Exchange a foreign driving licence
Living in Switzerland with a foreign licence? Depending on your country of origin, you can exchange it for a Swiss licence. If a control drive is required, we prepare you for it in Vernier and Coppet.
Your situation
The conditions depend on your country of origin, your licence category and how long you have lived in Switzerland.
Licence issued in the EU or EEA
The exchange is usually simpler. For many countries, it is done without a control drive or theory exam. Some conditions still apply.
Licence issued outside the EU or EEA
A control drive and/or a medical exam may be required. Depending on your situation, a theory and practical exam may be needed.
12 months to act
Your foreign licence can be used for 12 months after you take up residence in Switzerland. After that, you can no longer drive in Switzerland with it.
Where to apply?
You apply to the vehicle office of your canton of residence. The driving school does not issue the Swiss licence.
Office cantonal des véhicules (OCV)
Route de Veyrier 86, 1227 Carouge
Service des automobiles et de la navigation (SAN)
For Coppet, Nyon and La Côte
Documents to prepare
The documents requested may include:
- the exchange application form
- your original foreign licence, still valid, and a copy
- an ID document or your foreigner’s permit
- a recent passport-size photo
- proof of residence in Switzerland
- a certificate from an approved optician, less than 24 months old (Geneva)
- a medical certificate, if required
- an official translation, if required
The list may vary depending on your situation and canton: check it on ge.ch or vd.ch before you go.
The exchange step by step
From your foreign licence to your Swiss licence.
With the OCV (Geneva) or the SAN (Vaud): documents, fees and any exams.
With the form and the documents requested by your canton.
If required: a 90-min double lesson with us, in Vernier or Coppet.
We accompany you to the control drive: it is included in our 380 CHF package.
It is issued by the cantonal office.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the preparation cost?
380 CHF: a 90-min double lesson and accompanying you to the control drive. OCV or SAN fees are extra, paid directly to the cantonal office.
How long can I drive with my foreign licence?
In principle 12 months after taking up residence in Switzerland. After that, the exchange is needed to keep driving.
Is a control drive always required?
No. It depends on the country that issued your licence and the categories to be transferred. Ask the OCV or the SAN.
Can the driving school do the exchange for me?
No. You apply to the cantonal office. We prepare your driving if a control drive is required.
Learn more: our full guide to exchanging a foreign licence (in French).
A control drive to prepare?
Book your licence exchange preparation in Vernier or Coppet.
Book nowWhatsApp +41 76 562 24 71