Car Rental in Switzerland for US Travelers

Embarking on a trip to Switzerland offers stunning scenic drives, whether through alpine roads or quaint countryside. As a US traveler, understanding the specifics of car rentals in Switzerland is essential for a smooth journey.

Do I need an international driving permit in Switzerland?
What insurance options should I consider?
What are the general costs for renting a car?
Are there restrictions or fees for one-way rentals?
What are the major driving differences between the US and Switzerland?

This guide will address all these queries, providing reliable information and actionable tips for a hassle-free driving experience in Switzerland. It even includes a summary table for quick reference on critical details.

Can US Citizens Drive in Switzerland?

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

Form of ID:
A valid passport.
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. Supported cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, and DinersClub. Some offers may require two credit cards.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 19 and 80. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 25.00 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?

Explore a range of car rental options in Switzerland, from international chains to efficient local providers, each catering to diverse traveler requirements.

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

Rental Recommendations for US Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You prefer reliable service with multilingual support.
You plan to travel extensively across Switzerland.
You require flexibility in pickup and drop-off locations.
You prioritize 24/7 customer assistance.

Choose Local Brands If:

You want cost-effective rental options.
You are staying primarily in urban areas.
You seek unique vehicle choices for specific needs.
You are comfortable using digital platforms for bookings.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group size, luggage needs, destination routes, and driving preferences. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car options and policies to find the best fit for your trip.

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 Swiss drivers prefer automatic for CH 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 US 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
Geneva, Zurich, Bern
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Across Switzerland
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Lake Geneva, Interlaken, Swiss Alps

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.

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Switzerland?

Switzerland is known for its picturesque landscapes and charming cities, making it a favorite destination for travelers. Explore iconic spots like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne, or venture into the Alps for unforgettable views and adventures.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in Switzerland, basic insurance is a legal requirement. To ensure a safe and worry-free trip, additional coverage is recommended. Be aware of specific insurance policies and coverage details provided by your rental company.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car resulting from collisions or accidents.
$20-30/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Protects against theft or attempted theft of the rental vehicle.
$10-15/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers injuries or damages to third parties and their property.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Offers medical coverage for the driver and passengers in case of accidents.
$5-10/day
Optional
Super Collision Damage Waiver
Provides extensive coverage for damages, minimizing or eliminating the excess charge.
$30-50/day
Recommended

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

$0.00 - $5,529.21

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $5,529.21

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 in Switzerland?

Practical tips for US travelers to Switzerland to secure the best deals on car rentals and reduce unnecessary expenses.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Well in Advance
Secure your car rental reservation as early as possible to access better rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
Potential savings: 20-30%
Use Price Comparison Tools
Leverage online platforms like Kayak, Expedia, or QEEQ to compare prices from various rental companies.
Potential savings: $50-100 per week
Plan for Fuel Costs
Choose a rental company with a full-to-full fuel policy and locate affordable gas stations in Switzerland.
Potential savings: $30-50 on fuel expenses
Avoid Renting at Airports
Pick up your rental car from city locations rather than airports to avoid added surcharges.
Potential savings: $20-50 per rental
Review Insurance Options
Check if your credit card or existing insurance policy covers car rentals to avoid purchasing redundant coverage.
Potential savings: $15-25 per day

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.
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Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
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What Should You Pay Attention To?

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

Hidden Costs
Be cautious about additional charges that might not be included in the advertised price.
- Airport pickup surcharges
- Extra fees for winter equipment (e.g., snow chains)
- Charges for cross-border travel
- High fuel prices compared to the US
Insurance Coverage
Verify your insurance options before committing to extra coverage.
- Check if your credit card or travel insurance covers rentals abroad
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) may already be included
- Consider third-party insurance for potentially lower costs
Fuel Policy Awareness
Understand the fuel policies to avoid unexpected expenses.
- Full-to-full policy is common but ensure fuel level is recorded
- Fuel prices can be significantly higher than in the US
- Locate nearby fuel stations before returning the car
Contract Terms
Carefully review the rental agreement.
- Ensure unlimited mileage if planning long trips
- Understand penalties for late returns
- Confirm the process for reporting damages
Navigation & Equipment
Consider equipment needs for a smooth driving experience.
- GPS rental may be offered but could be expensive
- Snow tires are mandatory in winter conditions
- Check compatibility for phone mounts if using your own navigation apps

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.

Differences and Similarities Between US and CH Traffic Rules

Understanding traffic rules in Switzerland is crucial for US travelers. Differences include right-on-red permissions, signage language, and speed limits, while similarities include seatbelt laws and mobile phone restrictions.

Right Turn on Red
CH
Not allowed under most circumstances
US
Allowed after a full stop unless prohibited by sign
Speed Limits
CH
Expressed in kilometers per hour (e.g., 50 km/h in urban areas)
US
Expressed in miles per hour (e.g., 25 mph in urban areas)
Road Sign Language
CH
Primarily in German, French, or Italian
US
Primarily in English
Blood Alcohol Limit
CH
0.05% BAC
US
0.08% BAC
Emergency Vehicle Interaction
CH
Move to the right and stop when an emergency vehicle approaches
US
Similar practice is followed
Mobile Phone Use
CH
Hands-free devices only allowed
US
Hands-free devices only allowed
Seatbelt Laws
CH
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
US
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Remember
- • Familiarize yourself with local speed limits and signs as they use kilometers and different languages.
- • Always carry your driver's license and rental agreement when operating a vehicle.
- • Be aware of stricter alcohol limits when driving in Switzerland.
- • Ensure your vehicle is equipped with mandatory items like a warning triangle and reflective vest.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from United States renting a car in Switzerland

Do I really need to rent a car in Switzerland? How does it compare to public transport?

Switzerland has an outstanding public transport network—trains, buses, ferries—that is clean, punctual, and extensive. If you're staying in major cities (Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne) and visiting attractions like Jungfrau or Matterhorn (which require mountain trains/cable cars), public transport is more efficient and stress-free. However, if you want to visit remote villages, have lots of luggage, or are traveling with children, renting a car gives you unmatched flexibility and freedom.

What documents do US citizens need to rent a car in Switzerland?

You’ll need: 1) A valid US driver's license (held for at least one year), 2) Your passport, and 3) An International Driving Permit (IDP). While not all rental companies strictly require the IDP, Swiss law mandates non-EU license holders carry one. You can easily get it from AAA or AATA in the US. It acts as an official translation of your license.

Is there an age limit for renting a car in Switzerland?

Yes. Most companies require drivers to be at least 21, and charge a substantial 'young driver surcharge' for those under 25. Some high-end or large vehicles might require drivers to be 25 or older. Always check the age policy for the specific vehicle during booking.

When is the best time to book a rental car in Switzerland?

Book as early as possible, especially for peak seasons (June-August, December-February). Reserve at least 2-3 months in advance to secure your preferred car (especially automatic) and better rates. Last-minute bookings are expensive and options are limited.

Where is the best place to book a Swiss rental car?

For the best deals and convenience, use QEEQ. It compares major suppliers (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, etc.) in one place, offering exclusive discounts and bundled insurance options—often better than booking direct.

Should I choose automatic or manual transmission?

Strongly recommend automatic. Manual cars are common and slightly cheaper, but Swiss roads are mountainous, with frequent hill starts and narrow streets. Unless you’re very comfortable with manuals, stick to automatic for a stress-free experience.

Does vehicle size matter? Should I rent an SUV?

Yes, size matters. Unless you have 4+ people or lots of luggage, choose a compact or mid-size car. Many towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces. Large SUVs can be cumbersome. Only consider a compact SUV with AWD if you’re visiting snow regions in winter.

Can I drive my Swiss rental car into neighboring countries (France, Germany, Italy)?

Usually yes, but you must state your plans during booking and check for any 'cross-border fee.' Some luxury vehicles or certain suppliers have restrictions. Always confirm, or your insurance may not be valid abroad.

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

If you plan to drive immediately upon arrival, airport pickup is most convenient. If you’ll stay in the city for a few days first, use public transport and pick up the car downtown when you start your road trip. This saves rental days and parking hassles.

What hidden terms should I watch for when booking?

Check for unlimited mileage (usually standard); confirm the fuel policy (full-to-full is best); and review the cancellation policy—know the free cancellation/modification window. Read all conditions carefully.

What does the total rental cost in Switzerland include?

Main components: 1) Base daily rate, 2) VAT (currently 8.1%), 3) Mandatory insurance (like third-party liability), 4) Swiss highway vignette (usually included), 5) Airport/station surcharges if applicable, and 6) Any add-ons (extra insurance, GPS, child seats, extra driver).

What is Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP/LDW)? Do I need them?

CDW and TP (often combined as LDW) are not true insurance, but waive your financial responsibility above a set deductible (typically 1000-3000 CHF) if the car is damaged or stolen. Without them, you could be liable for the full value of the car.

Can I use my US credit card’s rental car insurance in Switzerland?

Many premium cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum) offer rental CDW/LDW coverage. You must pay in full with the card and decline the rental company’s CDW/LDW. Contact your issuer for a written Certificate of Coverage and check all terms—ensure Switzerland is covered and check for vehicle restrictions. If you have a claim, you’ll pay upfront and claim reimbursement from your card issuer.

What is Super CDW (SCDW) or 'zero deductible' insurance?

This is an upgrade to standard CDW. SCDW or full coverage reduces your deductible to zero, so you pay nothing for covered damage (except for negligence/violations). It costs more but gives peace of mind. QEEQ often offers cheaper third-party full coverage than rental counters.

What is third-party liability insurance? Is it included?

It covers injury or damage you cause to others. Swiss law requires all rentals to include minimum third-party liability coverage. You can usually pay to upgrade to a higher limit, but the legal minimum is sufficient for most travelers.

What is the Swiss highway vignette? Do I need to buy one separately?

The vignette is a sticker on the windshield allowing use of Swiss highways. It’s valid for a calendar year. All rental cars in Switzerland include it by default—no need (or way) to buy separately. If driving a foreign (non-Swiss) rental into Switzerland, you’ll need to buy one at the border.

Do extra drivers cost more?

Yes, most companies charge 10-15 CHF per day for each additional driver, with a maximum cap. All drivers must be present at pickup and show their license, IDP, and passport.

Is there a high fee for one-way rentals?

Within Switzerland, dropping off in another city is usually free or low cost. Cross-border drop-offs (e.g. pick up in Switzerland, return in France) are extremely expensive—hundreds or even thousands of dollars. It's best to plan a round trip within one country.

How much is the security deposit when picking up the car?

The deposit is a temporary hold on your credit card, varying by company, car type, and insurance chosen. If you decline CDW, it can be several thousand dollars; with full coverage, it’s much lower. The hold is released after you return the car damage-free.

What other extra fees might I encounter?

Possible extras: GPS rental (use your phone with offline maps instead), child seat rental, winterization fee, after-hours pickup/drop-off fee, and administrative fees for processing fines (the actual fines come separately from police).

What is the step-by-step process when picking up a rental car?

1) Go to the rental counter, 2) Show your booking, passport, US license, IDP, and credit card, 3) Staff may upsell insurance or upgrades—decline if not needed, 4) Sign the rental contract, 5) Get keys and car location info, 6) Go to the lot to find your car.

What should I check before signing the rental contract?

Verify all personal details, pickup/drop-off times and locations, car type, and—most importantly—the fee breakdown. Make sure insurance purchases/declines are correct. Ask about anything unclear before signing.

What should I do before driving away with my rental?

1) Walk around the car and record all existing scratches, dents, or damage (take photos/videos). 2) Check the interior for cleanliness and function (AC, radio, windows). 3) Confirm car documents are present. 4) Make sure all damage is marked on the checkout form.

How do I quickly get used to a new rental car?

Adjust the seat and mirrors, find and test lights, wipers, turn signals, and hazard lights. Confirm how to open the fuel cap and which fuel to use. If automatic, get familiar with gear positions. Drive slowly in the lot to test brakes and acceleration.

Is there really a big difference between manual and automatic in Switzerland?

Absolutely. Swiss terrain is mountainous with steep slopes and frequent hill starts. If you’re not highly experienced with a manual, automatic is far safer and less stressful.

What special vehicle preparations are required for winter driving (November–April)?

By law, all cars must have winter tires in wintery conditions. Rental cars will have them installed during the season, often included in the rate or as a winter surcharge. Ask if unsure.

Should I rent snow chains? How do I use them?

If you’ll visit high-altitude villages or ski resorts in winter, renting snow chains is smart. Some mountain roads require them in snow/ice (look for blue chain signs). Ask staff to demonstrate installation, and watch a YouTube tutorial. Don’t exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) when chains are on.

What are the rules for child safety seats in Switzerland?

Children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm (4'11") must use an appropriate child seat or booster. You can rent seats from the rental company (expensive) or bring your own from home.

Will my rental car have GPS navigation?

Some cars have built-in GPS, others require a paid add-on. Your smartphone with Google Maps or Waze is better—just download Swiss maps for offline use and bring a car mount and charging cable.

Will the car have a full tank when I pick it up?

Almost always yes. The standard policy is 'full-to-full'—return the car with a full tank. Keep your last fuel receipt as proof.

What are the speed limits in Switzerland? How do they differ from the US?

Speeds are in kilometers/hour: Cities—50 km/h (31 mph), some residential/school zones—30 km/h (19 mph), rural roads—80 km/h (50 mph), expressways—100 km/h (62 mph), motorways—120 km/h (75 mph). Enforcement is strict and fines are high.

How do I drive through roundabouts in Switzerland?

Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout (from the left). No turn signal entering, but signal right before you exit. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists.

How do Swiss right-of-way rules differ from the US?

On a 'priority road' (yellow diamond sign), you have right-of-way. No sign? Default is yield to the right. At unmarked intersections, always give way to traffic from your right.

What should I know about mountain driving in Switzerland?

1) Uphill traffic has priority on single-lane stretches. 2) Use low gears for downhill stretches—don’t ride your brakes. 3) Honk before blind corners. 4) Stay close to the mountain side, away from cliff edges.

What do I do if I encounter a tram (streetcar) while driving?

Trams always have right-of-way unless signals say otherwise. Never block a tram. If passengers are boarding/alighting and there’s no safety island, stop and wait until doors close.

Are there a lot of speed cameras in Switzerland?

Yes, both fixed and mobile cameras are everywhere, including towns and rural routes, often well-hidden. Strictly obey posted speed limits to avoid hefty fines.

What should I know about tunnel driving in Switzerland?

Remove sunglasses and turn on low-beam headlights before entering, even if the tunnel is well-lit. Maintain a safe distance from the car ahead and never turn around or reverse inside a tunnel.

What are the most important Swiss road signs to recognize?

Key ones: Yellow diamond (priority road), red circle/white bar (do not enter), red circle/white background (no entry except authorized), blue circle/white arrow (mandatory direction), red triangle (warning—curves, slopes, animals).

Can I overtake on the right, like in the US?

No! In Switzerland, overtake only on the left. The right lane is for driving, not passing. After overtaking, return to the right lane. 'Left lane hogging' is illegal and fined.

Can I use my phone while driving?

Only with hands-free devices. Holding a phone for any reason while driving (calls, texts, navigation) is illegal and carries a heavy fine.

What rights do pedestrians and cyclists have?

Pedestrians in crosswalks always have right-of-way. Stop if someone looks like they want to cross. Many towns have bike lanes—always yield to cyclists and respect their space.

How are Swiss roads? Are they easy to drive on?

Swiss roads are excellently maintained—smooth surfaces, clear signs. Highways and main routes are modern. Mountain roads are winding but in good condition. The main challenges are narrow village streets and unfamiliar traffic rules.

What should I do if my rental car breaks down or I have an emergency?

Pull over safely, put on the mandatory reflective vest, and place the warning triangle 50-100 meters behind the car. Call the rental company’s roadside assistance or Swiss emergency services (TCS at 140).

What are Swiss laws on drinking and driving?

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. For new drivers (<3 years) and professionals, it’s 0.01%. It’s best to avoid any alcohol if driving—penalties are severe.

Do I need to use headlights during the day?

Yes. Since 2014, all vehicles must use daytime running lights or low-beam headlights at all times, year-round. Most modern cars do this automatically, but turn them on manually if needed.

What do the different parking space colors mean in Switzerland?

Blue = free with a parking disc (usually 1-1.5 hrs, set disc to next half hour), White = pay-and-display (use meter/app and put receipt on dash), Yellow = private or special use—never park here or risk towing.

What is a parking disc and how do I use it?

A blue disc with a rotating dial to mark your arrival time. Park in a blue zone, set the disc to the next half-hour mark after arrival, and place it visibly on your dashboard. Overstaying or incorrect use gets you fined.

How do I refuel in Switzerland? Gasoline or diesel?

Most stations are self-service. Gasoline is 'Bleifrei 95' (green nozzle) or 'Bleifrei 98'; diesel is 'Diesel' (black or yellow nozzle). Double-check your rental’s required fuel—misfueling can cause major, uninsured damage.

What should I do when returning my rental car?

1) Fill the tank at the nearest station (keep the receipt). 2) Remove your belongings and tidy up. 3) Return on time (late return = extra day charge). 4) Inspect the car with staff and get a signed return report. If no staff, photograph the car’s condition and dashboard.

What should I watch out for when driving from Switzerland into Italy?

1) Beware of ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in Italian towns—unauthorized entry = big fines sent months later. Research ZTL boundaries and park outside. 2) Driving style is more aggressive in Italy. 3) Italian highways are tolled (ticket in, pay at exit) vs. Switzerland’s vignette. 4) Inform your rental company about cross-border plans.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Switzerland for US Travelers

Embarking on a trip to Switzerland offers stunning scenic drives, whether through alpine roads or quaint countryside. As a US traveler, understanding the specifics of car rentals in Switzerland is essential for a smooth journey.

Can US Citizens Drive in Switzerland?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Rental Recommendations for US Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Switzerland?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Switzerland?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Differences and Similarities Between US and CH Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations