A Look At Swedish Driving License For Foreigners's Secrets Of Swedish Driving License For Foreigners

October 11, 2025

Navigating the Swedish Driving License Process for Foreigners

Sweden is renowned for its stunning landscapes, innovative style, and effective public services, making it an attractive location for foreigners. One of the essential aspects of living or checking out Sweden for a prolonged duration is the ability to drive. Whether it's a beautiful roadway trip across the countryside or daily commuting, getting a Swedish driving license can be a pivotal part of settling into life in Sweden. This blog post will supply an extensive appearance at the process of acquiring a Swedish driving license for foreigners, consisting of essential documents, procedures, expenses, and often asked questions.

Understanding the Swedish Driving License

The Swedish driving license (Körkort) is a legal requirement for operating a lorry in Sweden. It serves as proof of skills to drive and is a necessary recognition document. The Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) governs the issuance and regulation of driving licenses.

Kinds Of Driving Licenses

In Sweden, there are a number of classes of driving licenses, depending upon the type of car you plan to drive. The most typical classifications are:

License Type

Car Type

Age Requirement

Class B

Automobiles (as much as 3.5 tons)

18 years

Class A

Motorbikes (up to 125cc)

18 years

Class BE

Cars and trucks with trailers (over 750 kg)

18 years

Class C

Large cars (over 3.5 tons)

21 years

Class D

Guest transport lorries (buses)

24 years

For foreigners, it is vital to clarify which class of license is required based on their automobile use.

Eligibility Criteria for Foreigners

Foreigners looking for a Swedish driving license needs to satisfy numerous conditions:

Residency: The candidate must be a resident in Sweden and hold a valid individual identification number (personnummer).
Age: The candidate must satisfy the minimum age requirement for the wanted license class.
Language Proficiency: Theory and driving tests are performed in Swedish. Efficiency in the language is important to comprehending the questions and instructions. Nevertheless, some cities may offer tests in English and other languages.
Medical exam: Depending on the license class, candidates may need to go through a medical checkup to ensure they fulfill fitness and health requirements.

The Process of Obtaining a Swedish Driving License

Acquiring a Swedish driving license involves several actions. Here's an in-depth summary of the process:

Step 1: Obtain a Learner's Permit (Körkortstillstånd)

Before starting the useful aspects of driving, you must obtain a student's permit. This is the primary step in the licensing process.

Requirements:

Submit an application to the Swedish Transport Agency.
Supply a legitimate recognition document (passport or residence permit).
Pass a vision test (available from most opticians).
Pay the application cost (roughly 150-250 SEK).

Step 2: Complete a Traffic School or Driving Lessons

While not compulsory, it is extremely suggested to enlist in a certified driving school. Traffic schools supply essential understanding and useful skills important for passing the driving test.

Action 3: Pass the Theory Exam

When you feel ready, you can set up the theory examination.

Exam Details:

The exam includes 70 questions connecting to roadway indications, traffic rules, and safe driving practices.
A passing mark is 52 out of 70.
The charge for the exam is around 325 SEK.

Step 4: Pass the Practical Driving Test

Following the successful completion of the theory exam, you can schedule the useful driving test.

Test Details:

The useful test typically lasts about 40 minutes.
The test includes numerous driving maneuvers, such as parking, lane changing, and complying with traffic regulations.
The cost for the useful test is roughly 800 SEK.

Step 5: Receive Your Driving License

Upon passing both tests, applicants can officially request their driving license. If you currently hold a legitimate driving license from your native land, it might help expedite the process.

Application Steps:

Submit the required documents to the Swedish Transport Agency.
Pay the releasing cost (about 250-800 SEK depending upon the license class and validity period).

Secret Considerations

If you hold a driving license from another EU/EEA country, you might not need to go through all steps. You can usually exchange your license for a Swedish one without additional testing.
If you hold a driving license from a non-EU nation, you may drive in Sweden for a restricted time (up to one year) before acquiring a Swedish license.
Know the regulations on renting cars in Sweden, which can also vary based upon your driving license's origin.

Expenses Associated with Obtaining a Swedish Driving License

The overall cost of acquiring a Swedish driving license can differ depending on numerous factors, including whether the applicant chooses to take driving lessons or enlist in traffic school. Below is a breakdown of the prospective expenses included:

Expense

Estimated Cost (SEK)

Learner's Permit

150-250

Theory Exam

325

Dry run

800

Traffic School (optional)

5,000-15,000

License Issuing Fee

250-800

Overall Estimated Cost

6,500-17,175 (Approx.)

Often Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I utilize my foreign driving license in Sweden?

Yes, you can use your foreign driving license in Sweden for approximately one year from your arrival. After that, you should get a Swedish driving license.

2. For how long does Swedish Drivers License take to get a Swedish driving license?

The timeline varies among people. Typically, it can take anywhere between a couple of months to over a year, depending upon individual preparation and scheduling of tests.

3. What takes place if I stop working the driving test?

You can retake both the theory and dry runs. There might be a waiting duration of a couple of weeks for retaking the dry run, however you can schedule the theory test once again relatively rapidly.

4. Can I take the theory test in English?

Yes, some driving schools and testing centers might offer the theory test in English and other languages. However, this differs by location.

Acquiring a Swedish driving license is a useful action for foreigners seeking to browse the picturesque roads of Sweden with ease. The process might seem daunting initially, but with correct preparation, knowledge of regulations, and assistance, the journey can be smooth and satisfying. Comprehending the rights and requirements as well as browsing the paperwork and screening procedures will equip you with the ability to check out stunning Sweden conveniently and safely.