The driving licence in Switzerland: steps and exchange
Learner's permit, exams, probationary licence, exchanging a foreign licence: how to obtain and get a driving licence recognised in Switzerland.
Getting a Swiss driving licence follows a multi-step path, and new drivers go through a probationary period. If you arrive with a foreign licence, the general rule is simple: you may drive for a while, then you must exchange it.
The main steps
- First-aid course and theory exam, then obtaining the learner's permit.
- Traffic-awareness course and driving lessons.
- Practical exam, then issue of the probationary licence.
The probationary licence lasts three years, with mandatory continuing-education days. Only afterwards is the definitive licence issued. Ages and details can change with reforms — always refer to your canton.
Exchanging a foreign licence
With a valid foreign licence, you can generally drive for twelve months after arriving. After that, exchange is mandatory. For EU/EFTA licences and many recognised countries, the exchange is done without an exam; for others, a control drive or exams may be required.
Frequently asked questions
Can you drive in Switzerland with a foreign licence?
Yes, generally for twelve months after arriving; then exchanging it for a Swiss licence becomes mandatory.
What is the probationary licence?
The licence issued to new drivers for a three-year period, with continuing-education days, before the definitive licence.
Related reading
- Working in Switzerland: work permits and cross-border commuters
B, C and G (cross-border) permits, free movement with the EU, high salaries: what you need to know to work in Switzerland, explained simply.
- Becoming Swiss: naturalisation and residence permits
How many years of residence, what conditions, what three-tier procedure: how you become a Swiss citizen, explained simply.