Drive Switzerland the Right Way
Your stress-free road to Swiss highways starts here.
- • Understand the mandatory Swiss motorway vignette in minutes.
- • Avoid CHF 200+ fines & vehicle impoundment.
- • Get a free, printable step-by-step checklist.
Why Every Vehicle Needs a Vignette
A vignette is a mandatory CHF 40 sticker that gives you unlimited access to Swiss motorways for the entire calendar year. Skipping it can derail your holiday more quickly than a broken clutch.
- Covers all national motorways until 31 Dec.
- Funds tunnel safety & winter maintenance.
- Enforced by cameras and mobile patrols.
“The vignette is the cost-effective way to keep Swiss roads safe and congestion-free.” — Federal Roads Office (FEDRO)
Vignettes sold yearly
On-the-spot fine
Travellers Speak
“The printable checklist saved us from a last-minute scramble at the border. Five minutes well spent.”
“Clear, concise and in perfect English—much easier than the official leaflet.”
“We avoided a CHF 240 fine near St. Gallen thanks to this guide. Highly recommend for campers.”
“Love the step-by-step photos for applying the sticker—no bubbles and no stress.”
“I drive through Switzerland monthly for work. This site keeps all the rules at my fingertips.”
Where to Buy Your Vignette
Border Crossing Kiosks
Available 24/7 at major entry points such as Chiasso, Basel, and St. Margrethen. Pay in CHF, EUR, or card; queues move quickly.
Swiss Post Offices
Look for the yellow Swiss Post logo. Simply ask for “Autobahn-vignette” at the counter. Staff can affix it for you on request.
Gas Stations & Rest Stops
Most major brands (Shell, AVIA, BP) keep the vignette beside the cash desk. Night windows also sell them after hours.
Supermarkets (Coop, Migros)
From December onward, pick up a vignette at any large supermarket. A convenient option if you are already shopping for snacks.
How to Apply the Vignette Correctly
1. Clean Windscreen
Wipe the inside top-centre area to remove dust and moisture.
2. Peel & Place
Align from the top edge and press downward to avoid bubbles.
3. Press Firmly
Apply even pressure so the hologram is fully attached.
4. Dispose Old Sticker
Remove the expired vignette to keep visibility clear and stay legal.
Penalties & Costs
| Item | Price (CHF) |
|---|---|
| Vignette Sticker | 40 |
| On-the-spot Fine | 200 |
| New Vignette After Fine | 40 |
| Vehicle Impound (worst-case) | 400+ |
Case Study: Tourist from Italy fined CHF 240
Giovanni drove through Chiasso without a vignette and was stopped 3 km later. Two minutes at the kiosk could have saved him both the fine and the lost holiday time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a vignette for motorcycles?
Yes, every motor vehicle under 3.5 t requires its own vignette, including motorcycles.
Can I transfer the vignette to another car?
No. Once affixed, a vignette is valid only for that vehicle’s windscreen.
Is there a digital vignette?
The Swiss government currently issues only physical stickers. Digital alternatives are being evaluated.
What about trailers?
Trailers over 0.75 t require an additional vignette, which is affixed to the trailer itself.
Get in Touch
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Lugano Vignette Info Services
Via Zurigo 15
6900 Lugano, Switzerland
Tel: +41 91 123 45 67
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00 CET
