Driving in Switzerland? Don't Get a CHF 240 Surprise.
Everything You Need to Know About the Swiss Motorway Vignette. The Ultimate 2024 Guide.
See the PenaltiesWhat Exactly is the Swiss Vignette?
The Swiss vignette is a mandatory toll sticker for all vehicles (up to 3.5 tons) using Switzerland's national motorways and expressways (A and N roads). It's a pre-payment system for road usage, required for cars, motorcycles, trailers, and caravans. Without it, you face hefty fines.
- Required for: Cars, motorcycles, trailers, and caravans up to 3.5t
- Covers: National motorways and expressways, facilitating smooth travel across the country's extensive road network.
- Format: Available as a physical sticker to be affixed to your windshield or a convenient digital e-vignette linked directly to your license plate.
Understanding the vignette is your first step to a stress-free journey through Switzerland's breathtaking landscapes. It's not just a toll; it's a permit to explore the beauty of this Alpine nation with peace of mind. Ensure you have the correct vignette to avoid unnecessary complications and enjoy your travels.
Cost and Validity: One Price, 14 Months
Fixed Price
CHF 40
The Swiss vignette has a standard, non-negotiable price for all vehicles up to 3.5 tons. There are no variable rates based on vehicle type or distance, making it incredibly straightforward.
14-Month Validity
Dec 1 - Jan 31
It's valid from December 1st of the previous year to January 31st of the subsequent year. This extended period offers excellent value, even for late-in-the-year purchases.
No Alternatives
Annual Only
Unlike some other countries, Switzerland does not offer daily, weekly, or monthly vignettes. Regardless of your stay duration, the annual vignette is your only option for motorway travel.
Where to Buy Your Vignette
Online (E-Vignette)
The easiest way! Purchase officially online and link it to your license plate. No physical sticker needed, ensuring a seamless start to your journey.
Border Crossings
Available at all Swiss border control points upon entering the country. Look for clear signs for where to purchase immediately after crossing.
Post Offices
Can be purchased at any official Swiss Post office branch throughout the country. A convenient option once you're already in Switzerland.
Gas Stations
Most gas stations and rest stops along the motorway, especially close to borders, sell the physical vignette. A common and accessible point of sale.
How to Apply The Sticker Correctly
Improper placement is the same as having no vignette. Don't make this costly mistake when you enter Switzerland!
Correct Placement
- Inside the windshield: Must be affixed on the inside of the windscreen; sticking it on the outside is generally not permitted and risks damage or theft.
- On the driver's side (top or bottom edge) or behind the rearview mirror: Choose a spot where it doesn't obstruct your view but is easily visible for inspection.
- Must be clearly visible from the outside: Ensure no tinted strips, wipers, or other objects obscure the vignette. It must be legible.
- Directly on the glass, not on a tinted strip: Peel off the backing and apply it directly to the clean glass. Using tape or other adhesives is strictly forbidden.
Incorrect and Illegal
- Taped to the windshield: Any form of adhesive other than its own glue is prohibited. It must be permanently stuck.
- Placed in the glove box: The vignette must always be affixed to the windshield, not merely carried in the vehicle.
- Obscured by a sun visor or tint: If the vignette cannot be clearly seen from outside the vehicle, it's considered invalid.
- Not affixed at all, or only partially: The entire adhesive surface must be firmly attached to the glass. Do not fold or cut it.
The Consequences: A Costly Mistake
Driving without a properly affixed or valid Swiss motorway vignette can turn an otherwise beautiful journey into an expensive encounter with Swiss authorities.
CHF 200
This is the on-the-spot fine for driving on a Swiss motorway without a valid and correctly displayed vignette.
Your Total Immediate Cost:
Important Additional Warnings:
- The same CHF 200 fine applies for an improperly affixed vignette: Simply having one isn't enough; it must be correctly placed and visible.
- Trailers and caravans need their own vignette and face separate fines: Each vehicle, including towed ones, requires its own valid vignette.
- Using a counterfeit or transferred vignette can lead to criminal charges: This includes attempting to reuse a removed vignette or using one from another vehicle.
- Payment is often required on the spot, even for foreign drivers: Be prepared for immediate payment or your vehicle may be impounded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Every trailer and caravan requires its own separate vignette, costing an additional CHF 40. Failure to have one on the trailer will result in a separate CHF 200 fine, even if the car has a valid one. This is a common oversight that can lead to unexpected costs, so plan accordingly for all your towed vehicles.
Yes, motorcycles also require a vignette. It must be affixed to a non-interchangeable, easily visible part of the motorcycle, such as the fork or frame. Ensure it is placed securely where it cannot be easily removed or damaged, and where it is clearly visible to traffic police.
No. The vignette covers most motorways, but certain tunnels require a separate toll. The most common ares the Great St. Bernard Tunnel, which connects Switzerland and Italy, and the Munt La Schera Tunnel, providing access to Livigno. Always check your specific route for these special tolls to avoid surprises.
No. A physical vignette is tied to the vehicle and is designed to be destroyed upon removal, making it non-transferable. You must purchase a new one for your new vehicle. However, if you have an e-vignette, you can transfer it to a new vehicle once per year if you retain the same license plate, offering more flexibility.
If your windshield is replaced due to damage, some insurance companies may cover the cost of a new vignette. You must provide the old, damaged vignette as proof to your insurance provider to claim reimbursement. Always keep the remnants of the old vignette and obtain documentation from the repair shop.
What Our Readers Are Saying
“This guide saved me from a huge headache! I knew nothing about the vignette until I found ViaSwag. The details on penalties were a real eye-opener. Thank you for the clear, actionable advice!”
— Anna Schmidt, Germany
“Navigating European tolls can be tricky, but ViaSwag breaks down the Swiss vignette perfectly. The section on correct application literally stopped me from making a costly mistake. Highly recommend!”
— Julian Dubois, France
“I travel often to Switzerland for business. The e-vignette information here steered me to the official site and made my travel so much smoother. No more sticker hassle!”
— Elena Rossi, Italy
“The FAQ section was brilliant. I had specific questions about my caravan, and this guide answered them precisely. Worth reading before any Swiss road trip.”
— Pieter Van der Meer, Netherlands
“Finally, a clear and comprehensive resource for the Swiss vignette. The cost breakdown and warnings about incorrect placement are vital for any foreign driver.”
— Sophia Müller, Austria
More Swiss Travel Tips?
Follow ViaSwag for guides, insider tips, and inspiring stories for your next adventure through the stunning landscapes and charming towns of Switzerland.
Stay Connected!
Reach Out to Us
For press inquiries, collaboration opportunities, or general questions about Swiss travel, feel free to reach out:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +41 44 3361537
Find us on the map!
While we're a travel blog, our home base is nestled in the heart of Switzerland.