Hi,

I have a non EU license and already over 3 years in Switzerland.
I drove last nearly 10 years back when I applied for my original non EU license, which I passed.
Is it really bold to apply for the Swiss license by Kontrolfahrt with my driving skills?
I do no have much German language knowhow also.

If anyone else had similar experience I will appreciate if he/she can share the same with me.

The protocols I am following now:-

1. Fill the form, do eye test and submit the same at the Strassenverkehrsamt Office.
2. Ask for a date as late as possible (My knowledge is this can not be beyond 2 months, am I right??)
3. First 2 weeks will hire mobility and drive with a friend to be comfortable inside the car. (Will appreciate if any one can share a specific route where it will be safe for a driver like me to test my driving skills)
4. Then will take a driving lesson for the next 5-6 weeks for 10 courses.
5. Apply for the test!!

Am I missing something?
Any suggestions and pearls of wisdom?

From what you write I don't think your ideas are really compatible with your experience, and I am not sure if you have not gone past some date limits.

The easiest way out of your predicament is to take a driving lesson. The instructors are very professional here and will be able to answer all your questions.

Yes, most notably that you cannot apply for merely for a Kontrollfahrt conversion after more than one year in Switzerland, you have to do it all ab initio, theory exam and the works.

I am not sure if this is true because I have friends who have appeared for the Kontrolfahrt after staying more than 2 years in Switzerland...


What are the standard rates per class with a Driving instructor??

Yes it is possible...... I have a friend who has converted his after 5 years.
It is just that you cant drive after 1 year, mine was also after one year (1.5 years).

Well, I've the same opinion as Shorrick. So all I can say is go and ask and let us know.

Hi Rocky,

I just passed my kontolfahrt a week ago. So I don't repeat myself, you can read up more about my experience on the link below:
[Drivers licence] Conversion and questions

I was extremely nervous about it also but it all went well. After doing your eye test, filling in the form and sending it out, and receiving an invite for the test from the authorities, I would suggest that you take a try out lesson with an instructor. Only then can the instructor tell you approximately how many lessons it'll take you to drive properly in CH.

My wife took over 23 lessons where as I took only 5. However, I've been driving for many years and am an avid motorsports fan and ex-competitor. There are instructors out there who speak English and I can give you the details for the one I used. She's fair, pleasant, a very good instructor and speaks English.

Also for the kontrolfahrt, the examiners do speak a little bit of English. However, I'd learn the simple directions such as left, right, straight on, junction, highway etc... in German. Also please note, kontolfahrts can be done in a number of locations. If you're nervous about trams, too many pedestrians and traffic, I'd suggest you don't do it in Zürich city centre. Do it in Hinwil ,where I did.

Send in the paperwork, then get an instructor. I'm sure you'll do fine.
Wish u the best.

You could convert your old licence with a Controlfahrt if your old licence has been issued before your arrival date in Switzerland.. even if it is more than 10 years since your arrival day in Switzerland you could still convert it.

However you can not convert it if you got your foreign driving licence once you are resident of Switzerland. Then you will have to take the usual route of theory exam.. etc

Cheers

I submitted mine and it was all fine..no hiccups!!!
Waiting for the letter..
Already got the reference of a good english speaking instructor and should start with 10 lessons for 780 CHF!!!

Do you think the price is fair?
And if I fail in my examination will I get another chance?

Akki

I know this is a very old thread but does anyone know if Rocky passt the kontrollfahrt?
I am in a similar situation but before i apply for the date i am in the process of taking driving lessons to prepare.

I would love to find out anyone with similar experiences.

Kudos to those who passed!

Not sure how you managed it - i have no control over my farts at all. Is it some sort of Swiss certificate to prove you are safe to be deployed in office environments or something?