Everything about the theory test and the driving licence for category D1 in Switzerland – for smaller buses and passenger transport up to 16 people.
With category D1 you may drive motor vehicles for passenger transport with a maximum of 16 seats (excluding the driver's seat).
👉 This category is ideal for smaller groups, shuttle services and specialised passenger transport.
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🚐 What is category D1?
Category D1 entitles you to drive motor vehicles for passenger transport with a maximum of 16 seats (excluding the driver's seat).
It forms the link between category B (car) and category D (bus).
💡 D1 is particularly suitable if you want to transport smaller groups without driving a large bus.
🚗 Typical vehicles of category D1
Many vehicles used in everyday and professional life fall into category D1:
- minibuses and small buses
- hotel and airport shuttles
- school and club vehicles
- transport vehicles for smaller groups
- special vehicles in passenger transport
👉 These vehicles are often used for flexible and local transport.
🔗 What is category D1E?
Category D1E extends category D1 and allows you to drive vehicles with a trailer.
Typical applications are:
- small buses with luggage trailer
- shuttle vehicles with additional storage space
- vehicle combinations in the leisure or club sector
💡 D1E is particularly relevant when additional material or luggage has to be transported.
🧠 What do you learn for the theory test?
The theory test for category D1 builds on the car theory but extends it with important content for passenger transport.
- traffic rules and signalling
- responsibility towards passengers
- safe boarding and alighting
- driving behaviour with larger vehicles
- anticipatory and defensive driving
- vehicle checks
This content is decisive for the safety of your passengers.
⚖️ Difference to category D
The most important difference between D1 and D lies in the number of people:
- D1: up to 16 people → smaller vehicles
- D: more than 16 people → large buses
👉 D1 is ideal for smaller transport, whereas D is used for classic bus transport.
✅ How e.driver supports you
With e.driver Professional you prepare specifically for category D1:
- structured learning path
- easy-to-understand content for passenger transport
- exam-like questions
- learn on the app and web app
❓ Frequently asked questions about D1
When do I need category D1?
If you want to transport more than 8 but a maximum of 16 people, e.g. with a small bus.
What is the difference to category B?
With category B you may only drive vehicles for up to 8 people. D1 extends this to up to 16 people.
Is D1 easier than D?
D1 is designed for smaller vehicles and is generally less complex than category D.
Do I need D1E?
Only if you also want to use a trailer.
Can I drive professionally with D1?
Yes, e.g. in the shuttle, hotel or club sector.
🎯 Your next step
Start now with your preparation for category D1.
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