Understanding Risk 1 in Sweden: An Important Step in Driver Training

What is Risk 1?

Risk 1 is the theory-based part of Sweden’s mandatory risk education for B licence drivers. While Risk 2 (halkbana) focuses on practical driving in slippery conditions, Risk 1 looks at the human factors that contribute to accidents.

During the course, you’ll discuss and reflect on:

• The dangers of alcohol and drugs while driving.

• How fatigue and distraction affect reaction times.

• Peer pressure, stress, and risky behavior behind the wheel.

• Real-world accident statistics and case studies.

It’s not about memorizing facts—it’s about understanding how everyday choices can make the difference between a safe journey and a dangerous situation.

Why is Risk 1 Mandatory?

The Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) requires every licence candidate to complete Risk 1. The reasoning is clear: many road accidents are not caused by poor technical driving skills, but by bad decisions.

By raising awareness of how substances, fatigue, and behavior impact driving, Sweden aims to reduce preventable accidents.

📖 Learn more directly from Transportstyrelsen’s official guide on Riskutbildning.

When Should You Take Risk 1?

• Timing: You can take Risk 1 early in your licence journey—even before you start practical driving. Many students complete it in the beginning.

• Validity: Risk 1 (and Risk 2) are both valid for five years.

• Requirement: You must have passed both Risk 1 and Risk 2 before you can book your theory and practical tests with Trafikverket.

👉 Use Trafikverket’s booking system to find approved providers in your area.

What to Expect in Risk 1

Risk 1 usually takes 3–4 hours in a classroom or online environment led by a certified instructor.

Here’s the structure you can expect:

1. Introduction – Goals of the training and expectations.

2. Alcohol & Drugs – Impact on judgment, coordination, and legal consequences.

3. Fatigue & Stress – How tiredness or pressure can be just as dangerous as alcohol.

4. Distraction – Mobile phones, passengers, and multitasking while driving.

5. Discussion & Reflection – Group discussions, videos, and scenarios that encourage reflection.

There is no exam—participation and engagement are what matter.

How to Prepare

• Come with an open mind – Risk 1 is about self-reflection more than memorization.

• Be ready to participate – Instructors often encourage questions and group discussions.

• Think about real-life situations – Relating the content to your own experiences makes it more impactful.

Final Thoughts

Risk 1 is not just a formality. It’s a chance to rethink how you approach driving and to understand the risks you might not normally consider. By completing this step, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a safer and more responsible driver on Sweden’s roads.

✅ Next step after Risk 1: Once you’ve completed Risk 1, you’ll later move on to Risk 2 (the slippery track training). Together, these two courses make up Sweden’s renowned Riskutbildning, preparing you for both the challenges of driving and the responsibility it carries.