From Toll Wiki

m (Reverted edits by Deepak-bisht-mapup (talk) to last revision by Mayank Bishwas)
 
(One intermediate revision by one other user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{DISPLAYTITLE: Motorway Vignette in Switzerland- Rates, Validity, Toll Roads}}
+
 
{{#seo:|title=Motorway Vignette in Switzerland- Rates, Validity, Toll Roads}}
 
{{#seo:|keywords=Switzerland motorway, swiss motorway vignette, switzerland vignette online, swiss vignette, Munt la Schera Tunnel}}
 
{{#seo:|description=Know all about Switzerland tolls — motorways and Munt La Schera tunnel, vignette requirement, vignette rate, toll rates, truck toll and more.}}
 
{{#canonics: https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/switzerland-motorway-vignette-tunnel-rates}}
 
 
{{worldMap}}
 
{{worldMap}}
  
__TOC__
+
<div class="shadowCard">
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
= Switzerland Toll Roads 2025: Complete Guide =
Switzerland<ref>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switzerland Switzerland Wikipedia] </ref> , is a mountainous Central European country, home to many lakes, villages, and the high peaks of the Alps. On Swiss Motorways, you need to purchase an electronic vignette<ref name='vignette'>[https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/what-is-vignette What is Vignette]</ref> for vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tonnes. If the weight of your vehicle is over 3.5 tonnes, you need to pay the tolls according to the distance you have traveled on the motorway known as distance-based tolling<ref name='distance-based'>[https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/what-is-distance-based-tolling What is Distance-based tolling]</ref>.<br>
 
  
Use [https://tollguru.com/toll-vignette-calculator-switzerland Switzerland Toll Calculator to calculate Switzerland toll rates].
+
<div style="background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #dee2e6; border-radius: 8px; padding: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px;">
 +
<div style="color: #6c757d; font-size: 14px;">
 +
'''System:''' Annual vignette for cars, distance-based LSVA for trucks<br>
 +
'''Operator:''' Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS)<br>
 +
'''Currency:''' Swiss Franc (CHF)<br>
 +
'''Coverage:''' All 1st and 2nd class national roads (motorways)<br>
 +
'''Technology:''' Sticker vignette or electronic e-vignette
 +
</div>
 
</div>
 
</div>
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;">
== Swiss Motorways in Switzerland ==
+
[https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-switzerland Calculate Switzerland Toll]
Motorways have a toll charge, and toll charges differ according to the weight of the vehicle.
 
* For vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes, a toll sticker ([https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/what-is-vignette vignette]) is mandatory on all motorways.
 
* Vehicles above 3.5 tonnes, tolls are calculated according to the distance you have traveled on the motorways.
 
 
</div>
 
</div>
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
== Do I Need a Vignette for Switzerland? 2025 Update ==
== Munt la Schera Tunnel in Switzerland ==
+
 
The Munt La Schera tunnel connects Switzerland to Livigno and Bormio. It is open 24/7 throughout the year and provides an ideal route in winter to travelers.
+
'''Yes, for all vehicles on motorways.''' Switzerland requires a mandatory vignette for ALL vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes, including cars, motorcycles, caravans, and trailers using any motorway or expressway.
 +
 
 +
'''Key Requirements:'''
 +
* '''Passenger cars:''' CHF 40 annual vignette mandatory
 +
* '''Motorcycles:''' CHF 40 annual vignette required
 +
* '''Trailers/caravans:''' Separate CHF 40 vignette needed
 +
* '''Trucks over 3.5t:''' Distance-based LSVA tolls apply
 +
* '''No short-term options:''' Only annual vignettes available (14-month validity)
 +
 
 +
'''Important:''' Unlike many countries, Switzerland offers NO daily, weekly, or monthly vignettes - only the annual option.
 +
 
 +
== Switzerland Toll Costs: Current Rates ==
 +
 
 +
=== 2025 Vignette Rates (All Vehicles Under 3.5t) ===
 +
 
 +
<table class="toll-table">
 +
<tr>
 +
<th>Vehicle Type</th>
 +
<th>Annual Cost</th>
 +
<th>Validity Period</th>
 +
<th>Notes</th>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Passenger Cars</td>
 +
<td>CHF 40 (€42)</td>
 +
<td>Dec 1, 2024 - Jan 31, 2026</td>
 +
<td>Mandatory for all motorways</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Motorcycles</td>
 +
<td>CHF 40 (€42)</td>
 +
<td>Dec 1, 2024 - Jan 31, 2026</td>
 +
<td>No exemptions</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Trailers/Caravans</td>
 +
<td>CHF 40 (€42)</td>
 +
<td>Dec 1, 2024 - Jan 31, 2026</td>
 +
<td>Separate vignette required</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Light Commercial</td>
 +
<td>CHF 40 (€42)</td>
 +
<td>Dec 1, 2024 - Jan 31, 2026</td>
 +
<td>Up to 3.5t gross weight</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
=== Heavy Vehicle Tolls (Over 3.5t) ===
 +
 
 +
<table class="toll-table">
 +
<tr>
 +
<th>Vehicle Category</th>
 +
<th>Toll System</th>
 +
<th>Rate Structure</th>
 +
<th>Payment Method</th>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Trucks (Goods Transport)</td>
 +
<td>LSVA - Distance-based</td>
 +
<td>Based on weight, emission class, km</td>
 +
<td>OBU device or border terminal</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Heavy Motorhomes</td>
 +
<td>PSVA - Flat rate</td>
 +
<td>Annual lump sum</td>
 +
<td>Border payment or online</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Buses/Coaches</td>
 +
<td>PSVA - Flat rate</td>
 +
<td>Annual lump sum</td>
 +
<td>Border payment or online</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
=== Additional Tunnel Tolls (Not Covered by Vignette) ===
 +
 
 +
<table class="toll-table">
 +
<tr>
 +
<th>Tunnel</th>
 +
<th>Route</th>
 +
<th>Car Toll (One-way)</th>
 +
<th>Return Discount</th>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Great St. Bernard</td>
 +
<td>Switzerland - Italy</td>
 +
<td>CHF 30-50</td>
 +
<td>Available</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Munt la Schera</td>
 +
<td>Switzerland - Livigno (Italy)</td>
 +
<td>CHF 15-20</td>
 +
<td>Round trip CHF 35</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
== How to Pay Switzerland Tolls ==
 +
 
 +
=== Vignette Purchase Options ===
 +
* '''Online (e-vignette):''' [https://www.e-vignette.ch e-vignette.ch] - immediate validity
 +
* '''Border crossings:''' Available at all entry points
 +
* '''Petrol stations:''' Throughout Switzerland and neighboring countries
 +
* '''Post offices:''' Swiss Post locations
 +
* '''Automobile clubs:''' TCS and other automotive associations
 +
 
 +
=== Vignette Types Available ===
 +
* '''Traditional sticker:''' Affixed to windshield, vehicle-specific
 +
* '''Digital e-vignette:''' Linked to license plate number, more flexible
 +
* '''Same price:''' Both versions cost CHF 40
 +
* '''Same validity:''' December 1, 2024 to January 31, 2026
 +
 
 +
== Recent Changes (2025) ==
 +
 
 +
* '''E-vignette expansion:''' Digital option now widely adopted since 2023
 +
* '''Price stability:''' CHF 40 rate maintained (unchanged since 1995)
 +
* '''Enhanced enforcement:''' Automated camera systems expanded
 +
* '''Border digitalization:''' Improved electronic payment processing
 +
* '''Heavy vehicle updates:''' LSVA rates adjusted for emission standards
 +
 
 +
== Vehicle Classifications & Requirements ==
 +
 
 +
=== Vignette Required (Up to 3.5t) ===
 +
* '''All passenger cars:''' Regardless of size or fuel type
 +
* '''Motorcycles and scooters:''' No exceptions
 +
* '''Light commercial vehicles:''' Delivery vans, pickup trucks
 +
* '''Recreational vehicles:''' Caravans, motorhomes under 3.5t
 +
* '''Trailers:''' Separate vignette required for each trailer
 +
 
 +
=== LSVA/PSVA Required (Over 3.5t) ===
 +
* '''Freight trucks:''' Distance-based LSVA tolls
 +
* '''Heavy motorhomes:''' Annual PSVA flat rate
 +
* '''Buses and coaches:''' Annual PSVA system
 +
* '''Agricultural vehicles:''' Some exemptions apply
 +
 
 +
== Switzerland vs. Neighboring Countries ==
 +
 
 +
<table class="toll-table">
 +
<tr>
 +
<th>Country</th>
 +
<th>System Type</th>
 +
<th>Car Vignette Cost</th>
 +
<th>Validity Options</th>
 +
<th>Special Features</th>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Switzerland</td>
 +
<td>Annual vignette</td>
 +
<td>CHF 40 (€42)</td>
 +
<td>Annual only</td>
 +
<td>14-month validity period</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Austria</td>
 +
<td>Vignette system</td>
 +
<td>€96.40</td>
 +
<td>10-day, 2-month, annual</td>
 +
<td>More expensive, flexible periods</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Germany</td>
 +
<td>No car tolls</td>
 +
<td>Free</td>
 +
<td>N/A</td>
 +
<td>Only truck tolls (LKW-Maut)</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>France</td>
 +
<td>Distance-based tolls</td>
 +
<td>€50-100+ per journey</td>
 +
<td>Pay per use</td>
 +
<td>Expensive long-distance travel</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Italy</td>
 +
<td>Distance-based tolls</td>
 +
<td>€30-80+ per journey</td>
 +
<td>Pay per use</td>
 +
<td>Telepass electronic system</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
== Planning Your Switzerland Journey ==
 +
 
 +
=== Cost Considerations ===
 +
* '''Basic motorway access:''' CHF 40 for entire year
 +
* '''Additional tunnel fees:''' CHF 15-50 for alpine crossings
 +
* '''Trailer costs:''' Extra CHF 40 if towing caravan
 +
* '''No daily options:''' Must buy full annual vignette even for short visits
 +
 
 +
=== Travel Tips ===
 +
* '''Buy before arrival:''' E-vignette available online with immediate validity
 +
* '''Windshield placement:''' Sticker must be properly affixed and visible
 +
* '''License plate accuracy:''' Ensure correct registration for e-vignettes
 +
* '''Multi-vehicle needs:''' Each vehicle requires separate vignette
 +
* '''Cross-border planning:''' Factor in neighboring countries' different toll systems
 +
 
 +
== Frequently Asked Questions ==
 +
 
 +
=== Can I buy a vignette for just a few days? ===
 +
No, Switzerland only offers annual vignettes valid for 14 months. There are no daily, weekly, or monthly options available.
 +
 
 +
=== Do I need separate vignettes for my car and trailer? ===
 +
Yes, trailers and caravans require their own CHF 40 vignette, regardless of the towing vehicle's vignette status.
 +
 
 +
=== What's the difference between sticker and e-vignette? ===
 +
Both cost CHF 40 and have the same validity. Stickers are vehicle-specific, while e-vignettes are linked to license plates and offer more flexibility.
  
<html> <table>
+
=== Can I use my rental car's existing vignette? ===
  <caption>Munt la Schera Tunnel Toll rates 2021</caption>
+
Swiss rental cars typically include valid vignettes. However, always verify with the rental company to avoid CHF 200 fines.
  <tr>
 
      <th>Vehicle</th>
 
      <th>Rates (in CHF)</th>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Motorcycle</td>
 
    <td>CHF13.00</td>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Passenger and delivery car</td>
 
    <td>CHF17.00</td>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Caravan/Camper</td>
 
    <td>CHF25.00</td>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Autobus</td>
 
    <td>CHF63.00</td>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Truck (up to 18 tonnes)</td>
 
    <td>CHF38.00</td>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Truck (over 18 tonnes)</td>
 
    <td>CHF44.00</td>
 
  </tr>
 
</table></html>
 
</div>
 
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
=== Are there any toll-free routes through Switzerland? ===
== Swiss Motorway Vignette Rates in 2021 ==
+
You can avoid motorways entirely, but this significantly increases travel time. All motorways and expressways require vignettes.
  
<html> <table>
+
=== What happens if I'm caught without a vignette? ===
  <caption>Validity and rates of motorway vignette in Switzerland, 2021</caption>
+
Immediate CHF 200 fine plus mandatory CHF 40 vignette purchase. Total penalty: CHF 240.
  <tr>
 
      <th>Validity</th>
 
      <th>cars, trailers for cars</th>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>12 months</td>
 
    <td>CHF40.00</td>
 
  </tr>
 
</table></html>
 
You can buy vignette<ref name='vignette'></ref> on Switzerland Travel Centre website<ref>[https://shop.switzerlandtravelcentre.com/?affiliateId=23#/en/product/motorwaySticker Buy Vignette for Switzerland]</ref>
 
</div>
 
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
=== Do the tunnel tolls accept foreign credit cards? ===
== Switzerland Truck Tolls 2021 ==
+
Yes, Great St. Bernard and Munt la Schera tunnels accept cash (CHF/EUR), credit cards, and some fuel cards.
The performance-related heavy vehicle charge is a federal tax levied based on the vehicle’s total weight, emission level<ref name='euro-emission'>[https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/european-emission_standards What are Emission levels]</ref>, and the kilometers driven on the highways. HGV, trucks, buses fall under this category.
 
<html> <table>
 
  <caption>HGV Rates in Switzerland 2021</caption>
 
  <tr>
 
      <th>Euro category</th>
 
      <th>Rate (CHF/km)</th>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Euro 3, 2, 1 and 0</td>
 
    <td>CHF3.10</td>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Euro 4 and 5 (EEV)</td>
 
    <td>CHF2.69</td>
 
  </tr>
 
  <tr>
 
    <td>Euro 6</td>
 
    <td>CHF2.28</td>
 
  </tr>
 
</table></html>
 
You can use [https://tollguru.com/toll-vignette-calculator-switzerland Truck Toll Calculator to calculate distance-based tolls].<br>
 
<html>
 
<div style="text-align: center;">
 
<a href="https://tollguru.com/toll-vignette-calculator-switzerland"><button type="button" class="custom-button button-orange">Truck Toll Calculator</button></a>
 
</div>
 
</html>
 
  
</div>
+
== Special Road Sections & Additional Costs ==
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
=== Toll Tunnels (Extra Charges) ===
== Where can I buy a toll sticker in Switzerland ==
+
* '''Great St. Bernard Tunnel:''' Major alpine crossing to Italy, variable rates by vehicle type
You can purchase your vignette<ref name='vignette'></ref> online at Switzerland Travel Centre<ref>[https://shop.switzerlandtravelcentre.com/?affiliateId=23#/en/product/motorwaySticker Switzerland Travel Centre]</ref>. Or you can buy a vignette at the border or at any gas station nearby. If you are towing a trailer or a caravan, you will need to purchase an extra vignette.
+
* '''Munt la Schera Tunnel:''' Single-lane tunnel to Livigno, time-controlled alternating traffic
 +
* '''Payment options:''' Cash, cards, or advance online booking available
  
</div>
+
=== Car Transport Services (Optional) ===
 +
* '''Lötschberg Car Train:''' Kandersteg-Goppenstein, approximately CHF 27
 +
* '''Furka Car Train:''' Realp-Oberwald, seasonal operation
 +
* '''Vereina Tunnel:''' Engadin-Prättigau shortcut, approximately CHF 35-50
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
=== Roads Covered by Vignette ===
 +
* '''Green highway signs:''' All roads marked with green signs and white numbers
 +
* '''A-numbered roads:''' A1, A2, A3, etc. (national motorways)
 +
* '''1st and 2nd class roads:''' Full national highway network
 +
* '''Border connections:''' All international motorway links
  
== Do I need to pay toll in Switzerland ==
+
== Enforcement & Penalties ==
Yes, On all national class 1 and 2 roads, vignettes are mandatory to pay tolls. Only a one-year vignette is available, valid from December 1st of the previous year to January 31st of the following year (14 months). The Grand St. Bernard Tunnel and the Munt la Schera Tunnel are not included in the vignette price.
 
  
</div>
+
=== Monitoring Systems ===
 +
* '''Automated cameras:''' License plate recognition at entry/exit points
 +
* '''Police patrols:''' Regular roadside checks on motorways
 +
* '''Border controls:''' Systematic vignette verification
 +
* '''Random inspections:''' Mobile enforcement teams
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
=== Penalty Structure ===
== Can I drive in Switzerland without a vignette ==
+
* '''Missing vignette:''' CHF 200 fine + CHF 40 vignette purchase
* No, if you are using a Swiss Motorway, even if it's only for a short stretch, you need to have a vignette. You can avoid using motorways, but it will be time-consuming.
+
* '''Improper sticker placement:''' CHF 200 fine
* If you are a tourist, you can use swiss rental cars that have a vignette, so you don't need to buy one.
+
* '''Expired vignette:''' CHF 200 fine + new vignette required
* You need to buy a motorway vignette for motorcycles as well.
+
* '''Heavy vehicle violations:''' Higher fines and possible vehicle detention
  
</div>
+
== Contact Information ==
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
=== Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) ===
== Where can I buy a Swiss highway vignette ==
+
* '''Vignette sales:''' [https://www.e-vignette.ch e-vignette.ch]
You can purchase the Swiss highway vignette online. It will help you cross the border using the fast lane, without waiting in a long line of people buying vignettes at the border. This will save you time and effort.  
+
* '''General information:''' [https://www.bazg.admin.ch bazg.admin.ch]
Other purchasing options of vignettes are at the border (pick the lane for cars without a vignette) and at gas stations near the border in the surrounding countries.
+
* '''Emergency services:''' 112 (European emergency number)
 +
* '''Traffic information:''' 163 (road conditions and traffic)
  
</div>
+
=== Tourist Support ===
 +
* '''Switzerland Tourism:''' [https://www.myswitzerland.com myswitzerland.com]
 +
* '''TCS (Touring Club):''' 24/7 roadside assistance
 +
* '''Border assistance:''' Available at all major crossings
  
<div class="shadowCard">
+
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 30px 0;">
== How do I avoid toll roads in Switzerland ==
+
[https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-switzerland Calculate Your Switzerland Travel Costs]
You can avoid major highways by avoiding highways with vignette signs at the entry of the highway. Use [https://tollguru.com/toll-vignette-calculator-switzerland TollGuru Toll Calculator to find cheapest and alternative routes in Switzerland].
 
 
</div>
 
</div>
  
{{TollGuruEuropeCTA}}
 
{{WhichEuropeanCountriesHaveMotorwayTolls}}
 
<div class="shadowCard">
 
== References ==
 
<references />
 
 
</div>
 
</div>

Latest revision as of 21:42, 1 July 2025

Click on the map to open toll wiki for a country/state

Switzerland Toll Roads 2025: Complete Guide

System: Annual vignette for cars, distance-based LSVA for trucks
Operator: Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS)
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
Coverage: All 1st and 2nd class national roads (motorways)
Technology: Sticker vignette or electronic e-vignette

Do I Need a Vignette for Switzerland? 2025 Update

Yes, for all vehicles on motorways. Switzerland requires a mandatory vignette for ALL vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes, including cars, motorcycles, caravans, and trailers using any motorway or expressway.

Key Requirements:

  • Passenger cars: CHF 40 annual vignette mandatory
  • Motorcycles: CHF 40 annual vignette required
  • Trailers/caravans: Separate CHF 40 vignette needed
  • Trucks over 3.5t: Distance-based LSVA tolls apply
  • No short-term options: Only annual vignettes available (14-month validity)

Important: Unlike many countries, Switzerland offers NO daily, weekly, or monthly vignettes - only the annual option.

Switzerland Toll Costs: Current Rates

2025 Vignette Rates (All Vehicles Under 3.5t)

Vehicle Type Annual Cost Validity Period Notes
Passenger Cars CHF 40 (€42) Dec 1, 2024 - Jan 31, 2026 Mandatory for all motorways
Motorcycles CHF 40 (€42) Dec 1, 2024 - Jan 31, 2026 No exemptions
Trailers/Caravans CHF 40 (€42) Dec 1, 2024 - Jan 31, 2026 Separate vignette required
Light Commercial CHF 40 (€42) Dec 1, 2024 - Jan 31, 2026 Up to 3.5t gross weight

Heavy Vehicle Tolls (Over 3.5t)

Vehicle Category Toll System Rate Structure Payment Method
Trucks (Goods Transport) LSVA - Distance-based Based on weight, emission class, km OBU device or border terminal
Heavy Motorhomes PSVA - Flat rate Annual lump sum Border payment or online
Buses/Coaches PSVA - Flat rate Annual lump sum Border payment or online

Additional Tunnel Tolls (Not Covered by Vignette)

Tunnel Route Car Toll (One-way) Return Discount
Great St. Bernard Switzerland - Italy CHF 30-50 Available
Munt la Schera Switzerland - Livigno (Italy) CHF 15-20 Round trip CHF 35

How to Pay Switzerland Tolls

Vignette Purchase Options

  • Online (e-vignette): e-vignette.ch - immediate validity
  • Border crossings: Available at all entry points
  • Petrol stations: Throughout Switzerland and neighboring countries
  • Post offices: Swiss Post locations
  • Automobile clubs: TCS and other automotive associations

Vignette Types Available

  • Traditional sticker: Affixed to windshield, vehicle-specific
  • Digital e-vignette: Linked to license plate number, more flexible
  • Same price: Both versions cost CHF 40
  • Same validity: December 1, 2024 to January 31, 2026

Recent Changes (2025)

  • E-vignette expansion: Digital option now widely adopted since 2023
  • Price stability: CHF 40 rate maintained (unchanged since 1995)
  • Enhanced enforcement: Automated camera systems expanded
  • Border digitalization: Improved electronic payment processing
  • Heavy vehicle updates: LSVA rates adjusted for emission standards

Vehicle Classifications & Requirements

Vignette Required (Up to 3.5t)

  • All passenger cars: Regardless of size or fuel type
  • Motorcycles and scooters: No exceptions
  • Light commercial vehicles: Delivery vans, pickup trucks
  • Recreational vehicles: Caravans, motorhomes under 3.5t
  • Trailers: Separate vignette required for each trailer

LSVA/PSVA Required (Over 3.5t)

  • Freight trucks: Distance-based LSVA tolls
  • Heavy motorhomes: Annual PSVA flat rate
  • Buses and coaches: Annual PSVA system
  • Agricultural vehicles: Some exemptions apply

Switzerland vs. Neighboring Countries

Country System Type Car Vignette Cost Validity Options Special Features
Switzerland Annual vignette CHF 40 (€42) Annual only 14-month validity period
Austria Vignette system €96.40 10-day, 2-month, annual More expensive, flexible periods
Germany No car tolls Free N/A Only truck tolls (LKW-Maut)
France Distance-based tolls €50-100+ per journey Pay per use Expensive long-distance travel
Italy Distance-based tolls €30-80+ per journey Pay per use Telepass electronic system

Planning Your Switzerland Journey

Cost Considerations

  • Basic motorway access: CHF 40 for entire year
  • Additional tunnel fees: CHF 15-50 for alpine crossings
  • Trailer costs: Extra CHF 40 if towing caravan
  • No daily options: Must buy full annual vignette even for short visits

Travel Tips

  • Buy before arrival: E-vignette available online with immediate validity
  • Windshield placement: Sticker must be properly affixed and visible
  • License plate accuracy: Ensure correct registration for e-vignettes
  • Multi-vehicle needs: Each vehicle requires separate vignette
  • Cross-border planning: Factor in neighboring countries' different toll systems

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a vignette for just a few days?

No, Switzerland only offers annual vignettes valid for 14 months. There are no daily, weekly, or monthly options available.

Do I need separate vignettes for my car and trailer?

Yes, trailers and caravans require their own CHF 40 vignette, regardless of the towing vehicle's vignette status.

What's the difference between sticker and e-vignette?

Both cost CHF 40 and have the same validity. Stickers are vehicle-specific, while e-vignettes are linked to license plates and offer more flexibility.

Can I use my rental car's existing vignette?

Swiss rental cars typically include valid vignettes. However, always verify with the rental company to avoid CHF 200 fines.

Are there any toll-free routes through Switzerland?

You can avoid motorways entirely, but this significantly increases travel time. All motorways and expressways require vignettes.

What happens if I'm caught without a vignette?

Immediate CHF 200 fine plus mandatory CHF 40 vignette purchase. Total penalty: CHF 240.

Do the tunnel tolls accept foreign credit cards?

Yes, Great St. Bernard and Munt la Schera tunnels accept cash (CHF/EUR), credit cards, and some fuel cards.

Special Road Sections & Additional Costs

Toll Tunnels (Extra Charges)

  • Great St. Bernard Tunnel: Major alpine crossing to Italy, variable rates by vehicle type
  • Munt la Schera Tunnel: Single-lane tunnel to Livigno, time-controlled alternating traffic
  • Payment options: Cash, cards, or advance online booking available

Car Transport Services (Optional)

  • Lötschberg Car Train: Kandersteg-Goppenstein, approximately CHF 27
  • Furka Car Train: Realp-Oberwald, seasonal operation
  • Vereina Tunnel: Engadin-Prättigau shortcut, approximately CHF 35-50

Roads Covered by Vignette

  • Green highway signs: All roads marked with green signs and white numbers
  • A-numbered roads: A1, A2, A3, etc. (national motorways)
  • 1st and 2nd class roads: Full national highway network
  • Border connections: All international motorway links

Enforcement & Penalties

Monitoring Systems

  • Automated cameras: License plate recognition at entry/exit points
  • Police patrols: Regular roadside checks on motorways
  • Border controls: Systematic vignette verification
  • Random inspections: Mobile enforcement teams

Penalty Structure

  • Missing vignette: CHF 200 fine + CHF 40 vignette purchase
  • Improper sticker placement: CHF 200 fine
  • Expired vignette: CHF 200 fine + new vignette required
  • Heavy vehicle violations: Higher fines and possible vehicle detention

Contact Information

Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS)

  • Vignette sales: e-vignette.ch
  • General information: bazg.admin.ch
  • Emergency services: 112 (European emergency number)
  • Traffic information: 163 (road conditions and traffic)

Tourist Support

  • Switzerland Tourism: myswitzerland.com
  • TCS (Touring Club): 24/7 roadside assistance
  • Border assistance: Available at all major crossings
Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies.