Orebro

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Driver's License

Guidance on obtaining or transferring a driver’s license for residents planning to drive in Sweden.

Sections

1. Types of Driver’s Licenses in Sweden

In Sweden, driver’s licenses are categorized based on the type of vehicle you wish to drive. The most common categories are:

  • 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 a heavier trailer
  • C, CE: Trucks and heavy vehicles
  • D, DE: Buses
  • Taxi License: For professional taxi drivers

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

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 pass the tests on your first attempt. Below is a breakdown of typical costs:

| Item | Cost (SEK) | |-----------------------------------|----------------| | Learner’s Permit (Körkortstillstånd) | 250 | | Eye Test | 150–300 | | Risk 1 Course (Riskutbildning 1) | 800–1,200 | | Risk 2 Course (Riskutbildning 2) | 2,000–2,500 | | Theory Test (Kunskapsprov) | 325 (online) / 400 (in person) | | Driving Test (Körprov) | 800 | | Driving Lessons (per hour) | 600–800 | | Study Materials (books/apps) | 500–1,000 | | Total Estimated Cost | 15,000–25,000 |

Note: Costs may vary slightly depending on the driving school and testing center in Örebro.

3. Step-by-Step Procedure

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 for a learner’s permit.
    2. Undergo an eye test at an optician in Örebro (e.g., Synsam or Specsavers). The optician will send the results directly to Transportstyrelsen.
    3. Pay the application fee (250 SEK).
  • Processing time: 1–2 weeks.

Step 2: Study for the Theory Test

  • What to do:
    • Purchase study materials, such as books or apps (e.g., Körkortonline or Körkortsboken).
    • Familiarize yourself with Swedish traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
    • Consider enrolling in a driving school in Örebro for theory classes (optional but helpful).

Step 3: Complete the Risk Education Courses

  • Risk 1 (Riskutbildning 1): A mandatory theoretical course on the risks of alcohol, drugs, and fatigue while driving.
    • Duration: 3–4 hours.
    • Cost: 800–1,200 SEK.
    • Available at local driving schools in Örebro.
  • Risk 2 (Riskutbildning 2): A practical course on slippery road conditions and emergency maneuvers.
    • Duration: 3–4 hours.
    • Cost: 2,000–2,500 SEK.
    • Conducted at specialized facilities near Örebro.

Step 4: Practice Driving

  • Options:
    1. Driving School: Enroll in a driving school in Örebro (e.g., Örebro Trafikskola or My Driving Academy). Professional instructors will guide you through the process.
    2. Private Practice: If you have a supervisor (handledare) with a valid Swedish driver’s license, you can practice privately. Both you and your supervisor must complete a handledarkurs (supervisor course).
  • Local Tip: Örebro has several quiet residential areas and designated practice zones ideal for beginners.

Step 5: Take the Theory Test (Kunskapsprov)

  • What it is: A computer-based test with 70 multiple-choice questions on Swedish traffic laws, road signs, and driving safety.
  • Where to take it: At Trafikverket’s test center in Örebro.
  • Cost: 325 SEK (online) or 400 SEK (in person).
  • Passing score: 52/65 correct answers (5 questions are trial questions and not scored).

Step 6: Take the Driving Test (Körprov)

  • What it is: A practical driving test to assess your ability to drive safely and follow traffic rules.
  • Where to take it: Trafikverket’s test center in Örebro.
  • Cost: 800 SEK.
  • What to expect:
    • Vehicle inspection (lights, brakes, etc.).
    • Driving in various traffic conditions (urban, rural, highways).
    • Parking and reversing maneuvers.
  • Local Tip: Practice driving in Örebro’s city center and surrounding areas to familiarize yourself with local traffic patterns.

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 in Örebro

  • Driving Schools: Örebro has several reputable driving schools, such as Örebro Trafikskola and My Driving Academy. These schools often offer packages that include theory classes, driving lessons, and risk courses.
  • Public Transport: Örebro has an efficient public transport system, so you may not need a car immediately. However, having a driver’s license can be useful for exploring the surrounding countryside or commuting to areas with limited bus service.
  • Winter Driving: Örebro experiences snowy and icy conditions in winter. Consider taking additional lessons focused on winter driving to build confidence in these conditions.
  • Language Barrier: If you’re not fluent in Swedish, look for driving schools or test centers that offer services in English. Some study materials and apps are also available in English.

5. Additional Tips for Newcomers

  • Personal Identification Number (Personnummer): You’ll need a Swedish personal identification number to apply for a learner’s permit and book tests. If you don’t have one, contact the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to apply.
  • Booking Tests: Book your theory and driving tests well in advance, as slots can fill up quickly, especially in larger cities like Örebro.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice, the better your chances of passing the driving test on your first attempt. Use Örebro’s quieter neighborhoods for practice sessions.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to obtain your driver’s license in Örebro. Good luck, and drive safely!