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World Driving Permit

🇨🇭 Do you need an IDP to drive in Switzerland?

Depends on your licence· the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 1 May 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires
Driving side
Right-hand
Minimum driving age
18+ years

Short answer

It depends on the licence you hold — Switzerland accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required.

Driving in Switzerland: the rule explained

Switzerland accepts foreign licenses for 12 months. Licenses not in a Swiss national language or English may need an IDP or translation.

Exemption: EU/EEA licenses are valid in Switzerland without an IDP.

Renting a car in Switzerland

Standard EU-style rental requirements; non-Latin-script licenses need an IDP.

What to carry when driving in Switzerland

  • Original driving license (physical card)
  • Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
  • Translation companion or certified translation of your license
  • Proof of insurance covering the destination
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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Switzerland: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Switzerland?
It depends on the licence you hold — Switzerland accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Switzerland accepts foreign licenses for 12 months. Licenses not in a Swiss national language or English may need an IDP or translation.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Switzerland?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Switzerland read your licence, but where Switzerland requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Switzerland?
Standard EU-style rental requirements; non-Latin-script licenses need an IDP.
Which IDP convention does Switzerland use?
Switzerland recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid in Switzerland?
Because Switzerland follows the 1968 Vienna Convention, an IDP is valid for up to three years, or until your national licence expires — whichever comes first. The permit is only valid alongside your original national licence, and it cannot be renewed — you apply for a new one from your home country's authorised issuer when it lapses.
What is the minimum age to drive in Switzerland?
Visitors generally need to be at least 18 to drive in Switzerland; car-rental companies often set a higher minimum age and add a young-driver surcharge. Always confirm the age terms with your specific rental provider.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? How to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Driving to Switzerland from your country

In-depth driving guides

Real-world driving and IDP guides for popular trips:

Requirements for other countries