From July 2025, it will no longer be enough to simply be able to drive – learner drivers will have to understand and correctly use modern driver assistance systems and AI technologies. The driving test will therefore become a “technology test” – with far-reaching consequences for candidates, driving schools and examiners.
Digitalisation in road traffic does not stop at the driving test. From 1 July 2025, driver assistance systems (DAS) and AI-controlled driving systems will become part of the theory and practical test for passenger cars and motorbikes. The basis for this is an amendment to the Traffic Licensing Ordinance (VZV), flanked by the new Ordinance on Automated Driving (in force since 1 March 2025). This is the legislator’s response to the increasing integration of artificially intelligent driving technologies into everyday motoring.
Specific changes to the test
In the theory test, learner drivers will have to be able to differentiate between classic ADAS and automated systems (level 2). Their safe use will be assessed in the practical test.
The term “Level 2” refers to systems that go beyond classic partial automation (SAE Level 2) but do not yet perform a complete driving task. While Level 2 systems can steer and brake or accelerate at the same time, the driver always remains responsible and must remain in control. These systems support the driver, but do not replace them. Level 2 adds advanced functions – such as automated lane changes, better sensor technology and predictive assistance logic, often supported by AI. Nevertheless, permanent monitoring by humans is also necessary here. We have analysed the legal classification of the associated liability issues – for example in the event of accidents involving such systems – in our article here.
Classification: The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) classifies automated driving into six levels.
- Level 0 means no automation at all.
- Level 1 includes individual assistance functions such as cruise control or lane departure warning.
- From level 3, the system takes control independently under certain conditions – but the driver must be able to intervene if necessary.
- Level 4 allows automated driving without a driver in limited scenarios.
- Level 5 describes complete autonomy in all situations.
In addition, the new Ordinance on Automated Driving in Switzerland came into force on 1 March 2025. Among other things, it allows the operation of highly automated vehicles (level 3) on motorways and driverless vehicles (level 4) in defined framework conditions – for example as shuttles in urban zones.
Technology meets law: what driving schools and examiners need to know
Driving schools need to adapt their teaching materials, provide vehicles with appropriate systems and train instructors in a targeted manner. Examiners, on the other hand, need standardised criteria in order to assess skills objectively. This is not just about operation, but also about understanding the system limits and the willingness to take control in good time.
AI in the car – what do I need to know as a test candidate?
In future, test candidates will also have to systematically familiarise themselves with the technical basics, the limits and the duty to intervene in connection with sensor technology and assistance modes. AI-controlled driving functions such as lane keeping, braking or autonomous parking are no longer dreams of the future. The driver remains responsible and must be able to intervene at any time. This requires learner drivers to know the technical basics, recognise potential malfunctions and be able to handle sensitive vehicle data responsibly. Knowledge of data protection law, such as the Data Protection Act and data transmission, is therefore becoming increasingly important – even for legal laypersons!
Recommendations for practice
Driving schools should:
- update their teaching materials on driver assistance systems (DAS),
- acquire suitable on-board infrastructure and
- train their instructors accordingly.
Transport authorities are challenged:
- definestandardised test criteria and classifications
- publishclear test criteria and system classifications.
In turn,companies with vehicle fleets should:
- develop internal training standards on DAS and automated driving to minimise risk.
Conclusion and outlook
The newly designed driving test marks a paradigm shift: technical competence is becoming an integral part of driving safety. The legislation thus recognises the reality of networked mobility. In the long term, the role of the driver could change fundamentally: Will only the ability to control be checked in future? Or will the car even drive up to the test on its own at some point?
Driving schools are also facing a change: in future, they will have to position themselves not only as driving instructors, but also as technical trainers – a development that will permanently change the job description.