam location?
I have not received an invitation from DUO yet, but I want to register already. How does that work?
I lost my DigiD. How can I register?
Can you speak more slowly? I am still learning Dutch.

Step-by-step plan: how to arrange your registration this week

It may sound like a lot, but with this step-by-step plan you will have your registration arranged within a week. Put each step in your calendar and work through them one by one. This way you avoid stress and you will not forget anything.

Start by checking your civic integration obligation. Log in to Mijn DUO and see what is still open. Ask a family member or friend to help if you cannot figure it out. You can also go to the civic integration desk at your municipality. They will help you with the registration for free.

Step 1: Log in to Mijn DUO with your DigiD and check your civic integration obligation.
Step 2: Choose an exam date and location that suits you well.
Step 3: Pay the exam fee via iDEAL or ask your municipality for help.
Step 4: Print or save the confirmation of your registration.
Step 5: Plan your trip to the exam location (public transport or car).
Step 6: Practice for the exam with Dutch Fluency and make a schedule.

Common mistakes when registering (and what works instead)

Many people make small mistakes when registering that cause delays. A common mistake is registering too late. DUO has a limited number of places, so do not wait until the last moment. Register at least two months in advance, especially for the busy periods in spring and autumn.

Another mistake is choosing the wrong location. Do not choose only based on the fastest train, but also on parking options if you go by car. Also check if you can be on time; some locations are far from the station. And do not forget to bring your ID on the exam day. Without a valid ID, you cannot take the exam.

Mistake: registering too late. Fix: set a reminder on your phone and register at least 2 months in advance.
Mistake: choosing the wrong location. Fix: check on Google Maps how to get there and how long your travel time is.
Mistake: not having a valid ID with you. Fix: always bring your passport or ID card.
Mistake: not paying. Fix: pay immediately after registering, otherwise your reservation will lapse.
Mistake: not saving the confirmation. Fix: save the email on your phone or print it out.

Mini checklist for your exam day

On the exam day, you do not want to be surprised. Use this checklist to bring everything and be well prepared. Set your alarm early and leave early so you do not have to rush.

Also bring something to eat and drink, because an exam takes a long time and you may have a break. Turn off your phone during the exam. And remember: you are not allowed to use a dictionary, but you are allowed to have a pen and paper for notes.

Valid ID (passport or ID card) in your bag.
The confirmation of your registration (on paper or on your phone).
A pen and paper for notes.
Water and a small snack for the break.
Your travel route and possibly an OV-chipkaart or parking money.
Set your phone to silent and put it in your bag.

How to practice for the exam while you wait for the date

Waiting for your exam date is a good time to practice. You can take online practice exams and expand your vocabulary. Dutch Fluency has exercises that are similar to the real exam, so you know what to expect. Do a short exercise every day, for example 15 minutes of reading or listening.

Also practice speaking, because that is often the most nerve-wracking. Speak Dutch out loud, for example to yourself or with a friend. Record yourself with your phone and listen back. This way you hear which words you still need to practice. The more you practice, the calmer you will be on the exam day.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get the results of the civic integration exam?

You usually get the results within 4 to 6 weeks after the exam. You can see the results in Mijn DUO. Sometimes it takes longer, for example during busy periods. You will always receive a letter or email when the results are known.

Can I register for the civic integration exam without DigiD?

No, you need a DigiD to register via the website. If you do not have a DigiD yet, you can request one at digid.nl. You will need your citizen service number and a phone number. Ask someone for help if you cannot figure it out.

What should I do if I want to change the exam date?

You can change your registration via Mijn DUO, but only before the final change date. That date is in your confirmation. If you are too late, you cannot change it anymore and you will have to miss the exam. If in doubt, contact DUO.

Is it possible to do multiple parts on the same day?

Yes, that is possible. For example, you can do Reading and Listening on the same day. Keep in mind that it will be a long day. Many people choose to spread the parts so they can concentrate on each part.

What does the civic integration exam cost in 2025?

The exact costs change every year. For the most current rate, check the DUO website. On average, a part costs around 50 euros, but this can vary. Always check the official rate before you pay.

I do not have money to pay for the exam. What now?

You can apply for a loan from DUO for your civic integration. You can use this loan to pay for the exam. There are also municipalities that reimburse (part of) the costs. Contact your municipality or DUO to ask about the options.

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