Digital vignette for Switzerland – everything you need to know

The digital vignette has played a significant role in modern transport infrastructure and road management in Switzerland. As an innovative solution for collecting motorway tolls, it offers not only a convenient but also an environmentally friendly alternative to the traditional sticker. With the digitalization of vignette purchasing and management, it is easier than ever for drivers to comply with toll regulations without having to worry about physical stickers or their affixing. This adaptation to technological developments not only reflects Switzerland's progressive attitude but also contributes to increased efficiency in road traffic. With us, you can purchase the digital vignette for Switzerland online and receive all the important information on this comprehensive topic.

The most important things in brief:

• You can conveniently purchase the digital vignette for Switzerland in our shop.
• Switzerland currently only offers the 1-year vignette.
• The one-year vignette is valid for 14 months, beginning on December 1 of the previous year and ending on January 31 of the following year.

Introduction to the vignette requirement

In Switzerland, a vignette is required to use the motorways. This applies to vehicles up to 3.5 tons, including cars, motorcycles, and motorhomes. Trailers under this weight also require a separate vignette, while heavier vehicles are subject to the heavy goods vehicle tax.

The vignette requirement was introduced in 1985 to ensure the financing and maintenance of Switzerland's road infrastructure. This measure is intended to ensure that the roads remain in good condition both financially and qualitatively.

Types of vignettes and how to purchase them

Adhesive vignette

Traditionally, the adhesive vignette for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes is affixed to the windshield or to a designated location on motorcycles.

Digital vignette

Since August 1, 2023, you can also purchase the vignette digitally, making the process more convenient. You can purchase it conveniently from home or on the go using your smartphone or computer. We offer various digital vignettes for Switzerland and other countries in our shop.

Costs and validity period

You can purchase the annual vignette for Switzerland conveniently and quickly online in our shop for just €49.90. It is valid from December 1 of the previous year until January 31 of the following year, allowing a total usage period of up to 14 months. This allows for uncomplicated and convenient use of the motorways and expressways in Switzerland without having to worry about the vignette again and again.

Different vehicle types and their vignette requirements

In Switzerland, a distinction is made between individual vehicles and their total weight when it comes to the vignette requirement.

Car

Cars weighing up to 3.5 tons require a standard digital vignette, which you can conveniently purchase online from us. Vehicles weighing more than this are subject to the heavy goods vehicle tax.

Motorcycles

Motorcycles are also required to have a vignette, although the adhesive vignette must be affixed to a fixed, non-removable location. For this reason, more and more motorcyclists are also opting for the digital vignette, which they conveniently purchase in our shop.

Motorhomes

Motorhomes must also purchase the vignette unless the permissible total weight exceeds 3.5 tonnes, in which case the heavy goods vehicle tax applies.

TRUCK

Trucks with a permissible total weight of less than 3.5 tons require a vignette. Heavier trucks are exempt from the vignette requirement, but must pay the heavy goods vehicle tax.

Vignette requirement for travelers in Germany

For trips from Germany to Switzerland, the vignette is essential on many motorways and highways, even in popular tourist cities like Zurich, Bern, or Geneva. So, if you're planning a vacation in Switzerland, are in the country for business, or are just passing through on the motorways, you'll need to get the vignette in advance.

Validity of the vignette

The digital vignette is valid nationwide and applies throughout Switzerland. However, some tunnels require additional tolls. We therefore recommend checking the exact route you will be taking in advance to see if an additional toll fee is required.

Registration and binding to the license plate

After you purchase the digital vignette, it will be linked to your vehicle's license plate number. This must be registered during the purchase process. However, a one-time license plate change is also possible within the same vehicle owner.

Start and verification of validity

The digital vignette is valid from the moment you receive the registration confirmation, which is usually available within a few minutes. To ensure your vignette is active, you can test its validity free of charge.

Penalties and consequences for missing a vignette

Driving on roads requiring a vignette without a valid vignette can result in a fine of up to 200 Swiss francs. Checks are carried out both at the border and by the police within the country. Digital vignettes are also checked by the cameras installed, which record the vehicle's license plate number.

Questions and answers about the digital toll product for Switzerland

Is there a vignette requirement in Switzerland?

Yes, to use Swiss roads safely, vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tons require a vignette. You currently have the choice between the adhesive vignette and the digital vignette, which you can order online in our shop.

Can you drive to Switzerland without a vignette?

Even drivers who are only passing through the country need a vignette and are not exempt from the vignette requirement.

Which vignettes are available for Switzerland?

While some countries that also require a vignette offer different models with different validity periods, Switzerland only offers the 1-year vignette.

How long is the 1-year vignette valid for Switzerland?

The annual vignette for Switzerland is valid for 14 months. It begins on December 1 of the previous year and ends on January 31 of the following year. This ensures maximum convenience in the future.

Is there a vignette requirement for trailers?

An additional vignette is required for trailers and caravans with a maximum permissible weight of up to 3.5 tons. Trailers over 3.5 tons pay the toll via a heavy goods vehicle charge.