How to Rent a Car in Switzerland
Renting a car in Switzerland is straightforward but there are key rules about the motorway vignette, winter tyres, and international driving permits you should know.
Step by step
- 1
Check your driving licence validity
EU/EFTA licences are valid for 12 months. Non-EU licences need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your national licence. After 12 months, you must exchange for a Swiss licence.
- 2
Compare providers
Major: Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Avis. Budget: Mobility (car-sharing, excellent for short trips). Compare on check24.ch or TCS.
- 3
Understand the motorway vignette
CHF 40/year. Required for all motorways (Autobahn). Most rental cars include it. If not, buy one at the border, petrol stations, or post offices.
- 4
Winter tyre rules
No legal requirement but strongly recommended Nov–April. If you cause an accident with summer tyres in winter, your insurance may not cover it. Rentals usually include winter tyres in season.
- 5
Fuel and return
Most rentals require full-to-full fuel policy. Petrol costs ~CHF 1.70/litre. Many stations are unmanned — pay by card.
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