If you wish to obtain a driving licence for category A1/A or B and do not already hold one of these, this course is intended for you. It forms part of the second, “practical” phase of the driver’s licence process.

To attend the course, you must first obtain your learner’s permit, which can be requested from the road traffic office in your canton of residence once you’ve passed the theory exam. You will need to bring this learner’s permit with you to every session.

Note: If you already hold a driving licence (PCC – credit-card format) for category A or B, you are not required to take this course again.

A) Traffic theory – Learning road safety

Objectives: The aim of road safety training is to introduce learner drivers to causal relationships in road traffic. It should enable them to:

• Identify typical and frequently recurring situations relevant to traffic safety ;
• Develop increased awareness of potential hazards ;
• Form behavioural patterns for similar situations ;
• Sharpen their ability to perceive and interpret signs (clues).

Learner drivers must learn to:

• Recognize, manage, and avoid dangers (knowledge of the stages in the development of a critical situation / analytical fork) ;
• Avoid critical situations altogether.

B) Behaviour in the event of an accident

Objective: To know and apply the appropriate behaviour, measures and legal requirements.

C) Consumption of alcohol, medication or drugs: dangers and consequences when driving

Objective: To be able to explain the risks, effects and possible consequences of consuming alcohol, medication or drugs (including links between reasons for driving and reasons for consumption, and a reminder of legal regulations and penalties), and to know appropriate behaviour (e.g. choosing between driving or consuming).

D) Accident analysis

Objective: To become aware that every road accident has consequences not only for the person responsible (in terms of criminal, administrative and civil law), but also physical, psychological, financial and social repercussions for the victim and their loved ones.

The traffic awareness course is delivered by certified instructors holding a teaching permit or a federal driving instructor diploma.

The teaching methodology is based on exchange, interaction and active participation from all learners, to ensure engaging and productive sessions.

Each module concludes with an informal knowledge check.

The components of the traffic theory course are assessed during the practical driving test. They are not subject to a separate exam, but their application is a key factor for success in the practical test.

The course is recognized throughout Switzerland and is a prerequisite for booking the practical exam (cat. A1/A and/or B) with the vehicle licensing authorities.

Its validity is unlimited.