How to Get a Driving Licence in Sweden: Step-by-Step Guide in English
Getting a Swedish category B driving licence is a clear process, but you must complete several official steps in the right order. This updated guide explains the learner’s permit, eye test, private driving practice, risk training, theory test, driving test and the important rule changes introduced in August 2026 — all in simple English.
Getting a Swedish Driving Licence: The Complete Process
Here is the full route for category B learners in Sweden.
A Swedish driving licence for a passenger car is usually called a category B driving licence. To get it, you must meet the official requirements and pass both the theory test and the practical driving test.
The two most important authorities are Transportstyrelsen and Trafikverket. Transportstyrelsen handles learner’s permits, driving licence rules and the issuing of the licence. Trafikverket handles the theory test, driving test, test booking, test payment and photography at test centres.
Many learners focus only on the theory test, but the Swedish driving licence process is larger than that. You need to understand the rules, complete the compulsory risk training, practise enough in real traffic and be ready to show safe, independent driving during the driving test.
Quick Overview
The most important facts before you start.
This is the ordinary passenger car licence. It is the most common licence for new drivers in Sweden.
You need a valid learner’s permit before you can practise driving and book the driving test.
The category B theory test has 70 multiple-choice questions. Five are sample questions and do not count towards your score.
The maximum score is 65, and you need 52 correct answers to pass the theory test.
Risk 1 and Risk 2 are compulsory for category B and must be completed before the theory test.
The category B theory test can be booked in British English through Trafikverket.
From 1 August 2026, neither the learner nor the supervisor needs the introductory course for private category B practice. The supervisor must still be approved by Transportstyrelsen.
If you pass a category B theory test on or after 19 August 2026, the result is valid for one year. Tests passed before that date remain valid for four months.
Before You Start: Do You Need a Swedish Licence?
The answer depends on where your current driving licence was issued.
A driving licence issued in an EEA country is generally valid in Sweden as long as it is valid in the country where it was issued. In some cases, you may also be able to exchange it for a Swedish driving licence.
Official information from TransportstyrelsenA driving licence issued outside the EEA is normally valid in Sweden until you have been a registered resident here for more than one year. There are exceptions, including special rules for licences from the United Kingdom and the Faroe Islands, and Transportstyrelsen may grant an exemption in certain temporary-residence situations. If your foreign licence is no longer valid in Sweden and cannot be exchanged, you may need to complete the Swedish licensing process.
Official non-EEA licence informationHow to Get a Driving Licence in Sweden: 10 Steps
Follow these steps from your first application to your final driving test.
Apply for a Learner’s Permit
Before you start learning to drive, you need a valid learner’s permit. In Swedish, this is called körkortstillstånd. You need it before you practise driving and before you book your first driving test with Trafikverket.
For category B, the application belongs to Group 1. You normally submit a health declaration and an eye test certificate. The Swedish Transport Agency issues a learner’s permit if you are considered suitable as a driver based on personal and medical circumstances.
Official learner’s permit information | Learner’s permit guide in English
Complete the Eye Test and Health Declaration
The eye test checks that your eyesight meets the medical requirements for safe driving. The health declaration includes questions about medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive safely.
Many opticians can send the eye test certificate digitally. If something is missing from your application, the process can take longer. It is therefore smart to complete this step early.
Apply for learner’s permit Group 1 | Documents needed for a Swedish driving licence
Arrange Private Driving Practice — No Handledarkurs Required
From 1 August 2026, the introductory training course (introduktionsutbildning or handledarkurs) is no longer required for private category B driving practice. Neither the learner nor the supervisor needs a valid introductory course to start private practice.
The other requirements still apply. The learner needs a valid körkortstillstånd, and the person supervising private practice must apply to Transportstyrelsen and be approved as a supervisor. During private practice, the supervisor is responsible and is considered the driver. The green-and-white ÖVNINGSKÖR sign must be clearly visible from behind.
Current supervisor rules at Transportstyrelsen | Official August 2026 rule update
Start Driving Practice and Theory Study Together
Driving practice is not only about controlling the car. You must learn how to read traffic situations, plan ahead, follow Swedish traffic rules and drive safely in different road and weather conditions.
The best method is to study theory while you practise driving. This helps you understand why the rules exist and how they apply in real traffic.
Official information about driving practice | Study the theory book in English
Study for the Swedish Theory Test
The theory test checks whether you have the knowledge required to drive safely and responsibly. You need to understand traffic rules, road signs, vehicle knowledge, environmental driving, risk awareness and safe behaviour in traffic.
Do not only memorise answers. Practice questions are useful, but the real goal is to understand the logic behind Swedish traffic rules and apply that knowledge in different situations.
How to pass the Swedish theory test in English | Best way to study for the Swedish theory test
Complete Risk 1 Training
Risk training is compulsory for category B. Part 1 focuses on alcohol, drugs, tiredness, distractions and other risky behaviour in traffic.
Risk 1 is not a normal driving lesson. It is a risk-awareness course designed to help you become a safer and more responsible driver.
Complete Risk 2 Training
Risk 2 is the practical part of the compulsory risk training. It is often called skid training and focuses on speed, safety margins, road grip and how different road and weather conditions affect the car.
Risk 2 is usually completed later in your training, when you can already control the car well enough to benefit from the course.
Trafikverket: obtaining a Swedish driving licence | Read our Risk 1 and Risk 2 guide
Book Your Theory Test and Driving Test
You book your tests through Trafikverket’s booking service or through your driving school. Trafikverket recommends booking the theory test and driving test in good time. One practical strategy is to book both, but leave enough time between them to retake the theory test before the driving test if necessary.
You must have a learner’s permit to book. You should also pay attention to cancellation rules, because late cancellation or failure to attend may still cost money.
Book tests at Trafikverket | How to book the Swedish theory test in English
Take the Theory Test
The category B theory test has 70 multiple-choice questions. Five are sample questions and do not count towards your score, so the maximum score is 65. You need 52 correct answers to pass.
The regular test time is 50 minutes. You must bring valid ID. You will also have your photo taken before your first theory test, so Trafikverket recommends arriving at least 30 minutes early.
New validity rule: if you pass the category B theory test on or after 19 August 2026, your passed result is valid for one year. If you passed before 19 August 2026, the result remains valid for four months. You must pass the driving test while the theory result is still valid.
Official category B theory test information | Theory test rules and passing score
Take the Driving Test and Receive Your Licence
During the driving test, you must show that you can apply your theory knowledge in real traffic. The test includes a safety check, special manoeuvres and driving in traffic. The examiner speaks Swedish during the driving test, and the practical test cannot be booked in another language. If you do not speak Swedish, Trafikverket can show you an information video in another language before the test begins.
If you take the driving test in an automatic car, your licence will normally receive condition 78, meaning you may only drive automatic cars. If you want to drive manual cars later, you need to pass a new driving test in a manual car.
If you pass and your theory test is still valid, the examiner reports the result to Transportstyrelsen. Your driving licence is then sent by recorded delivery and must be collected in person.
Can You Take the Swedish Theory Test in English?
Yes. The category B theory test can be booked in British English.
Trafikverket allows the category B theory test to be booked in several languages, including British English. You choose the language when you book the test.
There are also support options for people who need help during the theory test. Depending on your situation, you may be able to apply for extended test time, oral test support or a theory test with an interpreter.
The category B theory test can be booked in British English and other languages.
Official language informationIf you need special support, you may apply through Trafikverket before booking the test.
Official support informationCurrent Official Test Fees
These Trafikverket fees were checked in August 2026. Always verify the official price before booking because fees can change.
| Item | Typical official fee | Important note |
|---|---|---|
| Category B theory test | SEK 420 daytime / SEK 520 evening or weekend | Check Trafikverket before booking because fees can change. |
| Category B driving test | SEK 1000 daytime / SEK 1400 evening or weekend | Car hire may be charged separately if you use Trafikverket’s car. |
| Photo at Trafikverket | SEK 120 | The photo is taken before your first theory test. |
| Late cancellation or no-show | May still require payment | Always read the booking and cancellation rules before confirming. |
How to Prepare for the Swedish Theory Test in English
Use a structured method instead of only memorising random questions.
Many learners fail because they practise questions without understanding the theory behind them. A better strategy is to combine a theory book, explained questions, road sign practice and full mock tests.
- Start with the Swedish Driving Licence Theory Book in English.
- Learn road signs with the Swedish road signs guide.
- Practise explained questions on the Theory Questions page.
- Take the Free Theory Test first.
- Continue with full tests through Membership Plans.
Official Pages You Should Bookmark
Use these official pages before applying, booking or taking your tests.
FAQ
Common questions about getting a Swedish driving licence.
Do I still need a handledarkurs for private driving practice?
No. From 1 August 2026, the introductory training course is no longer required for private category B practice. The learner must still have a valid learner’s permit, and the private supervisor must still apply to Transportstyrelsen and be approved.
How long is the Swedish category B theory test valid?
A category B theory test passed on or after 19 August 2026 is valid for one year. If the test was passed before 19 August 2026, the previous four-month validity period applies. You must pass the driving test before your theory result expires.
Can I take the Swedish driving test in English?
No. The category B practical driving test cannot be booked in another language, and the examiner speaks Swedish during the test. If you do not speak Swedish, Trafikverket can show you a video in another language explaining the test before it begins.
How long does it take to get a driving licence in Sweden?
It depends on your experience, how often you practise, how quickly you complete the learner’s permit and risk training, and how available test times are. Read more: How long does it take to get a driving licence in Sweden?
Can I take the Swedish theory test in English?
Yes. The category B theory test can be booked in British English. You choose the language when booking your test. Read more: Can you take the Swedish theory test in English?
How many questions are in the Swedish theory test?
The category B theory test has 70 multiple-choice questions. Five are sample questions that do not count towards your score. The maximum score is 65, and you need 52 correct answers to pass. Read more: How many questions are in the Swedish theory test?
Do I need Risk 1 and Risk 2 before the theory test?
Yes. The compulsory risk training must be completed before you take the theory test for category B. Read more: Risk 1 and Risk 2 explained in English
What should I bring to the theory test?
You must bring valid ID. You should also arrive early because your photo is taken before your first theory test. Read more: What to bring to the Swedish theory test
What happens if I fail the Swedish theory test?
You will see whether you passed or failed immediately after the test. You will not see the exact questions you answered incorrectly, but you will receive information about the areas where you need improvement. Read more: What happens if you fail the Swedish theory test?
Prepare for the Swedish Theory Test in English
Engelskakorkort.se gives you everything you need to prepare for the Swedish driving theory test: a complete theory book in English, explained theory questions, Swedish road signs and full mock tests.
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