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Professional competence certificate for drivers

All about YKB and how to meet the requirements.

Professional competence certificate (YKB) – basic training

The professional competence certificate (YKB) is a requirement to work as a professional truck or bus driver within the EU. The basic training is the first step to getting the YKB, and it is mandatory for anyone who wants to drive freight transport (YKB truck) or passenger transport (YKB bus) professionally. Here we go through everything you need to know about YKB basic training.

What is YKB basic training?

YKB basic training is a comprehensive training course that aims to provide drivers with the knowledge and skills required to carry out transport in a safe and professional manner. It is part of the EU's requirements for professional drivers and applies throughout the EU/EEA area.

There are two types of basic training courses:

  • YKB truck (goods transport): For drivers of heavy trucks (C and CE).

  • YKB bus (passenger transport): For drivers of buses (D and DE).

After the training, you must pass an exam at the Swedish Transport Administration to receive your Vocational Competence Certificate.

How long is the basic training course?

The length of the training depends on your age and the type of transport you will be carrying out:

  • 280 hours: For drivers under 21 years of age (YKB truck) or under 23 years of age (YKB bus).
  • 140 hours: For drivers who are 21 years or older (YKB truck) or 23 years or older (YKB bus).

Practical elements

  • At least 20 hours of driving training: For the longer training of 280 hours.
  • At least 10 hours of driving training: For the shortened training of 140 hours.

What is included in the training?

The basic training covers the following subject areas:

  • Safe driving: How to handle the vehicle in different traffic situations.
  • Economic driving: Techniques to reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.
  • Traffic safety: Identifying risks and preventing accidents.
  • Load securing and passenger safety: How to secure goods safely or how to protect passengers.
  • Regulations: National and international regulations for professional drivers.

After the training, you must pass a written test at the Swedish Transport Administration to receive your Professional Certificate.

What are the requirements for taking the basic training?

To start the YKB basic training, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Driving license: You need a driving license for group 2 or group 3, depending on the type of vehicle.

  • Suitable age: The minimum age to start the training varies depending on the vehicle and the length of the training.

For young drivers who train through upper secondary schools or Komvux, there are special rules that make it possible to become a professional driver at a younger age.

How long is the YKB valid for?

The professional certificate is valid for five years. After that, you must undergo further training to renew it. The further training is 35 hours long and is divided into five sub-courses.

  • YKB truck: If you want to drive heavy trucks professionally, YKB is required for freight transport.
  • YKB bus: If you want to drive buses professionally, YKB is required for passenger transport.

More information about these can be found on the respective pages.

Find a YKB training near you

Teoricentralen collaborates with trainers all over Sweden who offer basic training for YKB. Regardless of whether you are going to drive a truck or a bus, our affiliated trainers can help you get your Vocational Competence Certificate. Use our search function to find a training near you and start your journey towards a career as a professional driver!