You obtain the learner's permit for category B (car) after passing the theory exam and holding a valid first aid certificate and eye test. Since the 2021 reform, the cat. B learner's permit can be obtained from the age of 17. It allows you to practise on public roads – but only accompanied by a person who is at least 23 years old and has held the unrestricted licence of the relevant category for at least three years.
The minimum learning period is important: anyone who obtains the cat. B learner's permit before their 20th birthday must hold it for at least 12 months before being allowed to take the practical test. This rule is intended to ensure young beginners gather enough practice. Those who obtain the permit only from age 20 have no such minimum learning period.
The cat. B learner's permit is valid for 24 months (two years). The practical test should be taken within this time. If it expires without the test being passed, an extension or a new application with a repeated theory exam may be required. The blue "L" plate must be clearly displayed on the vehicle.
For motorcycles (cat. A1/A) separate rules apply: here, after the compulsory basic training, you may in part practise alone, but with restrictions (e.g. no passengers, no motorway initially). Here too the learner's permit is time-limited.
As a price guide, issuing the learner's permit costs roughly CHF 50 to 70 (without guarantee, varies by canton), plus the costs for first aid, theory learning materials and eye test. Almost always sensible: start professional lessons early and combine that time with private practice drives.