The CSDD theory exam
Theory is daunting not because it's hard, but because it's unfamiliar. Here's how the exam is structured, where and in which language you take it, and how to prepare so you arrive calm.
How the exam works
The exam is 30 multiple-choice questions across the traffic-rule topics, with 30 minutes to answer them. To pass, you may make no more than 3 mistakes. Always check the current conditions and the fee on the official CSDD (the Road Traffic Safety Directorate, Ceļu satiksmes drošības direkcija) page.
Where and in which language
You take the exam at a CSDD customer service centre. It's available in several languages, including Russian and English. Current conditions are on the CSDD site.
How to book
You can book via e-CSDD, by phone, or in person at a service centre. Check in advance which documents you need.
How to prepare effectively
Don't memorise answers — understand the logic of the rules. Practise on the official CSN (Ceļu satiksmes noteikumi, the Latvian road traffic rules) test and review your mistakes, rather than just re-solving.
Mini test: check yourself before the exam
10 questions on the current rules. See your score and weak spots — no sign-up.
1. What is the maximum speed in a built-up area unless signs say otherwise?
2. What speed is allowed in a residential zone and courtyards?
3. Maximum speed outside built-up areas with no signs?
4. Equal junction with no signs, a car approaches from your right. What do you do?
5. The traffic light is working, but a 'Priority road' sign stands beside it. What governs?
6. You enter a roundabout with a 'Give way' sign at the entry. What do you do?
7. How many questions and how much time in the theory exam?
8. How many mistakes may you make to pass the theory?
9. You failed the driving exam. When can you retake it?
10. You walk on the carriageway at night on an unlit road. What do you need?
Situation: exam day
A mini-scenario from Roman: the CSDD driving exam is 50% skill and 50% headspace. Let's check the headspace.
1 / 3
Tomorrow's your driving exam. The evening's free. How do you prepare?
Real-world situations
You've booked the exam but aren't sure which language to choose.
The exam is available in several languages, including Russian and English. Pick the one you read most comfortably — the language only changes the wording of the questions, not their difficulty.
There are 10 minutes left and you've done only half the questions.
There's enough time: 30 minutes for 30 questions is a minute each. Don't rush; read each question to the end. Up to 3 mistakes are allowed.
You've made 2 mistakes and you're anxious about a third, doubtful question.
The pass threshold is no more than 3 mistakes out of 30. You still have margin: calmly re-read the question and all the options before you answer.
Common mistakes
Memorising answers instead of understanding the logic of the rules.
Work out WHY an answer is correct. The wording differs on the exam, but the logic is the same.
Turning up without the required documents and losing the booking.
Check on CSDD in advance which documents you need, and arrive with time to spare.
Preparing from outdated question sets found online.
Practise on the official CSN test — only it reflects the current questions.
Key takeaways
- The exam: 30 questions, 30 minutes, no more than 3 mistakes to pass.
- You can book via e-CSDD, by phone, through a driving school, or in person.
- Prepare on the official CSN test, not on random question sets.
- Understanding the logic beats memorising — the exam rephrases the questions.
Check yourself
How many questions are in the CSDD theory exam, and how much time do you get?
How many mistakes may you make and still pass the theory?
How can you book the exam?
Before you book the exam
- Check the current conditions on the CSDD site
- Make sure you picked a comfortable language
- Prepare the required documents
- Work through the official CSN test
- Review your typical mistakes
Frequent questions
How long does it take to prepare for theory?
It depends on your starting level. A few weeks of regular CSN-test practice with error review is usually enough.
Can I retake it?
Yes, retakes are possible. Check the conditions and timing on the official CSDD site.
Do I need an instructor for theory?
Not strictly, but an instructor helps you grasp the logic of the hard topics faster — priority, junctions, signs.
Exam prep with Roman
Theory is half the job. Roman finds your weak spots and runs a lesson in exam format.
CSDD exam preparation →CSN practice test
Official CSDD sample exam questions.
Open the CSN test →Official CSDD information
Current rules, conditions and exam booking.
Go to CSDD →Other theory topics
Prepare for theory with an instructor
Roman explains the logic behind the rules and works through your specific weak spots — so theory isn't rote memorisation.
🎮 Topic done — now try it behind the wheel
Mini-Riga: an exam route, Roman's tasks and examiner-style scoring. Five minutes of practice after the theory.