How do I obtain a Geneva driver’s license, step by step?

Would you like to take a driving test to obtain a Geneva driving license in Switzerland? You’ve come to the right place for the right information, because today it’s less of a hassle, especially with the new Swiss driving laws to get your license. In terms of driving, Switzerland is one of the 5 safest countries in Europe, with the lowest road fatalities, according to the European Transport Safety Council.

To further these efforts in this sector, Switzerland’s achievements are partly attributable to measures such as zero tolerance of drink-driving for novice drivers; and improved infrastructure safety, with more measures targeting the risks for young and novice drivers.

In this article, you’ll find all the information you need to obtain your Geneva driver’s license, step by step.

Geneva driver’s license: The driving test

The driving test consists of two parts (the theory test and the driving test). However, anyone who already has a driving licence is exempt from taking part in the theoretical part. To this end, you can apply for both tests (theory and practical driving) at the Cantonal Vehicle Office. Before you can take the theory test, you need to complete a 10-hour first-aid course recognized by the cantonal office.

Once you have done this, you can take the theory test. The theory test is usually taken in one of the national languages. If you pass the theory test, you’ll receive a provisional or learner’s permit. Once this stage is complete, you can begin the compulsory eight-hour road safety awareness course. The final stage is the practical driving test. Once you have passed this test, you will obtain a Swiss driver’s license issued in Geneva.

What to do and whom to contact to obtain a Geneva driver’s license?

The overall steps involved in obtaining a Geneva driver’s license are as follows:

• Complete ten hours of first aid training;
• Pass the driving theory test;
• Obtain a provisional permit or a learner’s permit;
• Complete eight hours of theoretical driving lessons on road awareness;
• Pass the practical test;
• Get a driver’s license in Geneva.

The driving theory test for the Geneva driver’s license

The driving test consists of a written test and a practical test. Applications for the theory and practical test can be made at the cantonal vehicle office. There are no compulsory courses for these exams, but ten hours of first aid training and eight hours of traffic awareness training with a certified organization are mandatory.

The theory book and the road book are available, and some driving schools such as the Auto-Moto-Ecole Lémanique offer driving courses driving courses. Study books for the theory test are available from most driving schools and bookshops. The theory test can only be taken in one of the three national languages: French, German or Italian.

In some cantons, it is possible to take the theory test in English or in one of the three national languages: French, German or Italian. For foreigners who do not speak one of these languages, a translator can be present. However, the translator must be certified by the Cantonal Vehicle Office.

Geneva provisional driving licenses

A learner’s permit or provisional driving license is issued once the applicant has passed the theory test. In order to pass the theoretical driving test, students must prove that they have taken the mandatory ten hours of first aid courses. Training for the first aid course can only be provided by a company certified by the Federal Roads Office. Application for a learner’s permit is made to the applicant’s cantonal vehicle office. The following documents are required:

• Proof of identity;
• Two color passport photos;
• A recent certificate (less than 2 years old) from an optician or doctor certified by the Road Traffic Office or OCAN;
• Student permit application form.

Geneva driving license: Theoretical courses on road safety

Once the candidate has received his or her learner’s permit, he or she can begin the compulsory eight hours of traffic awareness theory. This is an introduction to the most common accident causes and situations. In the canton of Geneva, the learner also received a certificate once the eight hours of awareness training had been completed.

When driving, learner drivers must be accompanied by a person aged 23 or over who has held a Geneva driving license for at least three years, and have a magnetic L on the rear of the car. It can be purchased in most supermarkets and service stations and can be made of plastic, stickers or magnets. The Geneva learner’s permit is valid for two years.

Practical driving test for Geneva driver’s license

During this test, the candidate is tested on his or her ability to drive, park and maneuver the vehicle. The following documents must be completed during the test:

• Proof of identity (passport, residence permit or identity card);
• A learner’s permit;
• Vehicle registration documents.
• Anyone who fails his or her practical driving test twice is not allowed to retake it; until a driving instructor has provided an attestation that the person has completed his or her driving training. If you fail your driving test more than three times, you will be referred to a psychologist. The latter will determine whether she is mentally fit to drive and whether she can have another go.

Geneva driver’s license: Additional tests required

Once the practical driving test has been passed, the driver receives a temporary driving licence valid for three years. During this period, the driver must attend two one-day training courses at an approved private test center. The first one-day course must be taken within six months of passing the temporary driving test.

Once the person has completed the additional driving courses, he or she receives a full Geneva driver’s license, valid indefinitely. The final driving license will only be issued at the end of the three-year period. Drivers over the age of 70 must undergo a medical examination every two years to ensure they are able to drive safely.

Foreign driver’s license exchange

In Geneva, foreign driving licenses are only used in private courses and can be used for up to one year. For continued driving or professional driving, after one year, the driver’s license must be changed to a national driver’s license. To make changes, you need to fill in the canton’s official permit exchange form. You must also present the following documents in person:

• Foreign driver’s license conversion form;
• Original foreign driver’s license;
• Certified optician certificate (less than 24 months);
• Color photo, passport size, full face;
• Identity card or passport / foreign identity card.

Depending on the country in which your driver’s license is issued, you may be able to exchange your foreign driver’s license directly for a Geneva driver’s license, or you may have to take a practical test.

Conclusion

So far we think you’ve had the minimum of information about the Geneva driver’s license. Our aim is to make your life easier by offering you easy ways and conditions to obtain your driver’s license without any hassle. With the help of professionals, you can immediately acquire automatic knowledge, increasing your chances of passing the exam itself.

It also helps you make faster progress. The driving school’s instructors will help you progress with their support. With documented courses your driving instructor will be able to help you better plan your assisted driving moments.

At any time during the training period, l ‘ Auto-Moto-Ecole Lémanique can save you the cost of all courses. However, if you have completed the compulsory courses and would simply like to take a driving course we have the right course for you, and our expertise can simplify your driving test.

Want to save money and learn efficiently, without sacrificing quality? Want to keep up to date with news from the Lémanique and mobility in general in the driving sector? Visit this site or contact Auto- Moto-École Lémanique !