The Road to a Driver’s License

COMPLETING THE FIRST AID COURSE

Obtaining a driver’s license begins with the successful completion of the first aid course (Nothelferkurs). In Switzerland, every person is obligated to provide assistance in an emergency situation within reasonable limits. In the first aid course, you will learn life-saving immediate measures, correct behavior at an accident scene, and the legal basics of first aid (see also Art. 128, Swiss Criminal Code).

The first aid certificate is valid for six years and must be submitted as an original document with the learning permit application to the Road Traffic Office.

REGISTRATION FOR THE THEORY TEST

After completing the first aid course, you can register for the theory test at the Road Traffic Office with your learning permit application. It is important to have an eye test performed in advance by an optician or ophthalmologist and have it recorded in the learning permit application form.

Once you submit the fully completed application, you will receive a letter with your personal login details for the Road Traffic Office’s online scheduling platform. You can then choose a date for the theory test, which is possible no earlier than two months before your 18th birthday.

Learning permit application form

THEORY TEST

The theory test takes place on a computer at the Road Traffic Office. Within 45 minutes, you must answer 50 questions. If the theory test is not passed, it can be retaken as many times as needed. The cost of the theory test is 36 CHF. After passing the test, you will receive your learning permit by mail.

Details:

• Category: B
• Type: Multiple choice questions
• Number of questions: 50
• Max score: 150 points
• Max error points: 15 points
• Duration: 45 minutes

For a list of study materials: https://asa.ch/dienstleistungen/theoriepruefung/lernmittel/

DRIVING LESSONS

The learning permit is required for practical driving training and is valid for 24 months. With this permit, you are authorized to conduct practice drives accompanied by a driving instructor or a supervising person (aged 23 or older with at least three years of a valid Category B license).

Swiss road traffic law does not mandate a specific number of compulsory driving lessons for the practical driving test. However, it is highly recommended to learn correct vehicle operation and lawful driving at a qualified driving school.

At Fahrschule Gloor, you will be gradually introduced to the vehicle, proper posture, and controls. This includes adjusting the seat, steering wheel, and mirrors, as well as managing pedals and controls. You will learn the essential technical details, gaining familiarity with the vehicle that you will use for your practical driving test at the Road Traffic Office.

We start with basic driving exercises, such as moving off, steering, braking, and gear shifting. In the next phase, various driving maneuvers and processes are practiced in simple traffic scenarios before you are introduced to more complex traffic situations.

TRAFFIC AWARENESS TRAINING (VKU)

Completing the mandatory traffic awareness training (VKU) is a prerequisite for being admitted to the practical driving test.

The VKU lasts for 4 sessions of 2 hours each and aims to promote defensive, responsible, and environmentally friendly driving through traffic awareness and hazard education.

PRACTICAL DRIVING TEST

Registration for the practical driving test is handled by the driving instructor. The driving test begins and ends at the Road Traffic Office and lasts about 50 minutes. During this time, the examiner will assess your behavior in traffic, vehicle operation, and your ability to perform various maneuvers, such as parking, turning, emergency braking, and reversing.