Switzerland Can Jail Drivers 40 km/h Over a 30 Zone (2026)

Switzerland’s so-called Raser law treats extreme speeding as a criminal matter: go 40 km/h over in a 30 zone, 50 over in a 50 zone, 60 over in an 80 zone, or 80 over above that, and the penalty is one to four years in prison plus possible confiscation of the car. Even ordinary speeding adds up fast — 6 to 10 km/h over the urban limit already carries a CHF 120 fixed fine, rising to court-ordered, income-based fines above that. The blood-alcohol limit is 0.05%, and drivers can be licensed from age 17.

Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05% BAC. You must be at least 17 to drive.

Emergency Numbers in Switzerland

General Emergency: 112 | Police: 117 | Ambulance: 144 | Fire: 118

Save these numbers before you start driving. In Switzerland, emergency calls are free from any phone.

Speed Limits in Switzerland

The default speed limits for passenger cars in Switzerland are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways.

Trucks and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes have lower limits: 50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural, and 80 km/h on motorways.

For comparison, motorway limits in nearby countries: Germany (130 km/h), France (130 km/h), Italy (130 km/h).

Switzerland uses an extensive network of fixed and mobile speed cameras. The typical enforcement tolerance is about 3 km/h.

Important: Posted signs always override default limits. Watch for temporary restrictions in construction zones, near schools, and in residential areas.

Speeding Fines and Penalties

Speeding fines in Switzerland escalate based on how far you exceed the limit. Exceeding by up to 10 km/h: CHF 120 (approx. EUR 120). Exceeding by 11-20 km/h: CHF 250 (approx. EUR 250). Over 20 km/h: Income-based fine + licence suspension; over 25 km/h in cities triggers criminal proceedings or more.

Warning for foreign drivers: Switzerland pursues unpaid fines through cross-border enforcement agreements. You may receive a penalty notice at your home address weeks or months after your trip.

Other common fines:

• Mobile phone use while driving: CHF 100 (approx. EUR 100)
• Running a red light: CHF 250 (approx. EUR 250)
• Seatbelt violation: CHF 60 (approx. EUR 60)

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Drive on the right side of the road. Overtake on the left. At roundabouts, enter counter-clockwise and yield to traffic already circulating.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children must use appropriate restraint systems based on their age and height.

Using a hand-held phone while driving is illegal. The fine is CHF 100 (approx. EUR 100). Use hands-free devices only.

Daytime running lights are required in most situations. Dipped headlights must be used in tunnels, rain, and reduced visibility.

At unmarked intersections, traffic from the right generally has priority unless signs indicate otherwise.

Drink-Driving Laws and Alcohol Limits

The legal blood alcohol limit in Switzerland is 0.05% BAC. Exceeding this limit results in fines, licence suspension, and possible criminal charges. For novice drivers and professional drivers, stricter limits may apply.

The safest approach is to not drink at all if you will be driving. Alcohol affects reaction time and judgement regardless of the legal limit.

Tyre Requirements and Regulations

Winter tyres in Switzerland are situational — they are required when road conditions demand it (snow, ice, slush). There is no fixed calendar period, but you are legally responsible for equipping your vehicle appropriately.

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. Safety experts recommend replacing tyres at 4.0 mm for adequate grip.

Studded tyres: restricted.

For detailed tyre law information, see our Tyre Laws in Switzerland guide.

Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

Vehicles in Switzerland must carry the following:

Required:

• Warning triangle

Recommended:

• Reflective vest (high-visibility)
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Spare bulbs

Keep all equipment accessible — not buried under luggage. Police may check during routine stops.

Driving License Requirements

EU and EEA driving licences are valid in Switzerland without additional documentation. Always carry your original driving licence — photocopies are not accepted. Your foreign licence is valid for up to 12 months.

The minimum driving age is 17 years.

EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors can drive for 12 months with IDP.

Parking and Fuel

City-centre parking in Switzerland is typically paid — use parking meters, ticket machines, or mobile payment apps. Look for P+R (park and ride) facilities on the outskirts connected to public transport.

Current fuel prices in Switzerland: petrol approximately $1.92/litre, diesel $1.95/litre (USD). Prices vary by region and station.

Most fuel stations accept major credit and debit cards. In rural areas, keep your tank above half — stations may be far apart.

Seasonal Driving Conditions

Switzerland has a temperate maritime climate. Rain is common throughout the year — keep headlights on in reduced visibility and increase following distance on wet roads.

Winters may bring frost and ice on some mornings. Summer conditions are generally good for driving.

Useful Driving Phrases in German

Knowing a few phrases in German helps at fuel stations, toll booths, and during police checks:

Download the German language pack in your translation app for offline use.

Practical Driving Tips for Switzerland

• Speed camera detector apps and devices are illegal — using one can result in confiscation and fines.
• Dashcams are legal and recommended for evidence in case of an accident.
• Police can issue on-the-spot fines. Carry cash or a valid payment card.
• Download offline maps of Switzerland before your trip — mobile signal can be unreliable on rural roads.
• Check if you need a motorway vignette (toll sticker) or an environmental zone sticker for city driving.
• Take a break every 2 hours on long drives. Fatigue is a leading cause of road accidents.
• Use our interactive tools on this page — compare rules with your home country and calculate potential fines before you set off.