Driving test failures in Switzerland could require psychological assessments
Swiss Driving Fitness Assessment: A Comprehensive Process
In Switzerland, the process of assessing a driver's fitness, particularly when concerns arise about their mental or cognitive capacity, follows a systematic approach. This assessment is typically part of a broader medical fitness examination.
The Assessment Process
The process begins with a Preliminary Examination by the competent cantonal authority. This involves gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, or other documents that suggest potential incapacity or unsuitability for driving.
If medical or psychological capacity is in question, a Expert Assessment is conducted. Specialised doctors or psychological experts are appointed to evaluate the driver's mental fitness. This may involve cognitive tests, psychiatric evaluation, or neuropsychological testing to identify any behavioural or mental limitations that could affect driving ability.
The individual under assessment has the Right to Information and Hearing. They must be informed of the potential withdrawal or limitation of their driving license and the reasons behind it. They have the right to present their case, evidence, or testimony to contest the findings or decision.
After reviewing all evidence, including psychological evaluations, the authority makes a Decision and Communication. If the license is withdrawn or restricted, the decision is communicated clearly with reasoning based on applicable laws.
If the license is revoked, it usually takes effect immediately, and the individual must surrender their license to authorities. This is the Enforcement phase of the process.
The Evaluation Details
The evaluation process includes an interview with a psychologist and uses a specially designed computerized testing system. The test assesses visual perception, attention, concentration, reaction behavior, and hand-eye coordination. The goal is to determine whether the person has a "reasonable and responsible" attitude toward road traffic.
The cost of the psychological evaluation varies depending on the canton, ranging from 900 to 1,600 francs. If someone fails their driving test three times, a brain function assessment is required to test cognitive fitness for driving. This assessment is conducted by specialized units within the Traffic Offices in each canton, or by the Traffic Medicine division of Zurich University, the Traffic Medicine and Psychology Unit at Geneva and Vaud university hospitals - HUG and CHUV, respectively.
Foreigners in Switzerland can drive on a non-Swiss license for up to 12 months, but must swap it for a Swiss license afterwards, with exceptions for diplomats. If a contraindication is found during the test, the individual will not be permitted to drive in Switzerland.
It's worth noting that a learner's license is no longer valid after a fourth failure. Countries with a reciprocal recognition program with Switzerland allow drivers to exchange their licenses for a Swiss one, while others may require the Swiss practical driving test or both theory and practical tests. The entire process, including the test and interview, usually lasts between two and three hours.
While detailed procedural guidelines on the exact psychological tests used in Switzerland for driving fitness are not specified, these evaluations form part of the broader medical review process conducted by authorized experts. The procedure adheres to principles of fairness, evidence gathering, and expert consultation.
