Driving in Switzerland
Key road rules in Switzerland you need to know
When you are hiring a car abroad, it’s useful to be prepared for the different driving laws in the country you are travelling to as well as checking the documents you need to carry.
To help make your trip to as smooth as possible, we've put together some of the key road rules in Switzerland.
- These rules are to be used as a guide and are subject to change. Please check with your Avis representative if you have any questions.
- Your Avis representative can advise you on toll and road charges before leaving the Avis car hire location and whether snow tyres or chains are needed.
Take a look at our Switzerland location page for ideas, travelling tips and booking information.
Which Side of the Road?
In Switzerland, please drive on the RIGHT side of the road.
Unique Country Driving Laws
- If involved in an accident, and Police are not needed, you must complete a European Accident Claim Form. Please return this to your Avis representative.
- Indicators should be used when returning to the right-hand lane after overtaking.
- During the day, you must sound your horn outside built-up areas before a sharp bend with limited visibility. At night, flash your headlights instead.
Speed Limits
For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:
- Urban areas: 31 mph (50 km/h)
- Rural areas: 49 mph (80 km/h)
- Motorways: 74mph (120km/h)
Unless indicated by road signs.
Child Safety / Seatbelt Laws
It is compulsory for all inside the vehicle to wear a seatbelt.
- Children under 12 and less than 150cm must be seated in appropriate child restraint for their size.
Please note - It is the child’s parent / guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.
Compulsory Equipment in your Avis rental car
- Warning triangle which needs to be carried inside the car, not in the boot.
Please ask your Avis representative, whether snow tyres are compulsory at the time of your arrival
Emergency Services
- Police
- 117
- Ambulance
- 144
- Fire Department
- 118
- European Emergency Number
- 112