International Driving Permit

International Driving Permit
In order to provide you with the best possible information and advice on this subject, and to help you avoid any potential problems, we have written this article on international driving licenses.
I want to drive abroad but I have a Swiss driving license …
If you’re going abroad, it’s important to know the driving conditions in the country you’re visiting. In this case, you will need to apply for an International Driving Permit.

How do I obtain an International Driving Permit?
If your country’s regulations require you to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP), you must apply by post to the Geneva motor vehicle department.

What documents do I need to obtain an International Driving Permit?
To obtain an International Driving Permit, you will need to provide your original Geneva driver’s license and a passport-size, head-on, headless photo. If you wish to apply by post, don’t forget to enclose a photo and photocopy of both sides of your Geneva driver’s license. The price of an international driver’s license is CHF 40.

When do I need to apply for an International Driving Permit?
If your destination country is in the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), your Swiss driving license is valid. So there’s no need to apply for an international driving license. If the Swiss driver’s license is not valid, you need to apply for an international driver’s license from the relevant authorities.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid for?
The international driving license is valid for three years, but cannot exceed the validity of the Swiss driving license.

I have a foreign driver’s license. Can I drive in Switzerland?
If you are a foreigner and wish to drive in Switzerland, it is important to know that foreign driving licenses can only be used in Switzerland for private purposes and for a maximum of one year. If you no longer meet these criteria, you will need to exchange your foreign driving license for a Swiss one.

If you’d like to find out more, please visit our official www.aelautoecole.ch page.