For driving in Switzerland, here’s how it works with driving licenses, and how rules apply for foreign visitors:
1. If You’re Visiting as a Tourist #
EU/EFTA citizens:
You can drive with your home country license—no International Driving Permit (IDP) required.
Non-EU countries (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia, etc.):
If your license is in English, German, French, or Italian, you can usually drive without an IDP.
If your license is in another language (e.g. Chinese, Russian, Arabic, Japanese), you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your home license.
2. Car Rentals in Switzerland #
Rental companies typically require:
A valid driving license (at least 1 year old).
Passport.
Credit card for deposit.
Some companies strongly recommend or require an IDP if your license isn’t in a common European language—even if the law doesn’t strictly demand it.
3. Long-Term Stays #
If you move to Switzerland (residence permit), you can drive with your foreign license for up to 12 months. After that, you must exchange it for a Swiss license (sometimes with a test, depending on your country).
Here’s a country-by-country guide to whether you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving in Switzerland:
✅ No IDP Required (license accepted as-is) #
European Union (EU) & EFTA countries → Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, etc.
United Kingdom
USA (license in English)
Canada (license in English/French)
Australia & New Zealand (English licenses)
South Africa (English license)
Singapore (English license)
⚠️ Recommended (but not always legally required) #
If your license is in English, French, German, or Italian, it’s usually fine.
However, some rental car companies may still ask for an IDP as an extra document.
For countries like Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, where licenses are in Spanish or Portuguese, an IDP is recommended to avoid misunderstandings with police or rental agencies.
❗ IDP Required #
If your license is in a non-Latin alphabet (not easily readable in Europe), you need an IDP plus your national license.
China
Japan
Korea
Russia
Arab-speaking countries (e.g., Saudi Arabia, UAE if not bilingual)
India (many Indian states still issue licenses only in Hindi/regional language, though some now have English too—best to carry IDP just in case).
🚘 Practical Tips #
Always carry your home license + IDP together (the IDP is just a translation, not valid alone).
IDPs are cheap and easy to get in most countries—worth it if you’re unsure.
If renting, confirm with the rental agency before booking.
💡 Traveler tip: Even if not legally required, having an IDP avoids headaches if you’re stopped by police or need to file insurance.
✅ Bottom line:
Short trip + English/German/French/Italian license → No IDP needed.
License in another language → Get an IDP before you travel (better safe than sorry).
Renting a car? Check the rental company’s requirements in advance.
