Driving licence in Finland

In Finland, the car driver's training can be obtained either in a private driving school or given by a near relative who has a [driver's license]. If the person is trained by a relative, the relative must obtain a special instructor's permit and have a car fitted and inspected with an extra set of brake pedals for the front passenger. The training for B class license requires 15 hours of instructed driving, including a spell on a slippery driving course, and 20 theory lessons. After this, the person must pass a computerized theory test and a driving test in city traffic with a minimum length of 30 minutes. C class training is similar, but longer.

The initial license is issued for two years. During this time, the new driver may receive a maximum of two traffic fines in total. If the number of fines is exceeded, the license is revoked and the driver is required to re-take the exam. Even with one fine, the interim period may be extended for a maximum of two years. During the interim period, the new driver must pass a short refresher course, which includes a slippery driving course, and participate in dark time driving training, unless this was part of the initial training. (Finnish lighting conditions prevent the dark time training during summer.)

The motorcycles are divided in three categories. Anyone born before 1985 may drive a moped. Persons born in 1985 or after may obtain a moped driver's license at the age of 15. This requires passing a simple computerized theory exam. The A1 license, allowing the use of light motorbikes, may be obtained at the age of 16. The practical training is done independently in traffic after a training permit has been obtained from the police. Theoretical training includes 12 theory lessons. A person who has A1 license can get a full A license after holding the A1 for two years. After the age of 21, a person can obtain the A license directly, without holding an A1 license first.

The use of tractors and motorized sleighs is allowed for anyone with a valid B class license. However, it is possible to obtain the T class license for these vehicles already at the age of 15 by passing a simple theory exam.

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