When can you take the driving test?
The starting point is the issue date on your learner permit, not your first driving lesson. The regular minimum age for the category B practical test is 18. Turning 20 during the learner period does not shorten it. Exceptions exist for certain vocational qualifications; ask your road traffic office whether one applies to you.
Two planning examples
- Permit issued on 15 October 2026 at age 17: the twelve months are completed on 15 October 2027. You still need to meet the other test admission requirements.
- Permit issued at age 19 years and eleven months: your next birthday does not end the learner period.
The old special provisions for people born between 2001 and 2003 concerned the original transition. They do not provide a shortcut for someone starting today. Following its evaluation, the Federal Council confirmed the arrangement in April 2026.
Who can accompany you?
Your accompanying driver must be at least 23, have held category B for at least three years and hold a full licence beyond the probationary period. They must be able to operate the handbrake. Display the blue L at the rear. For vehicles with an electric brake, read our electronic handbrake guide.
Make the learner period useful
Agree on a specific practice goal with your instructor before private drives. Start with tasks you have already been taught and increase the difficulty as your control improves. After a drive, discuss one thing that worked and one thing to practise again.
A simple log can record the date, practice goal and an unresolved question. It supports learning and does not replace an admission requirement. A fixed number of lessons cannot guarantee test readiness: have your progress assessed before booking the test.
Use the practice plan for accompanying drivers to choose a suitable task, discuss specific observations and use the existing practice drive journal.
The 2026 process and the change in 2027
In 2026, you need a learner permit to attend VKU, and must complete VKU before the practical test. From 1 January 2027, completing VKU becomes a requirement for registration for the basic theory test. If your training spans the new year, confirm the sequence for your case with your road traffic office.
See the learner permit guide for the application steps. Plan costs with our pricing overview and find available instructors through DriveLab locations.