Driving licence in Fribourg: step-by-step guide from enrolment to the test (2026 edition)

You live in the canton of Fribourg and want a category B driving licence? The process involves administrative steps and canton-specific training. This guide lists the mandatory stages from application to the practical test, in line with the Office for Traffic and Navigation (OCN) requirements for 2026.

Overview of the steps

Step 1: Registration and learner permit

The process starts with the cantonal Office for Traffic and Navigation (OCN) in Fribourg. Before any lesson, you must obtain a learner driver permit.

Where to file: OCN Fribourg, Route de Tavel 10, 1700 Fribourg.

Documents required:

• Valid ID (identity card or passport).
• A recent passport-style photo.
• Medical certificate only if conditions affecting driving are present (e.g. vision disorders, epilepsy).
• Payment of the file fee (around CHF 30–40 depending on category).

Validity and conditions: the learner permit is valid for 24 months and can be renewed once. The minimum age to begin category B training is 17. It only authorises driving with an approved instructor or, under accompanied-driving rules, with a companion who meets the legal requirements.

Step 2: First-aid course

The first-aid course is compulsory and lasts 10 hours, delivered by Confederation-approved providers. It must be completed before you can register for the theory test.

Content: vital actions — recovery position, CPR, bleeding control and alerting emergency services.

Cost and certificate: prices are usually between CHF 120 and 150 depending on the provider (e.g. Fribourg Red Cross). You receive a certificate that must be included in your theory-test registration; without it, no registration is accepted.

Step 3: Road awareness (CTC)

This seminar is separate from practical lessons; it raises awareness of road risks. It is compulsory and must be completed before the practical test.

Format: four sessions of 2 hours (8 hours in total). Topics include driving psychology, risk management, hazard perception, and the effects of alcohol, fatigue or drugs.

Organisation: not delivered by driving schools but by independent approved institutes. Typical cost CHF 200–250. It can be taken before or during practical training.

Step 4: Theory test

The theory test is organised by OCN Fribourg. It is computer-based and covers the Highway Code, signs, safe distances and priorities.

• Format: computerised test.
• Duration: 45 minutes.
• Structure: 50 questions, 150 points in total.
• Pass threshold: no more than 15 errors.
• Fee: around CHF 35–40.
• Languages: French, German, Italian and English (translation aids are not allowed).

Serious preparation with approved apps or theory courses is recommended. If you fail, you must wait one month before retaking. First-attempt pass rates in Switzerland are typically around 70%.

Step 5: Practical training

Practical training is given by driving instructors holding OCN authorisation. There is no legal minimum number of hours before taking the test.

Typical hours: most candidates need 20–30 hours to reach the required level, depending on starting level, practice frequency and teaching quality.

Approved instructors teach safe driving, traffic management and the practical test criteria. See our driving courses in Fribourg.

Step 6: Accompanied driving (optional)

Accompanied driving lets you practise with a designated companion (e.g. parent) from age 17 once you hold a learner permit.

Companion requirements:

• Age: at least 23.
• Experience: category B licence held for at least 3 years.
• Licence status: full licence (probationary period completed) and not withdrawn.
• Safety: must be able to reach the parking brake easily to intervene in an emergency.

Fitness and alcohol: learner and companion must be fit to drive. Strict zero-alcohol rules apply (a small technical tolerance avoids false positives from food).

Learning rules:

• Minimum period: if you are under 20, you must drive on a learner permit for at least 12 months before the practical test.
• Sign: the vehicle must display a white "L" on a blue background at the rear.

This option is encouraged to build real-world experience; it does not replace professional lessons for manoeuvres and test preparation.

Step 7: Practical test

The practical test is organised by OCN Fribourg. Registration is usually handled by the driving school or directly with the office.

• Duration: about 50–60 minutes.
• Route: Fribourg and surrounding areas, in real traffic.
• Fee: about CHF 300–360.
• Assessment: safety, smooth driving, rules, anticipation and interaction with other road users — to confirm autonomy and responsibility.

If you fail: a waiting period applies before you can retake. There is no cap on attempts, but you must register again and pay the fee each time.

For a budget overview, see our article on driving licence costs in Switzerland.

For official information, visit the OCN Fribourg website or contact them directly.

OCN Fribourg
Route de Tavel 10, 1700 Fribourg
Website: ocn.fr.ch
Opening hours: see the official website.

AZUL driving school supports learners through practical training. Contact · Book on agenda.ch · azu-l.ch