The Verkehrskundeunterricht (VKU, road-awareness course) is part of driver training in Switzerland and is required by law. It gives you, in theory form, all the skills and specialist knowledge you need as a future driver. The VKU has to be completed before you can be admitted to the practical driving test.
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What is the VKU?
The Verkehrskundeunterricht is a purely theoretical course in which you learn to spot dangerous situations sooner, to deal with them and, above all, to avoid them. As a future driver you are meant to acquire the ability to react correctly in any situation.
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Is the VKU compulsory?
Yes, the Verkehrskundeunterricht is compulsory for everyone, unless you already hold a licence in category A, A1 or B1. In that case you do not have to take the VKU again, even if you attended the course more than 2 years ago.
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How much does the VKU cost?
Depending on the provider, the VKU costs between 180 and 280 francs. Courses at the weekend tend to be more expensive than on working days.
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How long does the VKU last?
The Verkehrskundeunterricht lasts 8 hours, always comprises 8 lessons and is offered everywhere in 4 units of two lessons each. Completing the course in a single day is therefore not possible. That is how the law prescribes it.
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When should I take the VKU?
As soon as you have your Lernfahrausweis (learner’s permit), it is up to you when you take the VKU. Not before, because you must be in possession of a Lernfahrausweis. You are well advised to take the course after your first driving lessons. If you take it too early, you may not always be able to follow what the course leader is talking about.
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How long is the VKU confirmation valid?
The VKU course confirmation is valid indefinitely. Unlike the Nothelferausweis (first-aid certificate), for example, which is valid for 6 years, you need not worry that in the worst case you would have to
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Who is exempt from the VKU?
Only holders of a licence in category A, A1 or B1. In that case you do not take the VKU again, even if you attended the course more than 2 years ago.
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Is there a test at the end of the VKU?
No, the VKU is a course without a test, but with strict compulsory attendance throughout. Anyone excluded from the lessons on disciplinary grounds has not completed the course and has to repeat it.
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What do I learn in the VKU?
The VKU is mainly about acquiring the theoretical knowledge and foundations you need to move safely on the roads as a future road user. The focus is on a settled sense of traffic and on an awareness of dangerous situations. The aim is to encourage a defensive and considerate style of driving.
The four double lessons of the VKU are divided by topic as follows:
Click on the list below to see what you learn in the VKU:
- Verkehrssehen (seeing in traffic)
- Verkehrsumwelt (the traffic environment)
- Verkehrsdynamik (vehicle dynamics)
- Verkehrstaktik (traffic tactics)
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A look inside a VKU lesson
The following video (from 4’34) gives you a lively look inside a lesson.
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How many people take part in a VKU?
A maximum of twelve participants is allowed per Verkehrskundeunterricht course. A course usually goes ahead from six registrations onwards.
More information can be found in the article “The Swiss car driving licence“.