English
In Norway, obtaining a driver's license is a structured process with mandatory steps to ensure that drivers are well-prepared and meet the country's traffic safety standards. Below is a step-by-step guide for mandatory training to obtain a Norwegian driver's license.
Step-by-step training
Category B training consists of four steps. The objectives for each step outline what the learner needs to achieve in order to effectively progress to the next stage of training. The goal is for the skills and knowledge acquired in each step to build upon the previous one. Together, the objectives of steps 1 through 4 define the competencies required to qualify for a Category B driving license.
Step one
At Step 1, the focus is primarily on helping the learner understand risk and the traffic system. This step includes a Basic Traffic Course, which is the same for all light vehicle categories. The purpose of this course is to give the learner a foundational understanding of driving proficiency and the driver's responsibilities. The course also covers first aid training and driving in low visibility conditions, such as driving in the dark.
The course consists of 17 hours of mandatory training, including:
- 10 hours of theory on basic traffic knowledge
- 4 hours of First Aid
- 3 hours of Night Driving Course
If you are over 25 years old you only need to complete the First Aid Course and Night Driving Course before taking the driving test.
Step two
At Step 2, the learner driver focuses on mastering the technical skills required to control the vehicle, without needing to worry about other road users. Developing good technical driving skills is essential to progress to Step 3 training and will contribute to driving more economically and eco-friendly. During this step, the learner will gain knowledge about the vehicle, the driver's responsibilities, and basic understanding of the human factor and road conditions. There is no set minimum number of hours for training at this step; the training should be tailored to the learner’s needs and opportunities for practice.
Towards the end of Step 2, the learner must complete an assessment in accordance with Section 7-5 of the Regulations. Based on their performance, the learner will evaluate whether they have met the goals for this step and if they are ready for further training. Instructors will provide recommendations on whether the learner has acquired the necessary competence to proceed to the next stage of training.
Mandatory
- End-of-step assessmentent
Step three
At Step 3, the focus is on enhancing the learner's ability to drive proficiently in traffic, in various road and traffic environments. This step also includes understanding the relevant provisions of road traffic legislation. By the end of Step 3, the learner should be capable of driving independently and demonstrating a performance level that is nearly aligned with the requirements for passing the driving test. There is no set minimum number of hours for training at this step; the training should be tailored to the learner's prior experience and opportunities for driving practice.
Towards the end of Step 3, the learner must complete an end-of-step assessment in accordance with Section 7-5 of the Regulations. Based on their own performance, the learner will evaluate whether they have met the goals for this step and whether they are ready to proceed with further training. Instructors will provide recommendations on whether the learner has the necessary competence to benefit from the next stage of training.
A mandatory safety course on a practice track is required for all candidates seeking a Category B driving entitlement. This course is designed to help learners further develop their skills in accident prevention and includes exercises that cannot be conducted on the road. The safety course should ideally be completed towards the end of Step 3 or, in exceptional cases, in conjunction with the Safety Course on the road during Step 4.
Mandatory
- End-of-step assessmentent
- Safety course on a practice track
Step four
The goals for Step 4 primarily focus on the learner driver's understanding of risk and self-awareness, similar to Step 1. It is crucial that the themes of risk comprehension, knowledge of the rules, and traffic as a system are consistently developed throughout the training, with particular emphasis at both the beginning and the end of the process.
The Safety Course on the Road is mandatory for all candidates seeking a Category B driving entitlement. This course aims to help learners further enhance their skills in accident prevention and includes independent driving practice on the road.
However, the mandatory training alone is usually not enough to fully achieve the main objectives of Category B driver training. Additional practice is necessary, which can be obtained through driving lessons with a driving school, driving practice with a non-professional accompanying driver, or a combination of both.
Step four is a 13 hours mandatory course and is consisting of:
- 2 hours of classroom intstruction on driving risk
- 5 hours of driving in a country road environment
- 4 hours of planning and driving in a varied environment
- 2 hours of summary and reflection
Throughout these steps, the goal is to ensure learners are well-prepared and competent in both technical driving skills and understanding the broader context of driving in traffic.
