Find a VKU course near you
Find a VKU traffic awareness course in your city. Compare VKU courses in Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, Basel, Thun and other cities across Switzerland.
VKU courses by city
What is the VKU?
What do you learn in the traffic awareness course?
The VKU (traffic awareness course) isn't a repeat of the theory test. It prepares you for real traffic conditions: spotting hazards, observing other road users, assessing road and traffic conditions, and building safe driving habits. Under federal rules it's mandatory — not an optional extra.
Who needs the VKU
Learner drivers and motorcyclists getting their first Swiss licence. A valid learner's permit is required.
Duration
8 lessons, usually split across four half-day sessions of 2 hours each.
Content
Hazard perception, traffic observation and safe driving behaviour — hands-on practice rather than rote learning.
Frequently asked questions about the VKU
How long does the VKU course take?
How long does the VKU course take?
The VKU takes 8 lessons in total and is usually split across four half-day sessions of 2 hours each. This structure is standard at most driving schools in Switzerland.
Who has to attend the VKU?
Every learner driver or motorcyclist getting a Swiss licence for the first time has to attend the VKU. You need a valid learner's permit — without one, you can't register for a course.
When can I take the VKU?
As soon as you have your learner's permit, you can register for a VKU course. Many learners take it alongside their first practical driving lessons, since the VKU doesn't require any driving experience.
What happens after the VKU?
Once you complete the VKU, you get a confirmation you'll need to register for the practical driving test. You keep gaining practical driving experience until you're ready for the exam.
Your path to a licence
Where the VKU fits in
Here's the full path to a Swiss driving licence — and where the VKU course fits in.
- Step 1
Theory test
Pass the mandatory theory test to get your learner's permit.
- Step 2
Learner's permit
Once you pass the theory test, you receive your learner's permit.
- Step 3
VKU course
You are here8 lessons of traffic awareness training, usually across four half-days of 2 hours, covering hazard perception and safe driving behaviour.
- Step 4
Practical driving lessons
Gain real road experience, accompanied by a driving instructor.
- Step 5
Practical driving test
Pass the practical exam and show you can drive safely and responsibly.
- Step 6
Driving licence
You're allowed to drive a car or motorcycle on your own in Switzerland.