Learning to drive in Switzerland

Once the learner licence has been obtained, there are two ways to learn to drive, and they can be combined.

Two paths, often combined

Once the learner licence has been obtained, the practical learning takes place:

with a professional driving instructor, holding an authorisation to teach driving;
or through privately accompanied driving, with a family member or friend meeting the legal conditions to be an accompanying driver.

The two can be freely combined: most learners take a few lessons with a professional to acquire the basics, then build up experience through further practice drives with an accompanying driver. Certain learner licence categories allow driving alone from the start - see accompanied driving to find out which ones.

Where to start

The order of the administrative steps (first aid course, eyesight test, learner licence, theory) is detailed on the page get your driving licence. The actual practical learning only begins once the learner licence has been issued.

How long and how many lessons

There is no legally mandated number of lessons or total duration for category B: the pace depends on each learner's progress. See is there a minimum number of driving lessons for what the law actually requires and what is a matter of personal choice.

How much it costs

The cost depends on the number of professional lessons taken and the driving school chosen. See how much does a driving licence cost.

By vehicle type

By age

Before the test