Switzerland updates driving regulations in 2026 with variable motorway speed limits on key sections, new tunnel safety requirements, updated e-bike regulations, continued Via Sicura road safety program reforms, and the introduction of a digital motorway vignette.
Speed limits
Before
120 km/h fixed limitFixed 120 km/h speed limit on all motorways regardless of conditions
After (2026)
Variable speed limits on key sectionsDynamic speed management with variable speed limit signs on major motorway sections around Zurich, Bern, and Basel; limits adjust between 80-120 km/h based on traffic density and weather
Safety rules
Before
Standard tunnel rulesBasic tunnel driving rules: headlights on, no overtaking, maintain distance
After (2026)
Stricter tunnel protocolsMandatory minimum 150m following distance in tunnels over 1km; new emergency SOS stations every 250m; real-time air quality monitoring triggers automatic speed reductions
Vehicle equipment
Before
Two categories: slow and fastSlow e-bikes (25 km/h) treated as bicycles; fast e-bikes (45 km/h) required license plate and insurance
After (2026)
Stricter fast e-bike rulesFast e-bikes (45 km/h) require category M license, yellow license plate, mandatory helmet, mirrors, and daytime running lights; banned from cycle paths unless signed otherwise
Penalties & fines
Before
Mandatory minimum 1-year prisonExcessive speeding (raserdelikt) carried mandatory minimum 1-year prison sentence regardless of circumstances
After (2026)
Judicial discretion restoredJudges can consider individual circumstances for excessive speeding; prison sentences remain possible but not automatically mandatory; vehicle confiscation still applies
Vehicle equipment
Before
Physical sticker onlyAnnual motorway vignette available only as windshield sticker for CHF 40
After (2026)
Digital or physical optionAnnual motorway vignette available as digital e-vignette linked to license plate or traditional windshield sticker; both cost CHF 40; purchasable online
The general limit remains 120 km/h, but variable speed limit signs are being installed on major sections around Zurich, Bern, and Basel. These electronic signs display legally binding limits between 80-120 km/h that change based on traffic density and weather conditions. Always follow the displayed limit.
For tunnels over 1km, you must now maintain at least 150m following distance. New SOS stations are installed every 250m, and real-time air quality monitoring can automatically reduce speed limits. Switzerland has over 220 road tunnels, so these rules affect many journeys.
It depends on the type. Slow e-bikes (up to 25 km/h assistance) are treated as bicycles with no license needed. Fast e-bikes (S-Pedelecs, up to 45 km/h) require a category M license, yellow license plate, mandatory helmet, mirrors, and daytime running lights. Fast e-bikes are banned from cycle paths unless signs specifically allow them.
Yes. From August 2026, you can purchase a digital e-vignette linked to your license plate number online, in addition to the traditional windshield sticker. Both cost CHF 40 per year. The digital option is especially convenient for foreign drivers who can purchase it before entering Switzerland.
All rule changes are sourced from official government transport agencies and legal publications. AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Rules may be subject to change before their effective dates.
Information last verified: 1 February 2026Everything you need to pass on your first attempt
