Norway Theory Test - Category CE
More study resources
Cheat sheet
Keep the key ideas within reach.
ExploreKey terms
Get comfortable with the vocabulary.
ExploreStudy plan
Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
Understand the traps and how to avoid them.
ExploreCase studies
Put your knowledge to work in context.
ExploreExam-day guide
Prepare for the day ahead.
ExploreAbout this exam
The Norwegian theory test for driving licence category CE is the knowledge component of the qualification to drive a lorry with a heavy trailer - a rigid vehicle or tractor unit coupled to a trailer whose permitted maximum mass exceeds 750 kg. The class is aimed at professional drivers and at private candidates who need the combination entitlement, and it builds on the C category: you must already hold (or be qualifying for) class C before CE can be issued. The computer-based test at an approved test centre samples the whole CE syllabus: traffic law, signs and markings; coupling, load distribution and dimension rules; handling and driving technique for long, heavy, articulated combinations; safety and emergency procedures; EU/EEA driving and rest time rules with the tachograph; vehicle documentation and periodic inspection; eco-driving; health, fitness and first aid; and goods handling. Passing the theory test is only one step - the practical CE test and the professional competence requirements for commercial transport also apply. Prepare with the current Norwegian road traffic legislation (veglova and the forskrift on driving licences), the tachograph regulation, and the vehicle and load regulations, then practise until road situations and combination-specific rules become automatic. Statens vegvesen publishes the current practical details of booking, fees and results.
What you'll study
About Norway Theory Test - Category CE preparation
What exactly does the CE category let me drive?
A CE licence covers a motor vehicle in class C - a lorry or tractor unit - coupled to a trailer with a permitted maximum mass over 750 kg. It is the entitlement for articulated combinations and lorry-and-drawbar-trailer rigs. You must hold class C first; CE is added to it, and the two appear together on the licence.
How is the theory test delivered?
It is a computer-based multiple-choice test taken at a Statens vegvesen test centre or an authorised traffic school. The questions are in Norwegian, with translations available on request. You answer on screen and get the result shortly afterwards. Statens vegvesen publishes the current booking procedure and the languages offered.
How many questions are there and how long do I have?
The official question count and time limit are set by Statens vegvesen and can change, so check its website before booking rather than relying on second-hand figures. Treat any specific number you hear from other candidates with caution. What matters for preparation is covering the whole CE syllabus, not memorising a count.
What score do I need to pass, and what does a retake cost?
The passing score and the fee for a first attempt and any retake are published by Statens vegvesen and are not fixed forever. Look them up on the official site when you book. If you fail, you normally book a new appointment and pay again; there is no limit on attempts, but each one costs time and money.
How difficult is the CE theory test compared with class B?
It is harder in a different way. The traffic-law core overlaps with class B, but CE adds combination-specific material: coupling and uncoupling checks, axle loads and load distribution, dimensions, tachograph and driving-time rules, and the physics of long heavy rigs. Candidates who only revise general traffic rules usually find those areas the weak point.
In what order should I study the syllabus?
Start with traffic law, signs and markings, since that underpins everything else. Then work through combination and load rules, then driving technique and safety. Leave driving and rest time rules, documentation and tachograph, eco-driving, health and first aid, and goods handling for later - they are smaller blocks and easier to retain close to the test date.
What do candidates most often get wrong?
Common failure points are driving and rest time calculations, tachograph record-keeping, axle-load and load-distribution questions, and coupling or uncoupling safety checks. Speed and stopping-distance questions for heavy combinations also catch people who revise only car figures. Practise these until you can reason them out rather than recall a number.
Does passing the theory test give me the licence?
No. The theory test is one requirement. You also need to pass the practical CE driving test, meet the health requirements, and - if you drive professionally for hire or reward - satisfy the EU/EEA professional competence rules. Check your own situation with Statens vegvesen before you plan the practical test.
How long is the CE theory result valid?
Validity periods for theory results and for the issue of the licence are set in the Norwegian driving licence regulations and can be amended. Confirm the current rule with Statens vegvesen when you pass, and plan the practical test so you do not let the result lapse before the driving test.