Switzerland says goodbye to the paper driving licence

From 1 November the credit card format will be compulsory and the old blue documents will no longer be valid. A fine of CHF 20 will be imposed on anyone who does not adapt their driving licence.

As of 1 November 2024, blue paper driving licences will no longer be valid. Holders of these will have to apply for the new licence in credit card format (LCC), which complies with international and European standards. In the event of a check, those who do not present the updated document will receive a fine of CHF 20.

In addition, those who still drive abroad with a blue driving licence should be aware that the old paper licence is not recognised everywhere.

Although the card-format driving licence has been available since 2003, some 330,000 people still hold the paper version.

To exchange your driving licence, you have to go to your canton’s traffic office, fill out an application form and present your old licence together with a passport photo and an identity document. The new document will be sent by post within a few days.

NB: The old driving licence in credit card format remains perfectly valid and does not require replacement unless changes need to be made, e.g. regarding the wearing of glasses.

This distinguishes Swiss legislation from European legislation, where driving licences are subject to expiry.