Gothenburg

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Driver's License

Information on converting a foreign driver's license or obtaining a Swedish one for driving in Gothenburg.

Sections

1. Overview of Driver’s Licenses in Sweden

In Sweden, driver’s licenses are issued by the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) and the Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket). The most common license categories are:

  • Category B: For standard passenger cars (up to 3,500 kg and up to 8 passengers).
  • Category A1, A2, A: For motorcycles (varies by engine size and power).
  • Category AM: For mopeds.
  • Category C, CE, D, DE: For heavy vehicles like trucks and buses.

For most people, the Category B license is the one they will need for driving a car.

2. Steps to Obtain a Driver’s License in Gothenburg

Step 1: Apply for a Learner’s Permit (Körkortstillstånd)

Before you can start driving lessons or take the driving test, you must apply for a learner’s permit.

  • How to Apply:

    1. Visit the Swedish Transport Agency’s website and fill out the application for a learner’s permit.
    2. Complete a health declaration (hälsodeklaration) and undergo a vision test (synundersökning). Vision tests can be done at opticians in Gothenburg, such as Synsam or Specsavers.
    3. Pay the application fee (approx. SEK 150).

  • Processing Time: It usually takes 1-2 weeks to receive your learner’s permit.

Step 2: Study for the Theory Test

You’ll need to study the Swedish traffic rules, road signs, and driving regulations. Recommended resources include:

  • The official Körkortsboken (Driver’s License Book), available in Swedish and English.
  • Online platforms like Körkortonline.se for practice tests.

Step 3: Enroll in a Driving School (Optional)

While it’s not mandatory to attend a driving school, it’s highly recommended, especially for new drivers or those unfamiliar with Swedish traffic laws. Gothenburg has several reputable driving schools, such as:

  • Göteborgs Trafikskola
  • Hisingens Trafikskola
  • Körkortsspecialisterna

Driving schools offer both theory and practical lessons. Costs vary but expect to pay around SEK 600–800 per lesson.

Step 4: Risk Education (Riskutbildning)

You must complete two mandatory risk education courses:

  1. Risk 1: A theory-based course on the dangers of alcohol, drugs, and fatigue while driving.
  2. Risk 2: A practical course on slippery road conditions and emergency maneuvers (often called the "slippery track" or halkbana).
  • Cost: Around SEK 800–2,000 for both courses.
  • Booking: These courses can be booked through your driving school or directly with providers in Gothenburg.

Step 5: Take the Theory Test (Kunskapsprov)

The theory test is conducted at Trafikverket’s test centers, including one in Gothenburg.

  • Format: 70 multiple-choice questions (you must answer at least 52 correctly to pass).
  • Languages: Available in Swedish and English.
  • Cost: SEK 325 (plus SEK 125 for evening/weekend tests).

Step 6: Take the Practical Driving Test (Körprov)

The practical test assesses your ability to drive safely and follow traffic rules. It includes:

  • Vehicle checks (e.g., lights, tires).

  • Driving in urban and rural areas.

  • Parking and reversing.

  • Cost: SEK 800 (plus SEK 400 for evening/weekend tests).

  • Vehicle: You can use your driving school’s car or rent one from Trafikverket.

Step 7: Receive Your Driver’s License

If you pass both the theory and practical tests, you’ll receive your Swedish driver’s license by mail within 1-2 weeks.

3. Costs Involved

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate costs for obtaining a driver’s license in Gothenburg:

| Item | Cost (SEK) | |---------------------------------|----------------| | Learner’s Permit Application | 150 | | Vision Test | 100–200 | | Risk 1 Course | 800–1,000 | | Risk 2 Course | 1,500–2,000 | | Theory Test | 325 | | Practical Test | 800 | | Driving Lessons (per lesson) | 600–800 | | Study Materials (Körkortsboken) | 300–500 | | Total Estimated Cost | 15,000–25,000 |

4. Validity of Foreign Licenses

If you already hold a driver’s license from another country, the rules for using or converting it depend on where it was issued:

EU/EEA Licenses

  • Valid in Sweden as long as they are valid in the issuing country.
  • No need to convert unless you want a Swedish license.

Non-EU/EEA Licenses

  • Valid for up to 1 year after moving to Sweden.
  • After 1 year, you must obtain a Swedish license by passing the theory and practical tests (you do not need to complete the risk education courses).

Converting a Foreign License

  • Some non-EU/EEA countries have agreements with Sweden, allowing for direct conversion without testing (e.g., Switzerland, Japan).
  • To convert, submit an application to the Swedish Transport Agency and pay the fee (approx. SEK 600).

5. Specific Considerations for Gothenburg

  • Tram System: Gothenburg has an extensive tram network, and drivers must be cautious when navigating around trams and tram stops.
  • Winter Driving: Winter conditions in Gothenburg can be challenging. Ensure you are familiar with using winter tires (mandatory from December 1 to March 31) and driving on icy roads.
  • Congestion Tax: Gothenburg has a congestion tax (trängselskatt) for vehicles entering the city center during peak hours. Be aware of this if you plan to drive frequently in the city.

6. Local Driving Schools in Gothenburg

Here are some recommended driving schools in Gothenburg:

  1. Göteborgs Trafikskola
    Website: www.goteborgstrafikskola.se
    Offers comprehensive courses in English.

  2. Hisingens Trafikskola
    Website: www.hisingenstrafikskola.se
    Known for its flexible scheduling and experienced instructors.

  3. Körkortsspecialisterna
    Website: www.korkortsspecialisterna.se
    Specializes in intensive driving courses.

7. Additional Tips

  • Practice Driving: If you have a learner’s permit, you can practice driving with a private supervisor (handledare) who has completed a supervisor course.
  • Language Support: If you’re not fluent in Swedish, look for driving schools and test centers that offer services in English.
  • Plan Ahead: Testing slots can fill up quickly, so book your theory and practical tests well in advance.

By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining a driver’s license in Gothenburg, Sweden. Let me know if you need further assistance!