Car Rental in Switzerland for Chilean Travelers

Planning a road trip through Switzerland offers stunning landscapes and picturesque towns. If you're traveling from Chile, you might be wondering:

Can I drive in Switzerland with my Chilean license?
What insurance coverage will I need?
What is the average cost for car rentals?
Are there flexible options for one-way rentals?
Which road rules differ from those in Chile?

This guide aims to answer these questions with useful and practical tips. You'll find essential information for a seamless car rental experience, ensuring you enjoy your journey across Switzerland.

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in Switzerland?

Yes, Japanese travelers can legally drive in Switzerland with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License
Notes: Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter. EU/EEA driving licenses are valid for car rental across the EU/EEA, as well as in Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 19 and 99. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 23.23 per day.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for travelers departing from CL to CH.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
39
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- User-friendly booking process
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Free cancellation options
- Earn rewards through Alamo Insiders
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
370
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network in 140 countries
- Flexible rental periods
- Special offers for long-term rentals
- Online booking discounts
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and variety
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
176
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
83
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
106
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network of locations globally
- Premium and luxury vehicle options
- Excellent customer service
- Flexible rental terms
Best for
Travelers seeking premium vehicles and flexibility
Green Motion
global
8.5
Locations:
21
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Focus on sustainability
- Wide range of vehicle choices
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-friendly options
FLIZZR
global
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive prices
- Easy online booking
- 24/7 customer support
- Multiple pick-up locations
Best for
Travelers seeking affordable and reliable car rentals

Rentava
local
8.5
Locations:
2
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off
- No hidden fees
- Discounts for long-term rentals
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Unirent
local
8.5
Locations:
13
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicle types
- Personalized service
- Easy booking process
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and short-term rentals
Platinum Drive AG
local
8.5
Locations:
1
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental terms
- Wide selection of luxury vehicles
Best for
Luxury travelers and long-term rentals

Recommendations for Travelers from CL to CH

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in CH
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Want 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Want to save money
Staying in major cities only
Want unique vehicle experiences
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most Polish drivers prefer automatic for USA road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Polish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
NYC, Chicago, SF
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Miami, Vegas, LA

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

The USA offers diverse iconic routes and popular city loops that suit different travel styles. You can also choose one-way rentals to explore more efficiently.

What Insurance Do I Need?

Traveling from Chile to Switzerland requires understanding the car rental insurance options available. Swiss roads are known for their safety, but comprehensive coverage ensures a worry-free driving experience.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
CLP 13,000-21,000/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
CLP 4,300-6,900/day
Essential
Liability Insurance
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
CLP 4,300-8,600/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Switzerland. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$1,884.77 - $12,622.85

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$1,884.77 - $12,622.85

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals?

Smart planning and booking strategies can significantly reduce car rental expenses for Chilean travelers visiting Switzerland. These tips are tailored to ensure maximum savings without compromising convenience.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Reserving your rental car well in advance allows access to lower rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
Save up to 20%
Compare Rental Companies
Utilize platforms such as Rentalcars.com or Kayak to compare prices across various providers and find the best deal.
Save up to 25%
Opt for Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Selecting a full-to-full fuel policy can help avoid expensive refueling charges. Ensure to refill the tank at local gas stations before returning the car.
Save approximately CLP 15,000-30,000
Avoid Airport Pickups
Renting a car from locations outside major airports often results in lower fees and less congested service.
Save up to 15% on fees

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
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Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
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One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Switzerland.

Additional Costs
Be aware of extra charges that may not be included in the initial price.
- Winter tires fee (common during snowy months)
- Cross-border travel fees
- Additional driver fees
- Optional equipment costs (e.g., child seats, GPS)
- Young driver surcharges (under 25 years old)
Driving License and Requirements
Ensure you meet the legal requirements to drive in Switzerland.
- International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required
- Minimum age varies by rental company
- Certain vehicle categories may require specific licenses
- Bring your original driving license and matching ID
Vehicle Specifications
Make sure the vehicle suits your travel needs.
- Consider snow tires or chains during winter
- Check the vehicle's fuel policy
- Understand the vehicle insurance coverage
- Inspect the car for pre-existing damages
Driving in Switzerland
Familiarize yourself with Swiss driving rules and regulations.
- Right-hand driving system
- Speed limits are strictly enforced
- Mandatory use of headlights during the day
- Vignette required for motorway travel
- Snow tires or chains may be mandatory in winter
Rental Timing
Plan accordingly to optimize your rental experience.
- Check for additional charges for after-hours pickup/return
- Allow time for vehicle inspection during pickup and drop-off
- Be punctual to avoid extra fees for late returns
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Understand the logistics and costs of using different locations.
- Airport pickups may incur extra fees
- Consider the distance from your accommodation
- Check for one-way rental fees if returning to a different location

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

What Are the Differences Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

US and Polish traffic rules differ mainly in speed limits, signage units (miles vs. kilometers), alcohol tolerance (higher in the US), and right-on-red turns (more common in the US).

Right Turn on Red
CH
Allowed after full stop (unless prohibited by sign)
CL
Not allowed at red lights
School Buses
CH
Must stop when school bus has flashing red lights
CL
No specific school bus rules
Highway Passing
CH
Pass on the left, slower traffic keeps right
CL
Similar, but passing on the right is sometimes allowed
Blood Alcohol Limit
CH
0.08% BAC (varies by state)
CL
0.02% BAC (much stricter)
Mobile Phone Use
CH
Hands-free only in most states
CL
Hands-free only
Seatbelt Laws
CH
Mandatory for all occupants in most states
CL
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
CH
Park in direction of traffic, colored curbs have meanings
CL
Can park against traffic on one-way streets
Remember
- • Traffic rules vary by state - check local laws
- • Police stops are more common - stay calm and polite
- • Keep hands visible during police interactions
- • Always carry your license and rental agreement

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Chile renting a car in Switzerland

Is it really necessary to rent a car for a trip to Switzerland?

It depends on your travel style. Switzerland’s public transport (trains, buses) is world-class, punctual, and convenient. However, renting a car offers greater flexibility if you want to explore remote villages, stop freely in the mountains for photos, or travel without the constraints of a fixed timetable. It's also more convenient for families or those with lots of luggage.

How far in advance should I book a rental car in Switzerland?

It’s strongly recommended to book at least 1-2 months in advance, especially during peak seasons (June–September, December–February). Early booking ensures you secure your preferred vehicle (especially automatics) and often better rates.

Which rental platform do you recommend for booking a car in Switzerland?

I only and must recommend QEEQ. QEEQ is a leading global car rental comparison and booking platform, letting you easily compare prices from major companies (Hertz, Avis, Sixt, etc.), offering transparent pricing, clear insurance/package options, and avoiding hidden fees.

What type of car should I choose for mountain driving in Switzerland?

For mountain areas, choose a compact or mid-size car with a bit more power (e.g., VW Golf, Skoda Octavia). In winter, a 4x4/AWD SUV is safer. Manual cars allow better engine braking on slopes, but if you’re not used to them, book an automatic.

Are Swiss city roads complicated? Is it inconvenient to rent a large car?

Swiss old towns (Zurich, Geneva, Bern) have narrow streets and expensive, limited parking. A compact or economy car is much easier to maneuver and park if staying mainly in cities.

We are a family traveling with kids and lots of luggage. What car type do you recommend?

A station wagon (e.g., VW Passat Variant) or a mid-size SUV is ideal for families, offering ample trunk space and comfortable seating.

I’m used to driving automatics in Chile. Are they easy to rent in Switzerland?

Manual cars are more common and cheaper in Europe, but automatics are available – just fewer and more expensive. If you need an automatic, filter for it on QEEQ and book early.

Can I drive my Swiss rental car to neighboring countries like France, Italy, or Germany?

Usually yes, but you must inform the rental company at booking. There may be a cross-border fee. Also, check the specific requirements of each country, such as environmental stickers for France or highway vignettes for Austria/Czechia.

What’s the minimum rental period? Is it cost-effective to rent just for a day or two?

You can rent for just one day, but daily rates are lower for longer rentals. For simple city-to-city travel, trains may be cheaper. For in-depth regional exploration (e.g., Interlaken area), a short-term rental is worthwhile.

Do I need to rent a GPS device, or is using my phone enough?

Rental GPS units cost extra per day. It’s more economical to use your smartphone with Google Maps or Waze. Download offline Swiss maps in advance in case of poor signal, and consider a local SIM or roaming plan.

Can I use my Chilean driver’s license in Switzerland?

If your Chilean license has clear Latin letters (name, validity), it is legally valid for up to a year as a tourist. However, some rental companies may still require an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Is it necessary to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) if I have a Chilean license?

It is strongly recommended and almost always required. Rental companies often demand the IDP as an official translation. Without it, they may refuse to rent to you. Police checks may also be simpler with an IDP.

Where can I get an IDP in Chile?

You can get an IDP at the Automóvil Club de Chile. Apply in advance and ensure the validity covers your entire Swiss trip.

What documents do I need to present when picking up a rental car in Switzerland?

You must bring: 1) Your original Chilean driver’s license, 2) International Driving Permit (IDP), 3) Your passport, and 4) A major credit card under the main driver’s name for payment and deposit.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Switzerland?

Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some luxury vehicles may have a higher minimum age, usually 25.

Are there extra fees for drivers under 25?

Yes, drivers aged 21–24 usually pay a Young Driver Surcharge, a daily additional fee.

Is there a minimum driving experience required to rent a car?

Yes, you must have held your license for at least one year. Some companies or car groups require two years or more.

Can my spouse or friend also drive the rental car?

Yes, but they must be registered as additional drivers at pickup, present the same documents, and usually pay an extra daily fee per additional driver.

What does the total rental cost include?

The total usually includes the daily rental fee, VAT, airport surcharge (if applicable), and the insurance/package you select. On QEEQ, all cost details are itemized.

What is the Swiss motorway vignette? Will my rental car have one?

The vignette is a sticker allowing use of all Swiss motorways for a year. All Swiss rental cars come with it already attached, so you don’t need to buy one.

How much is the credit card deposit for a Swiss rental car?

The deposit varies by company, car class, and insurance package, usually between 500 and 2000 Swiss francs (CHF). It’s a pre-authorization hold, not an actual charge, released after you return the car.

When will my deposit be refunded?

After the car is returned and inspected, the company immediately releases the hold. The funds may take 7–30 business days to appear back in your available credit, depending on your card provider.

What do basic insurance terms CDW and TP mean?

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) limits your liability for damage to a set excess amount. TP (Theft Protection) limits your liability for theft to the same. Both mean you pay up to the excess, not more, if there’s damage or theft.

What is the 'excess' or 'deductible', and is it high in Switzerland?

The excess (franquicia) is the maximum you pay out-of-pocket for damage or theft. In Switzerland, this is often high—between 1000 and 3000 CHF. For example, if the excess is 1500 CHF, you pay up to this amount even if repairs cost more.

Should I buy Super Cover or zero-excess insurance?

Highly recommended! It raises your daily cost but means you pay nothing (or a very small amount) if there’s damage/theft. This is especially reassuring in unfamiliar road conditions.

Can I rely on my Chilean credit card’s car rental insurance?

Some premium cards offer rental insurance, but check if it covers Switzerland, is primary insurance, and covers all damages. Often, you must pay repair costs yourself and claim reimbursement at home—a complex process.

Is one-way rental (pick up in Zurich, drop off in Geneva) more expensive?

Yes, almost always. One-way rentals incur an extra fee (One-way Fee), which depends on distance and company policy.

What other hidden fees should I be aware of?

Possible extras include: young driver fee, additional driver fee, cross-border fee, GPS/child seat rental, after-hours pickup/drop-off surcharge, and high refueling charges if you return the car without a full tank. QEEQ usually lists these in the terms.

Is it better to pick up my car at the airport or in the city center?

Airport: more convenient but sometimes pricier due to surcharges. City: potentially cheaper, and you avoid driving tired after a flight, but you’ll need to reach the city office by public transport.

What should I check when picking up the rental car?

Carefully inspect and photograph/video: 1) All scratches/dents (ensure staff mark them), 2) Tires and rims, 3) Windshield for cracks, 4) Interior cleanliness and equipment, 5) Fuel gauge (should be full), 6) Odometer reading.

What does 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy mean?

You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. If not, you’ll be charged for fuel at a premium rate plus a service fee.

What if my reserved car isn't available at pickup?

The rental company must upgrade you to an equal or higher class at no extra cost if your booked car is unavailable.

How does the car return process work? How much time should I allow?

Bring the car to the designated area, and staff will check for damage and fuel level. The process usually takes at least 30 minutes. If returning outside business hours, a key drop-box is available, but you can’t confirm the condition with staff.

What happens if I return the car late?

Rentals are charged per 24-hour period. If you’re late (usually after a 30–60 minute grace period), you may be charged for an extra full day—often very expensive. Always return on time.

Why should I keep all rental contracts and receipts after returning the car?

Keep all paperwork until your deposit is released and you confirm no extra charges (e.g., for traffic fines). These documents are vital for resolving disputes.

Can I rent a car in Switzerland and return it in another country?

Rarely possible, and when allowed, international one-way fees are extremely high (hundreds to thousands of euros). Most companies and car types do not allow this. It's generally not recommended.

Do you drive on the left or right in Switzerland?

Switzerland drives on the right, as in Chile. The steering wheel is on the left.

What are the standard speed limits in Switzerland?

Unless otherwise posted: Urban areas – 50 km/h (sometimes 30); Rural roads – 80 km/h; Motorways – 120 km/h. Speed cameras are strict—always obey limits.

How do I drive in a roundabout in Switzerland?

You must yield to vehicles already in the roundabout. Once inside, you have the right of way. Signal right before exiting. This may differ from Chilean rules.

What are the most important right-of-way rules in Switzerland?

At unmarked intersections, priority is given to vehicles coming from your right. Trams and yellow PostBuses always have absolute priority, especially in mountain areas.

Are Swiss road signs difficult to understand?

Most signs use international symbols and are easy to understand. Instructions are in local languages (German/French/Italian), but GPS can help. Red circles mean 'prohibited,' blue circles mean 'mandatory,' red triangles are 'warnings.'

Do I need to drive with headlights on during the day?

Yes, Swiss law requires headlights or daytime running lights to be on at all times, day or night.

What are the child safety seat regulations?

Children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm must use an age- and size-appropriate child safety seat. You can rent these from the rental company, but book in advance.

Are winter tires mandatory in Switzerland?

Not legally required, but in practice, all winter rentals come with winter tires (October–April). If you have an accident without them in winter conditions, you may be held liable.

Do I need to know how to use snow chains?

If you plan to visit high mountain areas, you may encounter roads where chains are compulsory (indicated by blue circular signs). You can rent chains and ask staff to show you how to fit them. Remove chains on dry roads.

What are tips for driving on mountain roads in the Alps?

Uphill: maintain steady power, avoid frequent gear changes. Downhill: use lower gears for engine braking, avoid prolonged braking. On narrow roads, downhill traffic usually yields to uphill, but always yield to yellow PostBuses.

How are parking zones marked in Switzerland (blue, white, yellow)?

Blue: Use a parking disc (usually free for 1 hour, set the dial to arrival time + 30 min). White: Paid parking, pay at meter and display ticket. Yellow: Private or no-parking zones—never park there.

What should I do if I receive a traffic fine in Switzerland?

Fines are high. If caught by camera, the fine goes to the rental company, which charges an admin fee and forwards your info to authorities. The actual fine will be mailed to your home in Chile—follow instructions to pay.

What should I do in case of an accident or breakdown?

Stay calm, turn on hazard lights, wear your safety vest, place warning triangle 50–100m behind car. For injuries call ambulance (144); call police (117) for any accident. Contact the rental’s emergency number—usually on the window or your contract.

Are Swiss gas stations self-service? What fuel should I use?

Almost all stations are self-service. Park, fill up, note pump number, pay inside (credit card/cash). Make sure to use the correct fuel: Gasoline (Benzin/Sans Plomb 95/98) or Diesel. Mixing fuels damages the engine and is not covered by insurance.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Switzerland for Chilean Travelers

Planning a road trip through Switzerland offers stunning landscapes and picturesque towns. If you're traveling from Chile, you might be wondering:

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in Switzerland?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Travelers from CL to CH

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are the Differences Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations