In Switzerland road users must purchase a vignette in order to legally drive on the motorway network. This is a large sticker, which needs to be displayed on the left hand edge or behind the inside rear view mirror of the windscreen of the car. It is possible to buy a vignette at most border crossings in addition to petrol stations and post offices. There is also the option of buying online or by phone. The price of a vignette is currently CHF40.
Roads subject to the compulsory vignette:
A vignette is compulsory and must be displayed on all national class I and class 2 roads. These roads are also referred to as the Swiss national motorways. The motorway vignette is needed for cars, trailers and caravans.
How long is the vignette valid for?
There is only the option of buying the 1-year vignette. This is valid from 1 December until the 31st January of the following year. You will need to buy this even if you are only visiting Switzerland on a short trip.
Additional toll roads:
The vignette does not cover you for driving through tunnels. An additional toll must be paid when driving through the Grand St. Bernhard Tunnel and Munt la Schera.
Hire cars:
Swiss registered hire cars will already have a vignette, however if you are hiring a car from outside of Switzerland it is the driver’s responsibility to purchase and display a vignette. This needs to be done immediately after purchase in order to avoid on the spot cash fines of at least 200CHF.
Further Reading on Driving in Switzerland;