If you plan to stay in Switzerland for over a year, you must exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Swiss one. Most holders of legitimation cards (from missions and international organizations) are exempt from this process (more information can be found on the Swiss Mission’s website).
For nationals of countries listed here, you can exchange your (non-professional) license without a test. Nationals of other countries must take a practical driving test, which can only be attempted once. If you fail, you must complete the entire process of obtaining a Swiss driver’s license.
To exchange your license, visit the Cantonal Vehicles Office with your documents (more details on the process and a list of required documents are available on the official website).
If you do not exchange your license within 12 months of your arrival in Switzerland, you will no longer be able to drive legally in Switzerland.
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