Car theory test – 5 steps to your learner’s license
Before you can apply for a category B (car) learner’s license, you must first pass the car theory test. You can do this at the road traffic office in your canton of residence. Find out in this article how you can best prepare for this exam and what you need for it.
In 5 simple steps to the theory test car
You need an emergency helper course that is not older than 6 years.
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Application forms
Zürich
Berne
Lucerne
Zug
Aargau
St. Gallen
Uri
Obwalden
Nidwalden
Glarus
Solothurn
Basel-Stadt
Basel-Landschaft
Schaffhausen
Appenzell-Ausserrhoden
Appenzell-Innerrhoden
Graubünden
Thurgau
Fribourg
Learning for the car theory test
The best way to prepare for the theory test is to use a theory app. The learning apps often have very good explanations to make questions easier to understand. As a rule, you no longer need a theory book. Allow around 5-10 hours of learning time with a theory app. You can find out everything you need to learn for the theory test in the asa’s competence catalog for the car theory test. The asa is the association of road traffic authorities and also produces the question catalog. The theory questions are 80% publicly accessible and so the same licensed asa questions are usually asked in the learning apps. Nevertheless, there are some differences between the learning apps that we don’t want to withhold from you.
Learning tips
To make good progress in learning the theory, we recommend the following strategies:
- Find a quiet place to concentrate on your studies
- Switch on the “Do not disturb” mode in your cell phone
- Try to set aside at least half an hour every day for studying
- Gain a deeper understanding of traffic situations by going through the traffic rules or watching videos about the situations
- Reward yourself! Learning is successful when it is fun.
The 5 best learning apps for car theory in Switzerland
Advantages
- Free of charge
- Super images
- Explanations with reference to legal articles
Disadvantages
- Few updates
Advantages
- Very popular app
- Best rating among the theory apps
- Many updates
- Different languages
Disadvantages
- None
Advantages
- Good English translation
- Entertaining mode for learning
- Many languages available (remember that you can only take the theory test in 4 languages)
Disadvantages
- The most expensive app
- Advertises with “100% original questions as on the theory exam” which cannot be true (only 80% of the questions go to licensees).
- Not so well rated
Advantages
- Developed by driving instructors
- Cheap
- Turbo test
Disadvantages
Somewhat few updates
From numerous feedbacks from our learner drivers, the Easytheory app seems to be the best. In a direct comparison, the English-speaking learner drivers preferred the Theorie24 app.
Theory test car registration
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the car theory test
When can I take the car theory test?
If you take the theory test for the car, you can take the test at the earliest one month before your 17th birthday. But there is another little trick: the theory test for the car is the same as the one for the motorcycle (basic theory test). As you can take the A1 category at the age of 15, you can register for the basic theory test one month in advance. The theory test is valid indefinitely. It doesn’t matter whether you have obtained your A1 driving license or not.
Is the car theory test difficult in Switzerland?
If you study hard with the app, you’re sure to pass the exam. Most learn between 5 to 10 hours with the app. If you do not pass the exam, you can repeat it as often as you like.
What do I need to bring to the theory test?
You only need an ID or passport for the theory test. The exam takes place on a computer or tablet.
How much does the theory test cost in Switzerland?
This varies from canton to canton. The prices range between CHF 20 and CHF 45.
When can I start attending a car driving school?
You can take driving lessons from the day you have your valid learner’s permit. So at the earliest on your 17th birthday. After the theory test, it usually takes 2-3 working days before you receive your learner’s permit.
Can I take the theory test in a different canton?
Yes. If you are working or studying in another canton, for example, you can apply for an examination location permit. You can find this form “Application to take the test in another canton” on the website of the road traffic office in your canton of residence. It’s best to tick the practical test as well. Otherwise you will have to pay the fee of around CHF 20 twice.
In which languages can I take the theory test in Switzerland?
You can take the exam in all cantons in German, French, Italian and English . Unfortunately, English is not possible for other categories such as cab, boat or truck.
How long is the theory test valid?
Since January 1, 2021, the theory test has been valid indefinitely.
