Frequently Asked Questions

At what age can I start?

You can start certain procedures as early as 17 for category B. First aid and the eye test can even be done a bit earlier. Contact us to plan according to your birthday.

In what order should I complete the steps?

Recommended order: first aid and eye test, then learner's permit application, theory test, sensibilisation course, driving lessons, and finally the practical exam. Our "Steps to your licence" page guides you step-by-step.

How long does it take to get a licence?

It depends on your pace and exam availability. On average, allow a few months from the start of the process to the practical exam. A pack often helps you progress faster.

How much does it cost in total?

The budget varies mainly based on the number of driving lessons needed. Our packs bundle classroom courses at a discounted rate; the rest depends on your individual progress.

Can I start lessons before having my learner's permit?

No, a learner's permit is mandatory for driving on public roads. We can assist you with the paperwork alongside your theory and first aid to save time.

Car or motorcycle: what are the differences?

Cars fall under category B, while motorcycles fall under categories A1 and A. Motorcycles also require specific basic motorcycle courses. Age and training requirements differ depending on the category.

What is a probationary licence?

It is your first licence, valid for 3 years. During this period, you complete further training. If no serious offences occur, it then becomes a permanent licence.

What happens if I fail an exam?

Don't panic: you can retake it after a waiting period. We will review the areas to work on together and plan the next steps to give you the best chance of success.

Which classroom courses are required for the licence?

Two are required for all future drivers: first aid (10h, needed to submit the learner's permit application) and sensibilisation (8h, required to take the practical exam). The theory course is not mandatory, but it is the most effective way to pass the theory test on your first try.

How long do the courses last?

First aid: 10 hours spread over 2 days. Theory: 6 hours, with unlimited access to the course during its validity. Sensibilisation: 8 hours. Sessions take place on weekdays, evenings, or weekends depending on the dates.

Is there an exam at the end of the classroom courses?

No. Your attendance for the full duration and participation in exercises are sufficient: the certificate is issued to you at the end of the course.

Are theory and sensibilisation the same for cars and motorcycles?

Yes, they are common to categories A (motorcycle) and B (car). If you are getting both licences, you only take each course once.

I already have a licence: do I need to redo the first aid course?

No. If you already hold a category A or B licence, you don't need to redo the course. The first aid certificate is valid for 6 years.

When should I take the first aid course in my journey?

Ideally before your learner's permit application: the certificate is required to submit it to the OCV. Many students take it alongside theory to save time.

How does the free revision app work?

It is included in the theory course (value 20 CHF): you receive unlimited access for 1 year to all exam-style questions, so you can revise on your phone at your own pace until the big day.

What needs to be done before the theory course?

Nothing, there are no prerequisites for taking the course. However, to take the theory test, your learner's permit application must have been validated by the OCV (including the first aid certificate and eye test).

What if I don't feel ready after the theory course?

We've got you covered: you can come back to revise for free at the next course if you still have questions, and the revision app remains valid for 1 year. The practice test helps you see where you stand before booking your exam date.

Do I need a learner's permit for the sensibilisation course?

Yes, it is mandatory to participate in the course: you obtain it after passing your theory test. Take the sensibilisation course as soon as possible afterwards, ideally alongside your first lessons: the observation and anticipation techniques apply directly behind the wheel.

Is any equipment needed for first aid?

No equipment to bring, everything is provided: CPR mannequins, training defibrillators, course materials. Wear comfortable clothing, as there is practical floor work.

How many lessons are needed to pass the licence?

On average between 25 and 30 lessons depending on your pace and prior experience. During your first lesson, your driving instructor will do a personalized assessment to estimate your needs more precisely and adapt your pack.

Is there a mandatory minimum number of lessons?

No, there is no mandatory minimum for cars: it all depends on how comfortable you are behind the wheel. Your driving instructor will evaluate the ideal time to take the practical exam with you.

Can I choose between manual and automatic?

Yes, our vehicles are available in both manual and automatic: you choose based on your preference. Note: taking the exam in an automatic limits your licence to automatic vehicles.

Can I take lessons in the evening or on weekends?

Yes, our driving instructors are available in the evenings and on weekends to fit your work or student schedule. You can book your slots directly online.

Do the prices include exam fees?

Practical exam fees are to be paid directly to the OCV Geneva; they are not included in our packs. At SDS, you only pay for the training (lessons + mock exam).

I have a licence but haven't driven for years: can you help me?

Of course, this is one of the most frequent requests for refresher lessons. Our driving instructors support drivers returning after a long break, without judgment and at your own pace, using a dual-control vehicle if you prefer.

Can we work on a specific route?

Yes, this is a specialty of our refresher lessons: home-to-work commutes, motorways, tunnels, or car parks that make you anxious. We organize lessons around your real routes, in the conditions you face daily.

How many lessons for a refresher?

Generally, 3 to 5 lessons are enough. The first one serves as an evaluation, then your driving instructor will suggest an honest programme, without unnecessary lessons.

Category A1 or Category A licence: what's the difference?

The A1 licence covers 125cc motorcycles and scooters up to 11 kW. The A licence covers more powerful motorcycles: since 2021, you start with category A limited to 35 kW, then you can move to unlimited power after 2 years of experience. The training path changes depending on the target category: we'll be happy to guide you.

Basic motorcycle course: 4h or 12h?

12h if you don't have any motorcycle category on your licence yet. 4h if you already hold an A1 licence and are moving up to the higher category. If in doubt, the number of hours to follow is written on the right-hand side of your learner's permit.

Do I need to come with my own motorcycle?

No. Motorcycles and scooters are provided for the basic courses. For private lessons, you can ride with your own vehicle or one of ours: to be discussed with your driving instructor based on your project.

What equipment should I bring?

Certified equipment: helmet (we can lend you one if needed), gloves, motorcycle jacket and trousers, and high-top motorcycle boots. We'll be happy to advise you before your first course.

I've never ridden: can I sign up directly for the basic course?

The basic course is not a beginner's course: you must already know how to handle your two-wheeler. If you're starting from scratch, begin with a private introductory lesson with an instructor, then move on to the basic course with confidence.

Do you offer motorcycle refresher lessons?

Yes. If you hold a category A or A1 licence, book an individual lesson with one of our motorcycle instructors: same flexible hours as car refresher lessons. All the info is on our motorcycle and scooter page.

Can I pay in instalments?

Yes, several instalment payment options are available depending on the chosen pack. You can pay online via Stripe or directly with your driving instructor in cash or via Twint.

What payment methods do you accept?

Online: credit card via Stripe, PostFinance, and Twint. In person: cash and Twint directly with your driving instructor. All payments are secure.

How do pack credits work?

Each course or lesson included in your pack becomes a credit on your student account. You then book your courses and lessons from your student area at a pace that suits you.

Do my credits expire?

All our packs are valid for 18 months from the date of purchase. You have plenty of time to use them at your own pace from your student area.

Can I cancel or reschedule a course or lesson?

Courses and lessons are non-cancellable and non-refundable, even with a medical certificate. However, you can reschedule them for free by notifying us at least 72 working hours in advance by phone. After this deadline, the course or lesson is charged.

What happens if I arrive late or miss part of a classroom course?

Classroom courses must be attended in full to obtain the certificate. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the start: a delay of more than 10 minutes may result in being refused access to the course, with no refund possible.

Where can I find my credits and bookings?

In your student area: you can see your remaining credits, their expiration date, and your bookings, and you can book your next courses directly from your account.

Do I need to take an exam to exchange my licence?

It depends on your country of origin: some countries have an agreement with Switzerland, others do not. Send us a photo of your licence on WhatsApp and we'll reply within 24h with the exact procedure for your case.

Which countries are exempt from the exam?

Countries that have a recognition agreement with Switzerland (most European countries, and others). And good news if your country is not on the list: generally, only the practical exam is required, not the theory.

What is the deadline for the exchange?

You have 12 months after your arrival in Switzerland to exchange your licence. After this period, your foreign licence is no longer valid for driving here and the process becomes more complicated: don't delay.

What documents do I need to prepare?

Your original driving licence, an ID document, a passport photo, the application form, and a residence certificate. We check everything with you and help with translations if needed.

How much does the process cost?

OCV fees are approximately between 80 and 120 CHF depending on your situation. SDS support is added to this based on the chosen package, along with preparation lessons only if an exam is required.

Can I drive while waiting for my Swiss licence?

Yes, your foreign licence remains valid during your first 12 months of residence in Switzerland. This is precisely the window to use to complete the exchange smoothly.