Sundsvall

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Driver's License

Guidelines for driving in Sundsvall and recognition of foreign driver's licenses.

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 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 heavier trailers.
  • C1, C: Light and heavy trucks.
  • D1, D: Light and heavy buses.
  • Taxi License: For professional taxi drivers.

For most residents, the B license (for cars) is the most relevant. This guide will focus on obtaining a B license, but the process is similar for other categories.

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:

  • Learner’s Permit (Körkortstillstånd): SEK 150
  • Eye Test: SEK 150–300 (varies by provider)
  • Driving Lessons: SEK 600–800 per lesson (average of 10–15 lessons recommended)
  • Risk 1 Course (Riskutbildning 1): SEK 700–900
  • Risk 2 Course (Riskutbildning 2): SEK 2,000–2,500
  • Theory Test (Kunskapsprov): SEK 325 (weekday) / SEK 400 (weekend)
  • Practical Driving Test (Körprov): SEK 800 (weekday) / SEK 1,040 (weekend)
  • Photo for License: SEK 80
  • Issuance of Driver’s License: SEK 280

Estimated Total Cost: SEK 15,000–25,000, depending on the number of lessons and test attempts.

3. Step-by-Step Procedure to Obtain a Driver’s License

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

  • What You Need:
    • Complete an online application through the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) website.
    • Submit a health declaration and pass an eye test (can be done at an optician in Sundsvall).
  • Cost: SEK 150 for the application + SEK 150–300 for the eye test.
  • Processing Time: 1–2 weeks.

Step 2: Start Driving Practice

  • You can practice driving with:
    • A certified driving school (Trafikskola).
    • A private supervisor (handledare) if you register for private lessons. The supervisor must complete a training course and be approved by the Transportstyrelsen.
  • Local Tip: Sundsvall has several driving schools, such as Sundsvalls Trafikskola and Körkortshuset, which offer lessons in English if needed.

Step 3: Complete the Risk Education Courses

  • Risk 1 (Riskutbildning 1): A theoretical course on the risks of driving, including alcohol, drugs, and fatigue.
  • Risk 2 (Riskutbildning 2): A practical course focusing on driving in hazardous conditions (e.g., icy roads).
  • Both courses are mandatory and must be completed before taking the driving tests.

Step 4: Study for the Theory Test

  • Use study materials such as books, apps, and online resources. Popular options include Körkortonline.se and the Körkortsboken (Driver’s License Book).
  • Local Tip: Sundsvall’s library may have resources for studying, and some driving schools offer theory classes in English.

Step 5: Take the Theory Test (Kunskapsprov)

  • Book the test through the Swedish Transport Agency’s website.
  • The test consists of 70 multiple-choice questions, and you need at least 52 correct answers to pass.
  • Location in Sundsvall: The test center is located at Trafikverket Förarprov Sundsvall.

Step 6: Take the Practical Driving Test (Körprov)

  • The test includes:
    • A safety check of the vehicle.
    • Driving in various traffic conditions (urban, rural, highways).
  • Local Tip: Sundsvall’s test routes often include hilly terrain and roundabouts, so practice these areas beforehand.

Step 7: Receive Your Driver’s License

  • If you pass both tests, your license will be issued and sent to your registered address within 5 working days.

4. Specific Local Considerations in Sundsvall

  • Weather Conditions: Sundsvall experiences snowy and icy roads in winter. Ensure you practice driving in winter conditions and learn how to use studded or winter tires (mandatory from December 1 to March 31).
  • Hilly Terrain: Sundsvall is known for its hills, so practice hill starts and driving on inclines.
  • Public Transport: Sundsvall has a reliable public transport system, so you may not need a car for daily commuting. However, a driver’s license is useful for exploring the surrounding countryside and smaller towns.

5. Cultural and Practical Tips for Driving in Sundsvall

  • Follow Traffic Rules Strictly: Sweden has strict traffic laws, including speed limits (50 km/h in urban areas, 70–90 km/h on rural roads, and 110–120 km/h on highways).
  • Right-Hand Traffic: Sweden drives on the right side of the road.
  • Roundabouts: These are common in Sundsvall. Always yield to vehicles already in the roundabout.
  • Wildlife Warning: Be cautious of moose and deer, especially when driving in rural areas or at dawn/dusk.
  • Parking: Sundsvall has both free and paid parking zones. Use the Parkster app to pay for parking in the city.
  • Eco-Friendly Driving: Sweden encourages eco-friendly driving. Many cars are hybrids or electric, and charging stations are available throughout Sundsvall.

6. Additional Resources

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