When travelling in Switzerland check what items of motoring equipment are required.
Essential Items
- Headlamp Beam Adaptors
- GB Plate
- Warning Triangle
Strongly Advisable Items
- Spare Bulbs
- First Aid Kit
- Fire Extinguisher
- Reflective Vest
Other Information
Speed Limit - km/hr (mph)
Motorways Major roads outside towns Built-up areas
120 (74) 80 (50) 50 (31)
With trailer (less than 1000kg): 80 (50)
80 (50)
50 (31)
With trailer (more than 1000kg): 60 (37)
60 (37)
50 (31)
Seat Belts
- Compulsory in front seats and rear seats if fitted.
- Under 12 years are not allowed in front unless in an approved seat or harness.
Motorways
- Motorway (autobahn) signs are coloured green.
- To use a motorway in Switzerland a 'vignette' pass must be displayed in the windscreen. These can be purchased from the border or service stations before entering the country.
Drinking and Driving
The level of alcohol in the blood must be below 0.8 g/l. Visiting drivers exceeding this level will be imprisoned.
Minimum Tyre Depth
1.8mm.
Fines
- Fines are imposed for using motorways without displaying a vignette.
- Motoring offences will attract fines.
- Police are authorised to impose and collect fines on the spot. They must issue a receipt for the amount paid.
Parking
- Blue disc parking zones operate and discs can be obtained from petrol stations, garages, kiosks and police stations.
- Wheel clamps can be used on illegally parked cars.
- Do not park on the pavement.
Emergency Phone Numbers
- Police 117
- Fire Service 118
- Ambulance 117 or 114
Additional Notes
- A maximum of 25 litres of spare fuel may be imported and carried in an approved can.
- Spectacle wearers are required to carry a spare pair.
- Dipped headlights should be used in poor visibility / snow / tunnels, do not drive on sidelights alone.
- Snow chains/tyres may be required in winter.
- Seasonal restrictions apply on certain mountain roads and passes.
- On narrow mountain roads vehicles travelling uphill assume the right of way.
- In some areas the engine must be switched off if waiting for any length of time (traffic lights, rail crossings).
