Find a first aid course (Nothelferkurs) in your city. Compare dates, prices, language and available spots for the first aid course at over 80 locations in Switzerland.
First aid courses by canton
Nothelferkurs Waadt
25 locations
Nothelferkurs Zürich
15 locations
Nothelferkurs St. Gallen
9 locations
Nothelferkurs Aargau
8 locations
Nothelferkurs Freiburg
8 locations
Nothelferkurs Wallis
7 locations
Nothelferkurs Genf
7 locations
Nothelferkurs Basel-Landschaft
5 locations
Nothelferkurs Bern
5 locations
Nothelferkurs Luzern
5 locations
What is the first aid course?
The first aid course (Nothelferkurs) teaches life-saving immediate measures: behaviour at traffic accidents, securing the danger zone, the recovery position, the rescue grip and Basic Life Support (resuscitation & AED). Under ASTRA rules it's a prerequisite for registering for the theory driving test.
What it's needed for
In Switzerland, a valid first aid certificate is legally required to register for the theory driving test — for a car, motorcycle, moped or truck licence. No testing centre will accept you for the theory test without it.
Who needs the course
Anyone applying for a learner's permit for a car (category B), motorcycle (A/A1), moped (A35km/h) or another licence needs a valid first aid certificate beforehand. Exemptions only apply with recognised prior training, e.g. the army first aid course.
When to take it
Take it early, before you plan to register for the theory test — e.g. around age 13–14 for a moped licence, or 16–17 for a car or motorcycle licence. The certificate then stays valid for 6 years.
Duration
10 hours, usually spread over two course days (e.g. Friday evening and Saturday).
Validity
The first aid certificate is issued electronically and is valid for 6 years from the last course day.
Course content
Through varied and interactive exercises, you'll practise the right reflexes after a traffic accident or a medical emergency using realistic simulations. The lessons cover a lot of practical knowledge in a simple way and are based on the latest first aid recommendations.
The course covers, among other things
What comes next?
Take the eyesight test
An ophthalmologist or optician confirms that you meet the visual requirements to drive. You can find an ophthalmologist via the SOG list, or simply go to any optician in Switzerland.
List of ophthalmologists (SOG)Practice for the theory test
Once you have your first aid certificate and eyesight test, it's time to prepare for the theory exam. We can help you with that.
Practice in the app →FAQ
The first aid course takes 10 hours in total and is spread over at least two course days, usually one evening and a full day on the weekend.
Anyone registering for the theory driving test for a car or motorcycle needs a valid first aid certificate — unless they're exempt through a recognised training (e.g. the army first aid course from 2020 onward).
Prices vary by location but are usually between CHF 120 and CHF 140. The exact price is shown for each course date.
The certificate is delivered electronically by email and is valid for six years from the last course day.
Most providers run courses in German, French and Italian. The available language is shown for each course date.
Yes, many locations offer the course on a Friday evening and Saturday, or over a full weekend, making it easy to fit around school or work.
Yes, the first aid certificate is required to register for the theory driving test, whether you're getting a car or motorcycle licence.
Usually an official ID and comfortable clothing for the practical exercises are enough. Check the confirmation from your course provider for exact details.
First aid courses in Switzerland
Your path
Getting a driving licence in Switzerland follows a fixed order of steps. Here's where the first aid course fits in — and what comes next.
First aid course
Eyesight test
Theory test
Learner's permit
Traffic awareness course
Practice driving
Practical exam
Licence on probation
First aid course
· Nothelferkurs10-hour course covering life-saving measures. Required before you can register for the theory test.
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