Drivers license

From Swisswiki

Return to the Expats-in-Zurich FAQ

Getting your Driver's License

• Go to the following website online http://www.stva.zh.ch/internet/ds/stva/de/home.html
• Click on "Ausweise (Führer und Fahrzeugausweise)"
• Then on "Umschreibung eines ausländischen Führerausweises" and you will find a downloadable (in German) sheet on how to get your Swiss license.
• You can also call the Strassenverkehrsamt at 044 468 3111.
• Your employer's HR person may also be of help.

Licensed Drivers from the US

If you are coming from the US with an American License you have one year (although they don't really abide by this time limit very strictly) to trade in for your Swiss License.

• You must contact the Strassenverkehrsamt via phone or online
• Fill in the necessary document
• Send in your American License with the completed for (keep a copy for yourself) with eye test results (from within the last 2 years)

You will receive your Swiss License in about 2 weeks with your American one back as well.

Licensed Drivers from the EFTA & EU Countries

Holders of licenses of many other "favoured" countries (EFTA and EU members states plus a few others) can also get a Swiss license without taking a test or a course, but your old license will not be returned to you. Swiss driver's licenses are valid for the rest of your life!! New EU driving licenses are only valid for 10 years (older ones had an unlimited validity).