Driving theory test in Switzerland
The driving theory test is an important step. After all, before getting behind the wheel, you should know the rules of the road. Comparis explains.
14.08.2024
iStock/Liudmila Chernetska
1. The driving theory test – what does it involve?
The theory test allows you to demonstrate your knowledge of the rules of the road. Did you pass the exam? Then you’ll receive your provisional driving licence. This allows you to take driving lessons and practise on the roads.
The driving theory test is a multiple-choice exam taken on a computer. In other words: you choose the correct answer from three options. There may be more than one correct answer.
Once you’ve passed the test, it is valid indefinitely. However, in Switzerland you are subject to a probation period once you pass your practical driving test. If you’re caught breaking the road traffic rules twice while you’re still on probation, your theory test will no longer be valid.
In the event of a prolonged driving ban, the authorities may instruct you to take a new theory test.
Driving theory test: how many questions and mistakes?
The test consists of 50 questions.
You get three points per completely correct answer.
Maximum score: 150 points.
If you collect more than 15 penalty points, you’ll unfortunately fail the test.
Test time: max. 45 minutes.
Driving theory test: conditions
The minimum age for the category B provisional driving licence is 17 years. You may take the theory test one month before your 17th birthday at the earliest. Before you can sign up, you’ll need to take an eye test and complete a first aid course.
Cost of the theory test
The cost of the driving theory test varies by canton. You can check with the road traffic office. Here’s a few examples: in Aargau, Bern or Solothurn, you pay 30 francs for the theory test. In Zurich, it’s 36 francs.
However, there are often additional fees for applying for and issuing the provisional driving licence. These may be higher than the cost of the theory test itself.
Cars are normally in category B. Do you already have a licence for category A, A1 or B1? Then you don’t have to take a theory test specifically for driving a car.
2. How do I register for the theory test?
The theory test takes place at the road traffic office in your canton of residence. You must therefore contact your local road traffic office to register. The process looks like this:
You apply for a provisional driving licence. For this, you’ll need the results of your eye test and proof of having taken a first aid course.
The road traffic office will send you the access data for online registration for the theory test by post.
You choose your exam date.
You can choose between German, French or Italian for the language of the test. English is also possible in some cantons. An adapted examination procedure exists for people with special requirements.
3. Which is the best theory test app?
There are many apps you can use to prepare for the theory exam. Find out which app suits you best with a free demo version.
The ASA (Association of Road Traffic Offices) maintains a list of suitable learning materials for the theory test (not available in English). These contain original questions licensed by the ASA.
| App | Full version price | Demo version? | App Store rating | Google Play rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blink | CHF 19.00 (App Store) CHF 19.00 (Google Play) |
Yes | 4.6 | 4.2 |
| Theorie 24 | CHF 24.00/year (App Store) CHF 24.00/year (Google Play) |
Yes | 4.7 | 4.2 |
| Fahrlehrer 24 | CHF 19.50 (App Store) CHF 19.50 (Google Play) |
No | 4.7 | 4.6 |
| Auto Theorie | CHF 25.00 (App Store) CHF 19.00 (Google Play) |
Yes | 4.6 | 4.3 |
| Easydriver | CHF 50.00 for category B (App Store) CHF 50.00 for category B (Google Play) |
Yes | 2.5 | 3.4 |
| iTheorie | CHF 19.95 (App Store) CHF 19.00 (Google Play) |
No | 4.7 | 4.5 |
| eDriver | CHF 30.00 (App Store) CHF 30.00 (Google Play) |
No | 5 | 2.6 |
4. Driving theory test: what questions can I expect?
The examination questions are based on a “skills catalogue” (not available in English). This states what you need to know. It includes the following topics:
Priority/right of way, prohibitions, signs (e.g. roundabouts, driving restrictions, road markings)
Driving manoeuvres (e.g. bends, lane positioning, distance from other vehicles)
Traffic environment (e.g. motorways, traffic jams, level crossings)
Vehicle drivers (e.g. ability to drive, children, insurance)
Vehicle (e.g. operating safety, load securing, vignette)
Online theory test
You’ll only see the exact questions of the test in the actual exam. The wording changes often. At the Association of Road Traffic Offices (ASA), you’ll find an online demo with 20 questions (not available in English). This will give you an idea of what the exam might look like.
Want to test your knowledge? Prove your comprehension with our quiz. Important: there is only one correct answer for each of these questions.
5. You failed your theory test – what now?
Not everyone will pass their theory test the first time. But don’t give up: you can repeat the theory test as many times as you like. However, you must wait at least two weeks before you can try again.
Please note: your eye test is only valid for two years. If you wait more than six years, you’ll also need to repeat the first aid course.
This article was first published on 11.08.2023
