How to get a Category B driving licence in Sweden – step by step

Step 1

Apply for a learner's permit and arrange an eyesight certificate

Start by applying to the Swedish Transport Agency for a Group 1 learner's permit. A Category B application includes a health declaration and a basic eyesight certificate. The eyesight certificate must be no more than two months old when you apply.

You need a valid permit to practise driving and book the driving-licence tests. Applying is free. An approved permit is valid for five years and cannot be extended. Once all documents have arrived, the agency states a normal processing time of up to four weeks, although cases requiring investigation can take longer.

• Apply for Group 1.
• Submit the health declaration and eyesight certificate.
• Check the decision before starting driving practice.

Step 2

Choose a driving school, private practice or both

You can train with a driving school, privately, or combine both. For private practice, the supervisor must be approved specifically for you and you must have a valid learner's permit. You may start practising in a passenger car without a trailer at age 16; you must be 18 to receive a Category B licence.

Since 1 August 2026, the introductory course is no longer required for private Category B practice. The supervisor must still apply to the Swedish Transport Agency and receive approval before you drive together.

• Choose how to combine professional and private training.
• Wait for supervisor approval before private practice.
• Practise systematically and record what needs improvement.

Step 3

Study theory alongside practical driving

Connect the theory to situations you meet in the car. Practise risk awareness, traffic rules, road position, speed adaptation, vehicle control and independent driving.

Use the KörkortKompass theory book to understand each area, the theory quiz for revision and the licence planner to choose your next practical skill. The questions are independently written practice material, not questions from Trafikverket's official test.

Step 4

Complete both parts of risk training

You must complete both parts of the passenger-car risk training before the theory and driving tests. The first part examines how factors such as alcohol, drugs, fatigue and risky behaviour affect driving.

The second part includes practical work on speed, safety and the effects of different road and weather conditions. The training remains valid until you obtain the licence, but for no more than five years. Book with an approved provider and check that the registration is still valid when you take the tests.

Step 5

Book the tests when your skills are consistent

Use Trafikverket's booking service once your learner's permit is ready and you are approaching a consistent standard in both theory and driving. Trafikverket recommends planning the tests well in advance.

Check the booking confirmation, valid identification, photography arrangements and current requirements before your visit. Prices, availability and practical rules can change, so rely on Trafikverket's current booking information.

Step 6

Take the theory test and driving test

The theory test assesses how you apply knowledge about road safety, rules, vehicles, the environment and personal driving conditions. A test passed before 19 August 2026 remains valid for four months. A test passed on or after 19 August 2026 remains valid for one year. You must pass the driving test within the period that applies to your theory test.

The driving test begins with a safety check and includes driving in different traffic environments. The examiner assesses whether you apply your knowledge safely. Passing in an automatic car normally adds condition 78, limiting the licence to automatic vehicles.

• Read the instructions in your booking.
• Bring valid identification and arrive in good time.
• Prioritise safe decisions instead of trying to drive perfectly.