Side-by-side comparison

Switzerland vs Germany driving rules

Compare the main cross-border differences before driving between Switzerland and Germany.

Rule Switzerland Germany
Built-up areas50 km/h50 km/h
Outside built-up areas80 km/h100 km/h
Motorways / expressways100 / 120 km/h130 km/h
Standard drivers0.5 mg/ml0.5 mg/ml
Novice drivers0.1 mg/ml0.0 mg/ml
Professional drivers0.1 mg/ml0.0 mg/ml
Daytime lightsMandatory all dayNot stated in the standardized source
Winter tyres / equipmentNot stated in the standardized sourceMandatory
Mandatory equipmentwarning trianglefirst-aid kit, warning triangle, reflective vest
Low-emission zonesCheck the current national or local official sourceCheck the current national or local official source
Fines and enforcementCheck the current national or local official sourceCheck the current national or local official source
Emergency numberNot verified112

Switzerland

Typical passenger-car speed limits: The source lists 100 km/h for expressways and 120 km/h for motorways.

Daytime lights: Effective from 1 January 2014.

Germany

Typical passenger-car speed limits: 130 km/h is advisory (Richtgeschwindigkeit); motorway sections without a posted limit are unrestricted.

Winter tyres / equipment: The source states that winter tyres are mandatory but gives no dates or conditions.

This is a planning summary, not legal advice. Road signs and current national rules take priority. Always check the linked official source before departure.