FAQ
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Driving license
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Motorcycle license
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License exchange
<strong>Frequently</strong> asked questions
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How long is the first aid certificate valid for?
The first aid course certificate that you receive is valid for 6 years.
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Where can I take the eye test, and how long is it valid for?
You can take the eye test at any of the certified opticians (see list on the OCV website). The test remains valid for 2 years.
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When is the earliest I can take the theory test?
You can take your theory test at the earliest one month before your 17th birthday. If you pass the test, your pupil’s licence will be sent to you on your 17th birthday.
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Can you tell me more about the theory exam at the OCV? How long does it last?
The theory exam lasts 45 minutes. You will have to answer 50 questions, totalizing 150 points. In order to pass the exam, you need to score at least 135 points out of 150.
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Where can I find my Numéro de registre on my provisional student’s license?
The Numéro de registre is written on your student’s license. In the box under your date of birth for a Geneva license, and at the bottom right of your address for a Vaud license.
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How long is my provisional student’s license valid for?
Your provisional driving license is valid for 24 months. If you have not passed the practical exam during this time-lapse, your student’s license will expire, and you will need to ask for another one.
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Are driving lessons mandatory?
Non. They are not mandatory, although highly recommended so that you learn how to drive in the best and safest conditions possible.
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I got my driver’s license on an automatic gear car. Am I allowed to drive a manual car?
Yes. At the exam, there is no distinction between the two types of gear changing mechanisms. As a consequence, you may drive a manual car with your license.
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How long is the practical exam, and do I need my own vehicle for it?
The practical exam lasts 45 minutes et you need to come with your own vehicle. If you don’t have one, you can contact us in order to book an exam presentation with one of our instructors. NB : your vehicle must be equipped with a handbrake, accessible from the passenger’ seat.
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Can I take the practical test with my My Driving School instructor?
This is perfectly possible. All you have to do is inform your instructor in advance about your test date and make sure he or she is available. You can then book the practical test with your instructor and his or her vehicle.
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Can I take driving lessons with my own vehicle?
No, the driving lessons are given with our own vehicles, dedicated to the learning and practice of driving in the safest conditions.
<strong>Frequently</strong> asked questions
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How long is the first aid certificate valid for?
The first aid course certificate that you receive is valid for 6 years.
-
Where can I take the eye test, and how long is it valid for?
You can take the eye test at any of the certified opticians (see list on the OCV website). The test remains valid for 2 years.
-
When is the earliest I can take the theory test?
You can take your theory test at the earliest one month before your 17th birthday. If you pass the test, your pupil’s licence will be sent to you on your 17th birthday.
-
Can you tell me more about the theory exam at the OCV? How long does it last?
The theory exam lasts 45 minutes. You will have to answer 50 questions, totalizing 150 points. In order to pass the exam, you need to score at least 135 points out of 150.
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Where can I find my Numéro de registre on my provisional student’s license?
The Numéro de registre is written on your student’s license. In the box under your date of birth for a Geneva license, and at the bottom right of your address for a Vaud license.
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I already have the driver’s license, what do I need to do in order to get my motorcycle license?
You can ask for your student’s provisional license straight away, and start practicing driving a motorcycle with private lessons if you are a beginner. After that, you will need to take one of the two mandatory courses : the 4h course if you have the A1 license, or the 12h course if you don’t.
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Is the 125sq cm motorcycle certificate valid in Switzerland?
Non, it is not valid in Switzerland.
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What is the mandatory equipment to drive a motorcycle?
It is mandatory to wear a helmet while driving a motorcycle. For an optimal protection, we advise you that you wear clothes that cover your entire body, closed shoes, and a pair of gloves.
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Do I need to have my own vehicle for the mandatory motorcycle courses?
Yes, you need to come with your own motorcycle for the course. The vehicle must be in a good state of maintenance, registered and approved for driving, and the gas tank should be full.
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Which documents to I need to bring on the day of the course?
You need to take with you the green card of the vehicle (its permit to circulate) along with your student’s license.
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Is it possible to rent a motorcycle for the private lessons or for the mandatory course?
It is possible to rent a motorcycle for private lessons and the mandatory courses. You can contact the rental manager at 079 173 65 38 for more information.
<strong>Frequently</strong> asked questions
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How much time do I have before I need to exchange my driving license?
You have one year to change your foreign driving license from the day of your arrival in Switzerland.
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If I have a foreign driving license, and I used to live in Switzerland before I got it, can I exchange it?
No, you need to arrive in Switzerland with the foreign driving license.
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If I do the license exchange driving test with an automatic gear car, will I still be allowed to drive a manual?
Yes, both automatic and manual gears will be written on your driving license, and you will be able to drive both types.
