Toll roads in Switzerland: everything you need to know about motorway vignettes and tolls
Switzerland has a well-developed network of motorways and national roads that cross the country and connect it with its European neighbors. All vehicles must have a motorway vignette to use these roads . In this article you will learn everything you need to know about toll roads in Switzerland, how to buy a vignette, how much it costs and what fines there are if you travel without a vignette.
What is a freeway vignette?
The Swiss motorway vignette is an official toll levied for the use of motorways and national roads in Switzerland. The vignette is valid for vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes, including cars, motorcycles and trailers. It is mandatory for all vehicles that want to use the Swiss motorway network.
Validity of the vignette
The vignette has a single validity period:
- Annual vignette : valid from December 1 of the previous year to January 31 of the following year, i.e. 14 months in total. There are no daily or weekly vignettes in Switzerland.
The cost of the vignette
A vignette on the freeway in Switzerland costs:
- CHF 40 (Swiss francs) for all vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes, regardless of vehicle category. This applies to both cars and motorcycles.
Important instructions:
- Only one vignette is required per vehicle. However, vehicles with a trailer (such as a caravan) also require a trailer vignette.
- The vignette must be pasted so that it is clearly visible on the inside of the windshield. For motorcycles, it is attached to the vehicle in a prominent place.
Where can I buy a vignette?
The vignette can be easily purchased in various places:
- Gas stations and service stations on motorways in Switzerland and near the border.
- Post offices and points of sale in Switzerland.
- Online shopping : In some European countries, you can also buy a vignette online in advance.
- At border crossings : When you enter Switzerland, you can purchase a vignette directly at the border.
Fines for driving without a vignette
Driving on Swiss motorways without a valid vignette can be expensive. The fine for not having a vignette is 200 Swiss francs plus the cost of the vignette. We therefore advise you to ensure that you have a valid vignette before entering the Swiss motorway.
Electronic vignette from 2024
Since 2024, Switzerland has introduced an electronic vignette , which will complement the traditional adhesive vignette. This will be linked to the vehicle registration number and the purchase can be made online. The electronic vignette offers more flexibility, especially for international travelers, and makes it easier for authorities to check.
Exceptions and toll tunnels
In addition to the vignette, there are separate sections of the route, including tunnels, for which an additional fee is charged . Among the most famous toll tunnels in Switzerland:
- Grand St. Bernard Tunnel : tolls between Switzerland and Italy.
- Munt-la-Schera Tunnel : connects Switzerland to Italy through the Engadin National Park.
For these routes, there are special fees that must be paid regardless of the vignette on the motorway.
Tips for using toll roads in Switzerland
- Buy a vignette in advance : If you know you are going to travel to Switzerland, buy a vignette in advance to avoid delays at the border.
- Check the placement of the vignette : Make sure the vignette is clearly visible on the windshield to avoid fines.
- Be aware of additional tunnel tolls : Plan your route in advance and consider possible additional tolls when traveling through certain tunnels.
The Swiss Motorway Vignette is a simple and economical way to use the country’s excellent motorway network. At a cost of 40 Swiss francs per year, it is mandatory for all vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes. Make sure the vignette is placed in a prominent place and find out in time about the additional tunnel charges. So you can enjoy your trip to Switzerland without stress or unpleasant surprises!