If you’re planning to rent a car and drive on Swiss highways instead of using public transport, you’ll need to understand the Swiss Vignette a toll system unlike those in most other European countries. Instead of paying at toll booths, Switzerland uses a prepaid sticker or digital pass to grant access to its national motorway network.
This guide explains what the Swiss Vignette is, who needs it, how much it costs, where to buy it, and what happens if you don’t have one.
What Is Swiss Vignette?
The Swiss Vignette is a mandatory toll pass required for driving on most Swiss highways (Autobahnen). It’s a flat-rate system: once you purchase the vignette, you can drive on all eligible highways as much as you like for the calendar year.
Validity: From December 1 of the previous year to January 31 of the following year
Cost: CHF 40 (approx. €42 or $45)
Switzerland offers two versions:
- Sticker: Affixed to your vehicle’s windshield
- Digital: Linked to your license plate via online registration
Both options are equal in cost and validity, and you can choose the format that suits your travel plans.
Who Needs the Vignette?
Anyone operating a vehicle under 3.5 tons including cars, motorcycles, and small vans—must have a valid vignette when driving on Swiss motorways. This includes:
- Swiss residents
- Foreign visitors
- Rental cars and private vehicles
If you’re only driving on local or mountain roads and avoiding highways entirely, a vignette may not be necessary. However, most travelers will use highways at some point during their trip.
Check Also: Renting a Car in Switzerland – The Ultimate Guide
How Much Does the Swiss Vignette Cost?
There are no short-term passes in Switzerland (e.g., 10-day or monthly vignettes), unlike countries like Austria or Slovenia. Even if you’re visiting for just a few days, you must purchase the full-year vignette.
Where to Buy the Vignette:
You can purchase either version from several reliable sources.
Sticker Version
- Gas stations across Switzerland
- Swiss border crossings
- Swiss post offices
- Auto clubs in neighboring countries (e.g., ADAC in Germany, ÖAMTC in Austria)
Digital Version
- Official website: via.admin.ch
- Available immediately upon purchase
- License plate is digitally registered no physical display required
If you’re renting a car in Switzerland, the vignette is usually already included. Always double-check with your rental provider before driving.
How to Use the Vignette?
Physical Sticker
- Affix inside the front windshield, ideally behind the rearview mirror or in the lower-left corner
- Do not place it on the dashboard it will be considered invalid
Digital Vignette
- Purchase online and register your license plate
- No physical sticker is needed; enforcement is automated
What Happens If You Don’t Have One?
Driving on Swiss motorways without a valid vignette is a serious offense.
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| No valid vignette | CHF 200 fine + vignette cost |
| Improperly installed sticker | Treated as “no vignette” |
Swiss police and border officials perform regular checks, and enforcement is strict.
Additional Toll Roads in Switzerland:
While the vignette covers most highways, some tunnels and alpine routes require additional tolls. Here’s a comparison:
| Route / Tunnel | Type | Approx. Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great St. Bernard Tunnel | Toll tunnel | CHF 30–50 | Connects to Italy |
| Munt la Schera Tunnel | Toll tunnel | CHF 15–20 | One-lane with alternating timed traffic |
| Lötschberg Car Train | Vehicle train | CHF 27+ | Kandersteg to Goppenstein |
| Furka Car Train | Vehicle train | CHF 25–30 | Realp to Oberwald |
| Vereina Tunnel | Vehicle train | CHF 35–50 | Engadin to Prättigau |
| Gotthard / San Bernardino Tunnels | Covered by vignette | Free | Expect delays during peak travel times |
To avoid surprises, check toll prices and schedules on official transport or railway websites before your trip.
Additional Tips for Driving in Switzerland:
- Buy your vignette in advance if entering Switzerland by car
- Avoid the Gotthard Tunnel on weekends during summer due to heavy congestion
- Snow tires or chains may be required in winter
- Speed limits are strictly enforced by automated cameras
- Urban parking is expensive confirm hotel parking options in advance
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I transfer a vignette to another vehicle?
No. The vignette is non-transferable and valid only for the vehicle to which it is affixed or registered.
Is the vignette valid in Liechtenstein?
No, but Liechtenstein has no motorways requiring a vignette.
Can I get a refund if I leave early?
No refunds are offered once a vignette is issued.
