Important Regulations for Driver's License in Switzerland

Having necessary road regulations helps tourists to have a wonderful experience if they should drive in that country, and at the same time, stay away from unnecessary fines and penalties.

Switzerland is no exception to this. Plan on driving in the country. Its geographic variety requires adjusting to various conditions, from motorways and little mountain streets to the best driving roads in Switzerland.

Do Not Drive Without A Driver’s License in Switzerland

Of course, those who don’t have a valid license are not permitted to drive in Switzerland. With one, it’s possible to move into the country. For you to have permission to operate in Switzerland, a driver’s license with an international driver’s permit is required. Always bring this with you to avoid problems in your journey.

Driving Under the Influence

In most countries, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of alcohol is strictly prohibited. All drivers, whether professional or new, are subject to this rule. For your sake and other motorists and pedestrians, it’s highly recommended not to drink at all when you intend to drive. Beware, if you get caught driving while drunk, you face heavy penalties under the driving rules in Switzerland.

Suppose you’re caught with 0.25 to 0.39 millilitres of alcohol per litre (ml per litre) of exhaled air (or 0.5 to 0.79 grams of alcohol per kilogram of blood). In that case, you will be warned and heavily fined for your first offence. Drivers who are breaking other rules or causing an accident caught with these alcohol levels will likely lose their license for at least a month. That goes for the drivers who have repeated DUIs in 2 years.

Drivers caught with 0.4 or more ml per litre of alcohol in their breath have a chance of losing their license on the spot for at least three months! Worse, they will be slapped with fines and face a prison term of up to three years. Penalties vary, depending on the violator’s income and wealth.

Do Not Text and Drive

The needless use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited in Switzerland. Always concentrate on the road. Keep your music volume low so you can hear clearly and avoid distractions. Try not to entertain text messages or phone calls, as using a mobile phone, except for hands-free units, is illegal while driving.

Always Turn Your Headlights On

This may be new to you, but you should have your headlights on regardless of whether the sun’s out. This is mandatory for all cars in motion in Switzerland.

Wear Seatbelts While Driving

Seat belts are mandated for all passengers. If you are bringing children under 12 years old, they must have a special seat if they’re under 150 cm (4’9 feet) tall. The chairs should be suited for their age and weight and carry an official security label that certifies their practical use.

Kids over 150 cm tall and over 12 years old must wear a safety belt. Seats with pelvic restraints, usually used by older cars and minibuses, only children up to 7 years old must be securely utilizing a child security seat. Children are permitted to sit in the front seat, regardless of their age.

Penalties for Disobedience of the Law

Penalties for violating the Swiss traffic laws vary. But, penalties could include impounding of your vehicle, confiscation of license or permanent loss of charge, and up to four years in prison.