Updated April 22, 2026
Driving License in Sweden for Expats
Yes, for 1 year from registration (personnummer). After that, you must convert to a Sweden license. The official test is only in Swedish, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Sweden Driving License for Expats
- Test Authority
- Trafikverket — Swedish Transport Administration
- Official Test Language
- Swedish
- Grace Period
- 1 year from registration (personnummer)
- Processing Time
- 2-4 weeks (exchange) or 3-6 months (full test)
- Theory Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Practical Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Medical Exam
- Not required
- Total Cost
- SEK 700-1,500 (~€63-135) exchange or SEK 15,000-25,000 (~€1,350-2,250) full test
Eligibility by Nationality
EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely in Sweden. No exchange required.
US/UK Citizens
No exchange agreement. Full test required.
Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 1 year of registration. Limited exchange agreements.
Students
Can use foreign license during studies with valid IDP.
Required Documents
- ✓Personnummer
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Passport photos
- ✓Application to Transportstyrelsen
Costs Breakdown
- Conversion/Exam Fee
- SEK 400 (~€35)
- Medical Exam
- Not required for standard exchange
- Translation
- SEK 500-1,000 (~€45-90) if needed
- Total Estimated
- SEK 700-1,500 (~€63-135) exchange or SEK 15,000-25,000 (~€1,350-2,250) full test
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 6
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 6
EU/EEA countriesSwitzerlandJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanFaroe Islands
No Agreement (Full Test Required): USA, UK, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Tips for Expats in Sweden
- Test is ONLY in Swedish - practice in English with AutoviaTest
- Mandatory risk education (risk 1 + risk 2) required for full test
- Risk 2 includes skid training on a slippery track
- Personnummer required before applying - can take weeks to receive
- EU license holders do not need to exchange - valid indefinitely
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Swedish driving test in English?
No, the official theory test is only in Swedish. However, English practice materials are available. Practice with AutoviaTest in English to learn the rules before taking the test in Swedish.
What are risk 1 and risk 2?
Sweden requires two mandatory risk education courses. Risk 1 covers alcohol, drugs, and fatigue. Risk 2 is practical training on a slippery track and high-speed emergency braking.
Can I exchange my US or UK license in Sweden?
No, Sweden has no exchange agreement with the USA or UK. You must take the full Swedish driving test, including mandatory risk education courses.
How long can I drive in Sweden with my foreign license?
You can drive with your foreign license for 1 year after receiving your personnummer. After that, you must have a Swedish or EU license to drive.
What is a personnummer?
Personnummer is your Swedish personal identity number. You need it for almost everything in Sweden, including applying for a driving license. Apply at Skatteverket (Tax Agency) when you register.