Driving in Switzerland
Do you need to exchange your driving license when moving to Switzerland? How do you do it? What's the process for registering your vehicle? Here's what you need to know if you want to drive in Switzerland.
Can I drive in Switzerland with a license from my country of origin?
Foreign nationals in Switzerland can use their national driving license for up to 12 months. After that period, you'll need to exchange it for a Swiss driving license. Be sure to meet the exchange deadlines to avoid a potential fine.
Good to know:
If your driving license is for professional purposes (coach driver, truck driver, etc.), you must obtain a Swiss driving license as soon as you arrive.
How do I exchange my driving license in Switzerland?
The procedure for exchanging your Swiss driver's license depends on the country where you obtained your original license.
If you have a driving license from a European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) country
You must present your original driving license and pass an eye test. Apart from this, you will have no further check on your driving ability.
You have a driving license issued outside the EU and EEA
In addition to showing your original license and passing an eye test, you'll also need to demonstrate your driving skills by passing a driving test.
Important:
If you are a professional driver, you will need to pass an additional theory test.
Documents needed
Contact the Association des Services des Automobiles (ASA) website in your canton of residence for a detailed list of all the required documents. You can also obtain the address of the SAN in your canton on the website.
As a general rule, the following documents are required for driver's license conversion:
- A duly completed and signed Swiss driver's license application form;
- A passport photo;
- The original driver's license, with official translation if necessary;
- An eye test result;
- Payment of administrative fees;
- Your residence permit.
How do I register an imported car in Switzerland?
Have you imported your vehicle to Switzerland? Keep in mind that you need to register your vehicle in Switzerland after 12 months by producing the following documents:
- A certificate from your insurer proving that you have third-party liability insurance;
- Confirmation of customs clearance;
- Proof of roadworthiness from your vehicle's country of origin;
- The appraisal report issued to you by customs or your garage (form 13.20A);
- An identity document;
- Proof of address.
Registration costs differ depending on your canton of residence. For more details, contact your canton's Department of Motor Vehicles.
Road safety in Switzerland
Speed limits
The Swiss road network is perfectly maintained. Speed controls are strict and numerous. Speed limits are as follows:
- 120 km/h on freeways;
- 100 km/h on semi motorways;
- 80 km/h on primary and secondary roads (outside towns);
- 50 km/h in localities.
Driving under the influence
The permitted blood alcohol level in Switzerland is 0.5 grams per liter of blood, maximum.
Important:
Professional drivers, drivers with a probationary license, student drivers, driving instructors, and accompanying drivers are not allowed to drink.
The vignette
To drive on highways and major roads in Switzerland, you need a vignette (valid for 14 months). It can be bought for 40 CHF at customs offices, post offices, police stations, or gas stations.
Since August 1, 2023, an electronic vignette has been introduced and is used alongside the traditional self-adhesive vignette.
Useful links:
Addresses of cantonal Automobile and Navigation Services (SAN)
