PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to identify predicting factors for successful vocational rehabilitation for people with back pain problems. METHOD: The study was based on data from 347 long-term sick-listed clients collected at the onset of vocational rehabilitation. The outcome was measured 6 months after the conclusion of rehabilitation. RESULTS: In a first bi-variate analysis, a considerable number of variables were associated with the rehabilitation outcome. In a second multivariate analysis, only four associations remained. These were age, general health, vitality and internal locus of control. Young vital clients in good general health, with a high internal locus of control were more likely than others to return to work. CONCLUSION: The findings regarding age, general health and vitality are well in line with previous studies. The findings regarding internal locus of control are more unique.