Jonkoping
Driver's License
Information for immigrants regarding obtaining, converting, or using a driver's license in Jonkoping.
Sections
1. Types of Driver’s Licenses in Sweden
In Sweden, driver’s licenses are categorized based on the type of vehicle. The most common types are:
- AM: For mopeds, light quadricycles, and motorized bicycles (minimum age: 15).
- A1, A2, A: For motorcycles of varying engine sizes (minimum age: 16 for A1, 18 for A2, and 24 for A).
- B: For passenger cars and light vans (maximum weight: 3,500 kg). This is the most common license.
- BE: For cars with heavier trailers.
- C, CE: For trucks and heavy vehicles.
- D, DE: For buses and coaches.
For this guide, we will focus on the B license (passenger cars), as it is the most relevant for most residents and visitors in Jönköping.
2. Costs Involved
The total cost of obtaining a driver’s license in Sweden can vary depending on your prior experience, the number of lessons you need, and whether you choose to practice privately or through a driving school. Below is a breakdown of typical costs:
- Learner’s Permit (Körkortstillstånd): SEK 150
- Eye Test (Synundersökning): SEK 100–200
- Driving Lessons (Optional): SEK 600–800 per lesson (average of 10–15 lessons recommended if you’re new to driving)
- Risk 1 Course (Riskutbildning 1): SEK 800–1,000
- Risk 2 Course (Riskutbildning 2): SEK 2,000–2,500
- Theory Test (Kunskapsprov): SEK 325 (weekday) or SEK 400 (weekend)
- Practical Driving Test (Körprov): SEK 800 (weekday) or SEK 1,040 (weekend)
- License Issuance Fee: SEK 280
- Driving School Package (Optional): SEK 15,000–25,000 (includes lessons, risk courses, and test fees)
Estimated Total Cost: SEK 15,000–30,000, depending on your preparation and whether you use a driving school.
3. Step-by-Step Procedure
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to obtaining a B driver’s license in Jönköping:
Step 1: Apply for a Learner’s Permit (Körkortstillstånd)
- What to Do: Submit an application to the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen).
- How to Apply:
- Fill out the application form online at Transportstyrelsen’s website.
- Complete an eye test (Synundersökning) at an optician in Jönköping (e.g., Synsam or Specsavers).
- Submit the eye test results along with your application.
- Cost: SEK 150 for the application + SEK 100–200 for the eye test.
- Processing Time: 1–2 weeks.
Step 2: Study for the Theory Test
- What to Do: Study the Swedish driving rules and traffic laws.
- How to Prepare:
- Purchase a theory book and/or use online resources like Körkortonline.se.
- Download apps like “Körkort nu med Elevcentralen” for practice tests.
- Consider enrolling in a driving school in Jönköping (e.g., Jönköpings Trafikskola or My Driving Academy).
- Cost: SEK 500–1,000 for study materials.
Step 3: Take the Risk Education Courses
- What to Do: Complete two mandatory risk education courses:
- Risk 1 (Riskutbildning 1): A theoretical course on the risks of alcohol, drugs, and fatigue while driving.
- Risk 2 (Riskutbildning 2): A practical course on slippery road conditions and emergency maneuvers.
- Where to Take It: Driving schools or certified centers in Jönköping.
- Cost: SEK 800–1,000 for Risk 1 and SEK 2,000–2,500 for Risk 2.
Step 4: Practice Driving
- What to Do: Gain practical driving experience.
- Options:
- Private Practice: You can practice with a supervisor (handledare) who has a valid Swedish driver’s license and has completed a supervisor course.
- Driving School: Enroll in a driving school for professional lessons.
- Cost: SEK 600–800 per lesson (if using a driving school).
Step 5: Take the Theory Test (Kunskapsprov)
- What to Do: Book and take the theory test at Trafikverket’s office in Jönköping.
- Test Details:
- 70 multiple-choice questions (52 correct answers required to pass).
- Available in Swedish and other languages (English is an option).
- Cost: SEK 325 (weekday) or SEK 400 (weekend).
- Location: Trafikverket Förarprov, Jönköping.
Step 6: Take the Practical Driving Test (Körprov)
- What to Do: Book and take the practical driving test at Trafikverket.
- Test Details:
- Includes vehicle safety checks, driving in traffic, and parking.
- You can use your driving school’s car or rent one from Trafikverket.
- Cost: SEK 800 (weekday) or SEK 1,040 (weekend).
- Location: Trafikverket Förarprov, Jönköping.
Step 7: Pay the License Issuance Fee
- What to Do: Once you pass both tests, pay the issuance fee to receive your driver’s license.
- Cost: SEK 280.
- Delivery: Your license will be mailed to your registered address within 1–2 weeks.
4. Required Documents
To complete the process, you’ll need the following:
- Valid ID (e.g., Swedish ID card or passport).
- Completed application for the learner’s permit.
- Eye test results.
- Proof of completed risk education courses.
- Payment receipts for tests and fees.
5. Local Considerations and Tips
- Language Support: If you’re not fluent in Swedish, request the theory test in English or another available language. Some driving schools in Jönköping also offer lessons in English.
- Winter Driving: Jönköping experiences harsh winters, so it’s a good idea to practice driving in snowy and icy conditions. The Risk 2 course will help prepare you for this.
- Public Transport: While obtaining a driver’s license, you can rely on Jönköping’s efficient public transport system (buses and trains) to get around.
- Booking Tests Early: Test slots at Trafikverket can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Book your theory and practical tests well in advance.
- Driving Schools: Popular driving schools in Jönköping include Jönköpings Trafikskola and My Driving Academy. They offer comprehensive packages that can simplify the process.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to obtain your driver’s license in Jönköping, Sweden. Good luck, and drive safely!