Linkoping

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Driver's License

Guidelines for obtaining or converting a driver’s license in Linkoping for newcomers and visitors.

Sections

1. Categories of Driver’s Licenses in Sweden

Sweden offers several categories of driver’s licenses, depending on the type of vehicle you wish to drive. The most common categories include:

  • AM: Mopeds (from age 15).
  • A1, A2, A: Motorcycles (varies by engine size and age).
  • B: Passenger cars and light vans (up to 3,500 kg, with a maximum of 8 passengers).
  • BE: Passenger cars with heavier trailers.
  • C1, C: Light and heavy trucks.
  • D1, D: Buses.
  • Taxi License: For professional taxi drivers.

For most individuals, the B license (passenger cars) is the most relevant. This guide will focus on obtaining a B license in Linköping.

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 the driving school you choose. Below is a breakdown of typical costs:

| Item | Approximate Cost (SEK) | |-----------------------------------|---------------------------| | Learner’s Permit (Körkortstillstånd) | 250 SEK | | Eye Test | 150–200 SEK | | Risk 1 Course (Riskutbildning 1) | 800–1,000 SEK | | Risk 2 Course (Riskutbildning 2) | 2,000–2,500 SEK | | Theory Test (Kunskapsprov) | 325 SEK | | Driving Test (Körprov) | 800 SEK | | Driving Lessons (per hour) | 600–800 SEK | | Study Materials (books/apps) | 500–1,000 SEK | | Estimated Total | 15,000–25,000 SEK |

Note: Costs can vary depending on the driving school and your individual needs.

3. Step-by-Step Procedure

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to obtaining a driver’s license in Linköping:

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

  • What it is: A learner’s permit is required before you can start practicing driving or taking lessons.
  • How to apply:
    1. Visit the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) website and fill out the application form.
    2. Complete an eye test at an optician in Linköping (e.g., Synsam or Specsavers).
    3. Submit the application and pay the fee (250 SEK).
  • Processing time: 1–2 weeks.

Step 2: Study for the Theory Test

  • Study materials: Purchase books or use apps like "Körkort nu med Elevcentralen" to prepare for the theory test.
  • Languages: The test is available in Swedish and English.
  • Local tip: Libraries in Linköping often have free resources for studying.

Step 3: Take the Risk Education Courses

  • Risk 1 (Riskutbildning 1): A theoretical course on the dangers of alcohol, drugs, and fatigue while driving.
  • Risk 2 (Riskutbildning 2): A practical course focusing on driving in hazardous conditions (e.g., slippery roads).
  • Where to take them in Linköping: Many driving schools, such as Linköpings Trafikskola, offer these courses.
  • Booking: Book directly with a driving school. Both courses must be completed before taking the driving test.

Step 4: Practice Driving

  • Options:
    1. Driving School: Enroll in a driving school for professional lessons. Popular options in Linköping include:
      • Linköpings Trafikskola
      • Körkortshuset
    2. Private Practice: Practice with a private supervisor (handledare) who has completed a supervisor course.
  • Local tip: Linköping has several practice areas and quieter roads for beginners, such as the outskirts of the city or industrial areas during off-hours.

Step 5: Take the Theory Test (Kunskapsprov)

  • Where: The theory test can be taken at the Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) office in Linköping.
  • What to expect: 70 multiple-choice questions covering traffic rules, road signs, and safe driving practices.
  • Passing score: 52/65 correct answers.

Step 6: Take the Driving Test (Körprov)

  • Where: The driving test is conducted at Trafikverket in Linköping.
  • What to expect:
    • Vehicle inspection (basic safety checks).
    • A 25–40 minute driving session, including urban, rural, and highway driving.
  • Local tip: Familiarize yourself with Linköping’s road network, including roundabouts and common test routes.

Step 7: Receive Your Driver’s License

  • If you pass both the theory and driving tests, your driver’s license will be mailed to your registered address within 1–2 weeks.

4. Local Considerations and Regulations

  • Driving Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a B license.
  • ID Requirements: A valid Swedish ID or residence permit is required for all applications.
  • Language Support: If you’re not fluent in Swedish, many driving schools and test centers offer services in English.
  • Eco-Driving: Sweden emphasizes eco-friendly driving practices, so expect questions and evaluations on fuel-efficient driving during tests.
  • Winter Driving: Linköping experiences harsh winters, so it’s advisable to practice driving in snowy and icy conditions.

5. Where to Go in Linköping for Driver’s License Services

Here are the key locations and services in Linköping:

Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket)

  • Address: Roxviksgatan 10, 582 73 Linköping
  • Services: Theory and driving tests.
  • Website: www.trafikverket.se

Driving Schools in Linköping

  1. Linköpings Trafikskola
  2. Körkortshuset

Opticians for Eye Tests

  1. Synsam Linköping
    • Address: Stora Torget 5, 582 19 Linköping
  2. Specsavers Linköping
    • Address: Nygatan 20, 582 19 Linköping

6. Additional Tips for Newcomers

  • Public Transport: While working on your license, Linköping has an excellent public transport system (Östgötatrafiken) with buses and trains.
  • Practice Areas: Use quieter areas like Tornby or outskirts of the city for private practice.
  • Cultural Note: Swedes are known for their strict adherence to traffic rules. Always follow speed limits, use seat belts, and avoid using your phone while driving.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to obtain your driver’s license in Linköping, Sweden. Good luck!