FAQ's

At Vignetteswitzerland.com, we understand that the regulations of the Swiss motorway system can raise many questions—especially when it comes to purchasing and using the Swiss e-vignette. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive FAQ section to provide clear and reliable answers to all your concerns.

Whether you’re wondering about how to buy an e-vignette, validity periods, number plate changes, refunds, or payment options, we’ve got you covered. Our goal is to make your experience as smooth as possible, ensuring you can travel on Swiss highways with confidence and ease.

If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to our support team.

General FAQ

The Swiss vignette is mandatory for all vehicles up to 3.5 tons using the national motorway network. It serves as a toll system, allowing access to highways and expressways without the need for toll booths.
The price of the Swiss motorway vignette is CHF 40. This applies to both physical and digital versions. Additional administrative fees may apply if purchasing from third-party vendors.
The vignette is valid for one calendar year, from December 1 of the previous year until January 31 of the following year (e.g., the 2025 vignette is valid from December 1, 2024, to January 31, 2026).
There are two types of vignettes:
  • Sticker Vignette – A physical sticker that must be affixed to the inside of the windshield of a car, the windshield of a motorcycle and/or attached to a trailer/caravan.
  • E-Vignette – A digital alternative that is linked to a vehicle’s license plate and does not require a physical sticker. This applies to cars, campers, motorcycles, trailers and caravans.
The vignette can be purchased at:
  • Swiss border crossings
  • Gas stations and post offices in Switzerland
  • Online via the official government website or Vignetteswitzerland.com
  • Automobile clubs such as TCS (Touring Club Switzerland)
Yes, a separate vignette is required for trailers and caravans weighing up to 3.5 tons. The same applies to motorhomes with trailers. The trailer always needs its own vignette.
  • If the motorhome weighs 3.5 tons or less, a standard vignette is required.
  • If the motorhome exceeds 3.5 tons, a heavy vehicle charge (LSVA) must be paid instead of a vignette.
Yes, vintage cars are subject to the same regulations as modern vehicles. If they use the Swiss motorway, they require a vignette.
No, the vignette is required immediately upon entering Switzerland if you use the motorway. There is no grace period or exemption for reaching the first exit. There are some toll free excemptions that can be found here.
Yes, Switzerland does not offer short-term vignettes (e.g., daily, weekly, or monthly passes). The annual vignette is the only option, even if you visit for a single day.

Questions About The E-Vignette

No, the e-vignette does not renew automatically. You must manually purchase a new vignette each year.
The e-vignette is valid immediately upon purchase. However, you must ensure that you’ve selected the correct country youre car has been registered and if the correct license plate number is entered.
No, carrying proof of payment is not required. The vignette is linked to the vehicle's license plate, which can be verified electronically by authorities.
If you enter the wrong license plate number, you may not be able to correct it. The system does not allow plate number modifications after purchase, and you may need to buy a new vignette.
Yes, a plate change is allowed under specific conditions, such as replacing a damaged or lost plate. However, the process must be completed through the official portal, and restrictions may apply.
Before purchasing, verify your license plate entry and ensure you do not buy a second vignette unnecessarily. The system does not automatically check for duplicate purchases.
No, refunds are generally not provided for mistaken purchases. It is essential to check all details before finalizing the transaction.
You can pay with almost all online payment methods. Vignetteswitzerland.com accepts using credit cards, debit cards, and other electronic payment methods available on the official purchasing platform.
Switzerland does not offer short-term vignettes, even in digital form. The system is designed for an annual fee structure.
The vignette follows a calendar year system for consistency and ease of enforcement. This approach aligns with Swiss road toll policies and simplifies administrative handling.
Yes, if the vehicle with 'U number' plates is used on Swiss motorways, it must have a valid vignette.
No, once purchased, the two vignette types are independent. A sticker cannot be exchanged for an e-vignette.
Your plate should be visible in the system if correctly registered during purchase. If it does not appear, verify your purchase details and contact customer support if necessary.
Yes, you can purchase an e-vignette for another person. However, you must enter their vehicle’s correct license plate information at the time of purchase.
If your e-vignette is not displayed in your account, check whether the purchase was completed successfully. You may also need to log in with the correct credentials.
Yes, you can request a duplicate receipt by contacting our support department.

Heavy Vehicle Charges (PSVA) for Foreign Vehicles

The Performance-Related Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA) is a toll for foreign vehicles over 3.5 tons using Swiss roads, including motorhomes, trucks, and trailers.
All foreign motorhomes, trucks, trailers, and heavy vehicles over 3.5 tons must pay the PSVA when driving in Switzerland.
The charge depends on vehicle weight, emission class, and travel duration in Switzerland.
We advise you to pay the PSVA at Vignetteswitzerland.com/ Alternatively, you can pay the charge at border crossings, customs offices, and some service stations in Switzerland.
Yes, you can prepay at Swiss customs offices or electronically via our application form.
No, vehicles subject to the PSVA do not need a Swiss motorway vignette.
Yes, first-time users must register their vehicle details when paying the PSVA.
Failure to pay can result in fines and legal consequences when entering or leaving Switzerland.
No, once paid, the PSVA is non-refundable.
Some vehicles, such as diplomatic or emergency vehicles, may be exempt. Check with Swiss customs for details.