Frequently Asked Questions: Switzerland

When is a Vignette Required?

If you plan to drive a car, motorcycle, trailer, caravan, delivery van, or camper (weighing up to 3.5 tonnes) on Swiss motorways and expressways, you will need a motorway vignette sticker.

You have the option to purchase either an e-vignette or a physical vignette sticker. The vignette must be affixed to the inside of the windscreen and should be clearly visible. For vehicles without windows, like trailers, the vignette should be placed on a prominent part of the vehicle that cannot be removed.

How much does a Swiss vignette cost and how long is it valid?

• The cost of a Swiss motorway vignette is CHF 40.
• The 2024 vignette is valid from December 1, 2023, until January 31, 2025.
• There are no options for daily, weekly, or monthly vignettes.
• It’s important to note that driving without a vignette results in a fine of CHF 200, in addition to having to purchase the vignette for CHF 40.

Can the vignette be used for various vehicles?

Electronic Vignette

The electronic vignette is associated with the number plate rather than a specific vehicle. If you possess an interchangeable number plate, you only need to purchase one e-vignette for all vehicles that utilize that plate.

Sticker

In contrast, the sticker is tied to a particular vehicle. Therefore, even if you have interchangeable number plates, you must buy a separate sticker for each vehicle.

How much does a daily vignette for Switzerland cost?

Switzerland does not offer a daily vignette. Instead, it provides an annual vignette that is valid for the entire calendar year.

Where can I most conveniently buy a vignette for Switzerland?

The most efficient method is to buy the electronic vignette from avignette.com. This offers a fast and easy way to get a valid vignette. If you prefer a physical vignette, you can purchase one at border customs stations, Swiss post offices, or gas stations close to the border.

How is the electronic vignette system implemented in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, the electronic vignette system works by recording the vehicle’s license plate number. When you buy an e-vignette on Avignette.com, you need to provide your vehicle’s registration number, which is then logged into the system for the period the vignette is valid. Verification is done electronically, enabling fast and efficient checks to confirm if a vehicle has a valid vignette, eliminating the need for a physical sticker on the vehicle.

Do I need a vignette for my trailer as well?

Yes, trailers must also have a vignette for motorway use, unless they fall under the heavy vehicle charge. However, trailers attached to motorbikes are exempt.

What are the speed limits, and what are the penalties for speeding tickets?

The speed limits are as follows:

• In built-up areas: 50km/h
• Outside built-up areas: 80km/h
• Expressways: 100km/h
• Motorways: 120km/h

If you exceed the speed limit, you must expect the following fines (in francs) or a court summons.

Excess speed	Built-up zones	Expressways (outside built-up zones)	Motorway
1-5 km/h	40.-	40.-	20.-
6-10 km/h	120.-	100.-	60.-
11-15 km/h	250.-	160.-	120.-
16-20 km/h	Summons	240.-	180.-
21-25 km/h	Summons	Summons	260.-
over 25 km/h	Summons	Summons	Summons

What key regulations must you adhere to before driving on Swiss roads?

• A vignette (freeway tax sticker) is required.
• Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and vehicle documents.
• The blood alcohol concentration limit is 0.05%.
• Keep your headlights on at all times, even during the day.
• Stick to the speed limits, as fines for violations can be steep.
• Your vehicle must be equipped with a warning triangle.

Emergency numbers and contacts

Keep these emergency numbers handy during your trip:

• Police: 117
• Fire Brigade: 118
• Ambulance: 144
• Poison Control: 145
• General Emergency Number: 112 (similar to 911 in the US, connects to a dispatch center for appropriate responders)