The theoretical examination

All you need to know!

Practice with computer simulations!

In the driving school, on different programs with the possibility of asking questions to your instructor.

Since when can I pass my theoretical exam?

The candidate may take the basic theoretical examination one month before reaching the minimum age required, provided that an application has been submitted to the motor vehicle service.

Permit A1: 16 years for vehicles up to 50 cm ^{3 or up to 4 kW or 18 years for other vehicles.}

Permits A, B, B1, BE of 18 years.

In which language can I take the theoretical exam?

In the canton of Vaud and Valais one can take the exam in French, German and Italian. Some other cantons, however, offer examinations in English.

On the other hand, you can learn the theory and make blank examinations in several other languages ​​on programs of theory, CD, applications and USB keys.

Where to pass my theoretical exam?

Various places to pass your theoretical examinations in the canton of Vaud:

In Aigle, Nyon, Yverdon-les-Bains and Lausanne. (For Lausanne you can go without appointments on Wednesday afternoons, from 12:30 to 15:30.)

Places to pass your exams in the canton of Valais:

St-Maurice & Sion for example.

You should normally take your examinations in the canton of residence, however, the canton of residence may authorize a candidate to undergo the basic theoretical examination, the complementary theoretical examination and the practical examination in another canton.

Registration for the theoretical examination?

Registration either by returning the reply form you received or by using the link below online using your PIN number and PID listed on the received form. Link here.

For the most courageous, you still have the option of calling or going to the automotive service counter.

Purpose of the theoretical examination?

The examination should allow you to check your knowledge of the traffic rules. (LCR art.14, para.3)

How did the exam work?

Do a test simulation as if you were there! Click on the following link

Please present yourself on time to: appointment (optional), original identification (passport, identity card or passport). If you do not have the ID due to renewal, consider asking for a certificate before the day of the exam.

In the case of forgetfulness or invalidity of the identity document, you will not be able to take the theoretical exam and the latter will be charged to you.

Examination will be by computer.

It is however possible in case of reading problems (compulsory attestation) to be able to pass it by oral examination with an expert. The exam lasts 1h30. Information on the following link.

Duration and number of questions for the different categories?

Theory cyclomoteurs M: 30 minutes for 30 questions, 9 faults allowed.

Theory F / G simplified theoretical: 45 minutes for 40 questions without questions on highways, 12 mistakes allowed.

Basic theory A1, A, B, B1: 45 minutes for 50 questions, 15 allowed errors.

Supplementary theory C1 / D1, TPP: 30 minutes for 30 questions, 3 allowed errors.

Complementary theory C: 60 minutes for 40 questions, 4 allowed errors.

Complementary theory D: 60 minutes for 40 questions, 4 allowed errors.

Theory Boats: 50 minutes to 60 questions with a minimum of 165 points out of 180

We need to answer at least 90 percent of the questions.

Successful review?

If you have passed the theory, the student's license will be available to you at the counters (for the centers of Aigle, Nyon or Yverdon-les-Bains) as soon as the examination session is over. Student licenses that will not be withdrawn during the day will be systematically sent by post to A-Mail.

Validity of student permits?

24 months validity for?

Category B (car) as for category B1, C, C1-D1, D for that matter.

For car permits (Categories B): registration for the practical examination can only be carried out after taking the mandatory awareness course provided by a driving instructor. Unless you have already obtained a permit in one of the following sub-categories or categories (A1, A).

Validity of 4 months for?

Category A1, and A (scooter / motorcycle) it is valid for 4 months, during which it is necessary to have done motorcycle courses (8 or 12 hours depending on the cases) and then it will be extended by one year.

The student pupil's permit of this category is valid four months after the passing of the theoretical examinations. To extend the validity period by 12 months, you must follow the basic practical instruction (IPB of 8 to 12 hours of courses depending on the case) in the first 4 months and present the original document at the end of the course Automobiles and navigation. Your student permit will be extended by 12 months.

Prior to enrolling in practical exams, you must also take the Awareness Course unless you have already obtained a permit in one of the following sub-categories or categories (A1, A, B1, B).

Please note that the provisional permit of 4 months duration can not be extended if you have not done the motorcycle course. You have the right to reapply for a second time, but beyond that you will have to wait one year before the car service gives you another student's license. So take into account that the car service does not do a motorcycle review from December to February (check specific dates) and that there are fewer motorcycle classes organized during the cold months and that they can be canceled for Cause of bad weather.)

Failed to review?

In case of failure you can ask the next day for a new appointment. The failed exam will be charged.

No presentation to the exam?

A request for postponement or cancellation must reach the car service in writing (e-mail or fax accepted) at least 3 working days before the examination. Otherwise, you will receive an invoice. From the second cancellation, half of the fee is charged.

If the examination can not take place for a reason that is your responsibility, it will also be invoiced. Either:

Forgotten ID or late arrival

Period of validity of the theoretical examination?

The theoretical examination has a validity of 2 years. And of course it remains valid if you get and keep unlimited driving license.