Switzerland

Currency in Switzerland
Swiss Franc (CHF)

Languages in Switzerland
German, French, Italian and Romansh

Time Difference in Switzerland
GMT +01:00

Speed Limits in Switzerland

• Urban areas: 50kph/31 mph
• Other roads: 80kph/50 mph
• Motorways: 120kph/74 mph

Drinking and Driving in Switzerland
The legal limit for drink driving is 80mg. Please take our advice and don't drive if you’re drinking.

Tourist Information
Switzerland Tourist Information

Switzerland

All renters should carry a copy of their driver’ s licence and rental agreement documents.

Swiss authorities levy an annual motorway tax and a vehicle sticker (CHF40 for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes maximum total weight and known as a ‘vignette’) this must be displayed in the prescribed manner by any vehicle using Swiss motorways and semi-motorways. The stickers may be purchased from customs offices located at the border or service stations across the country. Vehicles weighing over 3.5 tonnes are taxed on all roads.

Essential Driving Equipment in Switzerland

A warning triangle should be included in your vehicle and kept within easy reach (not in the trunk/boot).

A GPS system which has maps that indicate the location of fixed speed cameras, must have the ‘fixed speed camera PoI (Points of Interest)’ function deactivated. Vehicles with spiked tyres are prohibited on motorways and semi motorways except for certain parts of the A13 and A2.

Snow tyres are not compulsory but vehicles not equipped to travel through snow, which impede traffic are liable for a fine. The use of snow chains is compulsory in areas indicated by road signs. Snow chains must be fitted to at least two drive wheels.

Switzerland

It is customary to drive on the right hand side of the road and to overtake on the left hand side.

A "vignette" must be displayed in your windshield when driving on motorways.

All passengers must wear seatbelts wear fitted.

Vehicles driving uphill have right of way on narrow, mountain roads.

In Switzerland, pedestrians have the right of way and expect vehicles to stop. Look out for pedestrians who step out on the road, expecting your vehicle to stop.

Drivers involved in an accident who decide not to call the police must complete a European Accident Claim Form.

During daylight hours, outside of built-up areas, drivers must beep their horns before sharp bends where visibility is limited. After dark, this warning must be given by flashing headlights.

Dipped headlights must be used during the day. This is recommended for all vehicles. It is also compulsory when passing through tunnels, even if they are well lit. A fine may be imposed for non-compliance.

Switzerland

Drivers suspected of exceeding the alcohol limit may be requested to undergo a breath test or drugs test by police. Visiting motorists may be forbidden from driving in Switzerland for a minimum of two months.

On-the-spot fines are imposed for some road traffic offences. Vehicle clamps are not in operation in Switzerland. However vehicles causing an obstruction can be removed.