The B driving licence theory test — how it works

Source: Trafikverket · 2026

The theory test — officially called the knowledge test — is the written test you must pass before you can take the driving test for a B driving licence. Here’s exactly how it works.

How the test is structured

The test consists of 70 questions, of which 65 count towards your result and 5 are trial questions that Trafikverket evaluates for future tests — you will not know which ones are trial questions. To pass, you need at least 52 correct answers out of the 65 scored questions, and you have 50 minutes. The test costs approximately 420–520 SEK and is available in 15 official languages. You receive your result immediately after completing the test.

What the test covers

The questions cover the entire B driving licence syllabus: traffic rules and right-of-way rules, road signs and road markings, vehicle knowledge and safety, the environment and fuel-efficient driving, risk assessment and traffic psychology, night driving and slippery conditions, as well as rules for motorways, rural roads and built-up areas. The questions test both factual knowledge and your ability to assess real-life traffic situations.

How to book the test

You book your knowledge test directly with Trafikverket, either at trafikverket.se or by phone. You need a valid driving licence permit before you can book. The test is held at one of Trafikverket’s driver testing centres.

If you fail the test

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the knowledge test, but you must wait at least 14 days between attempts, and each attempt incurs a new fee.

After passing the theory test

Once you have passed the theory test, you can book the driving test. You must take both the knowledge test and the driving test within one year of each other — otherwise, you will have to retake the knowledge test.

How to prepare effectively

Most people who pass the test on their first attempt have practised systematically with questions in the same format as the real test, rather than simply reading through the chapters once. Plan on spending a total of 40–80 hours studying the theory. If Swedish is not your strongest language, it can make a significant difference to first understand the entire theory in your native language and then learn the Swedish technical terms separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the knowledge test and the theory test the same thing?

"Theory test" is the everyday term, while "knowledge test" is Trafikverket’s official name — they are the same test.

Do the trial questions count towards my result?

No. Of the 70 questions, 5 are trial questions that do not count — but you do not know which ones they are, so you should answer every question with equal care.

Can I retake the test on the same day if I fail?

No, you must wait at least 14 days before you can book another attempt.