VKU Switzerland: traffic knowledge course — duty, duration, costs & theory

Short answer — what is the VKU in Switzerland?

The VKU (Verkehrskundeunterricht) is Switzerland’s traffic knowledge course (“Kurs über Verkehrskunde”). It is part of basic training when you first obtain categories A or B or subcategories A1 or B1. You learn attitudes, risks and foresight in a group — as in-person tuition, not a pure online substitute.

• Who: typically when you first acquire one of those categories and do not yet hold A/B/A1/B1.
• Until 31 Dec 2026 (old regime): many learners take the basic theory test first, then the VKU before the practical test — common practice.
• From 1 Jan 2027: anyone registering for the basic theory for A/B/A1/B1 without already holding one of those licences must prove the VKU is completed first (VZV Art. 13 para. 1^ter).
• Duration & validity: usually eight hours in four blocks; the certificate after full attendance is unlimited in time (for courses completed from 1 Jan 2021).

Exam changes and why VKU topics become test-relevant are covered in Theory test 2027.

What is the traffic knowledge course?

In the ordinance it is the “Kurs über Verkehrskunde” (VZV Art. 18). Driving schools and learners usually say “VKU”. ASTRA’s explanations to the new office ordinance (VKUV) stress classroom presence: joint work and exchange. E-learning remains useful for the theory exam — it does not replace the VKU.

Topics include hazard awareness, responsibility, distraction, alcohol and impairment, consideration and defensive driving. From 2027, driver assistance and automation systems (FAS) are strengthened — and related material feeds into the basic theory test (Annex 11 VZV). After the practical test comes the probation period — see Swiss probationary licence.

Who must take the VKU?

It mainly concerns the first acquisition of categories A, B or subcategories A1, B1. From 2027, VZV Art. 13 para. 1^ter requires proof of the VKU when you register for the basic theory if you do not already hold one of those licences.

If you already hold an unlimited licence in one of those categories (e.g. cat. B) and later add a motorcycle, you are often exempt from basic theory and the VKU — confirm with your cantonal traffic office. See also A1 theory test and motorcycle theory.

Obligation and timing: 2026 vs 2027

Until end-2026: theory first, then VKU before the practical test, is still the usual path. A 2026 theory attempt stays on the known 50-question format — see How many questions does the theory test have?.

From 1 January 2027: proof of the completed VKU is required when registering for basic theory for A/B/A1/B1 without an existing such licence (VZV Art. 13 para. 1^ter, AS 2026 26). The course may start at the earliest six months before the minimum age (VZV Art. 18 para. 2 as amended).

Transition (Art. 151q VZV): if you passed theory under the old regime but have not yet done the VKU, you must prove the course at the latest when registering for the practical test (unless exempt). Cantons differ on admissions already issued.

Examples (not binding for every canton):

• Bern (SVSA, July 2026): admission issued by 31 Dec 2026 → you may still take theory within the two-year validity without a prior VKU. Admission from 1 Jan 2027 → VKU first. Questions are rewritten from 2027 anyway.
• Aargau (October 2026): application by 31 Dec 2026 with theory in 2027 → prior VKU not mandatory, but extra VKU questions still appear. Application in 2027 → VKU before theory.

Always ask your own traffic office. More on the exam: Theory test 2027.

Duration, content and validity

According to ASTRA’s VKUV explanations, the course lasts eight hours in four blocks of two hours, including a ten-minute break per block. Under the new regime (from 2027), the four blocks are to be spread over four days. Block 1 comes first; blocks 2–4 are more flexible afterwards. Maximum twelve participants.

Validity: since 1 January 2021, completed training and passed tests are generally unlimited. The certificate for a fully completed VKU is unlimited (VKUV Art. 9 para. 2 in the explanations). Book with a recognised provider; some cantons mention a FABER PIN from 2027. Overall pathway: Swiss learner permit.

What does the VKU cost?

Fees are set by the course provider and vary by region. There is no single federal CHF price we can quote — compare local driving schools and check your traffic office.

Typical planning

1. First-aid course and eye test
2. Learner-permit application at the cantonal office
3. 2026: often theory → then VKU → practice  |  2027: VKU first → then theory → practice
4. Learner permit after passing theory (and reaching minimum age)
5. Practice drives and practical test

See also learner permit, car / motorcycle / moped theory overview and a theory learning plan.

Why it matters for theory practice

From 2027, VKU topics are part of the basic theory. Practise the classic rules under Swiss traffic rules, and add FAS and hazard awareness. At Theorie Swiss you train with over 1'200 questions — start the free demo, unlock 60 days for CHF 19.95, or practise free online. Ready to buy? Order.

Note: Summary of federal rules and selected cantonal notices (as of October 2026). Binding are the legal texts and your traffic office. Not legal advice.

FAQ

What is the Swiss VKU?
The traffic knowledge course — in-person basic training, typically for the first A/B/A1/B1 licence.

Must the VKU be done before the theory test?
From 1 January 2027 yes (when registering for basic theory for A/B/A1/B1 without already holding one). Until end-2026, theory-then-VKU remains common practice; transition rules differ by canton.

How long does it last and how long is it valid?
Usually eight hours in four two-hour blocks (incl. a short break). The certificate after full attendance is unlimited (completions from 1 Jan 2021). From 2027, expect four days — ask your provider.

What does it cost?
Provider-set; no single national CHF amount. Compare schools and ask your SVA.

Do I need the VKU if I already have cat. B and want a motorcycle?
Often no — confirm with your cantonal office.

When is the earliest I may attend?
Six months before the minimum age (VZV Art. 18 para. 2 as amended). Extra cantonal prerequisites may apply.

Sources

• VZV amendment AS 2026 26 (in force 1 Jan 2027): Art. 13 para. 1^ter, Art. 18 para. 2, Art. 151q, Annex 11
• ASTRA changes of 19 Dec 2025; explanations VZV & VKUV (8 h / 4×2 h, presence, unlimited certificate)
• SVSA Canton of Bern, 3 July 2026 news on admission / VKU from 2027
• Canton of Aargau traffic office: VKU before theory for 2027 applications; transition for applications by 31 Dec 2026

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