Probationary driving licence
The first licence obtained for a motorcycle or a car is issued on a probationary basis, for a three-year probationary period.
Who is affected?
A category A or B driving licence obtained for the first time is issued on a probationary basis. The probationary period is three years. This rule does not apply to people who already hold a permanent licence in one of these categories.
Sub-categories and special categories obtained before or during the probationary licence also remain restricted until the end of the probationary period.
Mandatory further training course
Holders of the probationary driving licence must take the prescribed further training course during the probationary period.
In case of an offence during the probationary period
- a moderately serious or serious offence resulting in the withdrawal of the licence extends the probationary period by one year, counted from the expiry of the withdrawn probationary licence (or, if the withdrawal occurs after the probationary period, from the return of the licence);
- a second moderately serious or serious offence resulting in a withdrawal renders the probationary licence void (cancellation), including for sub-categories and special categories already obtained;
- after a cancellation, a new learner licence may not be issued earlier than one year after the offence, and only on the basis of a psychological assessment confirming fitness to drive. This period is extended by one year if the person concerned drove a motorcycle or a car during that time.
Permanent licence
After the probationary period, the permanent driving licence is issued to the holder if they have taken the prescribed further training course. Failing that, the cantonal authority issues only a restricted driving authorisation, or a permanent licence limited to the special categories and sub-category A1.