Motorcycle basic course in Switzerland

The Grundkurs is the mandatory practical basic training for a first motorcycle or scooter licence, also called PGS (praktische Grundschulung). It consists of twelve hours, delivered by DriveLab in three parts of four hours. It is one stage of training; the remaining steps depend on any licence you already hold.

All three parts cost CHF 500 in Zurich or CHF 480 in Lucerne. Winterthur shows the price in its booking schedule. Zug currently directs you to Zurich and Lucerne courses. The amount shown before you book is binding. Extra lessons, vehicle costs, VKU and official fees are separate.

Complete all twelve hours within four months of the learner permit being issued and use the same permit throughout. After completing the course, the permit remains valid for another year after those four months. Leave room in your schedule for a possible date change.

No. A full basic course completed from 1 January 2021 does not have to be repeated when upgrading. The usual practical test for category A still applies. Older A 35 kW licences can also qualify for a test exemption; the permit and test dates determine this.

For A1 obtained between 1 April 2003 and 31 December 2020, upgrading to A 35 kW normally requires four additional hours (Part 3). A1 licences from before April 2003 and full basic training completed from 2021 have different exemptions. Have your specific licence checked before booking.

With category B, apply for an A1 learner permit and complete the required twelve-hour basic course within four months. The road traffic office can then add A1 without a practical test. Booking the course alone does not add the category to your licence.

Bring your valid learner permit, vehicle registration and a roadworthy motorcycle or scooter of the matching category with an L-plate. Bring an approved helmet and suitable motorcycle gloves, jacket, trousers and ankle-protecting footwear. Check your course group’s equipment requirements and arrive with enough fuel or charge.

Zurich offers course groups specifically taught in English. The language is shown with each group. Lucerne courses are taught in German. An English webpage does not automatically mean the practical course is taught in English; check the group before booking.

Usually yes: riding in wet conditions is part of motorcycling. In dangerous conditions such as snow, ice or thunderstorms, the instructor decides on changes or a replacement date. Follow your group’s updates and bring weather-appropriate protective clothing.

There is no general mandatory number of extra lessons. Lessons help address specific uncertainties and assess readiness for the test. The useful amount depends on your experience and the skills you can demonstrate safely. The basic course does not guarantee a test pass.

From 1 January 2027, VKU must be completed before registering for the basic theory test. It will also cover driver-assistance and automation systems. During 2026, a first A1 or A licence still requires VKU before the practical test. Your road traffic office can clarify transitional cases.