Local rules and requirements
Renting a car in Switzerland can be a great way to explore the country’s beautiful scenery and charming towns. However, there are some rules and requirements that you should be aware of before you rent a car. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
Age restrictions
Most car rental companies in Switzerland require drivers to be at least 20 years old and have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. However, some companies may require drivers to be at least 21 or 25 years old. Additionally, some companies may charge a young driver fee for drivers under the age of 25.
Driver’s license
You will need to present a valid driver’s license when you pick up your rental car in Switzerland. If your license is not in English, you may need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in order to rent a car. It’s always a good idea to check with the rental company beforehand to see if an IDP is required.
Insurance
All rental cars in Switzerland come with mandatory third-party liability insurance. However, this insurance may not cover damage to the rental car itself or theft of the car. Many rental companies offer additional insurance options that cover these types of risks. It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any insurance policy before you purchase it.
Road rules
Switzerland has strict road rules that all drivers must follow. Here are a few key rules to keep in mind:
- Drivers and all passengers must wear seat belts.
- The use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited, unless a hands-free device is used.
- The maximum speed limit on highways is 120 km/h, but in some areas it may be lower.
- The legal blood alcohol content limit for drivers is 0.05%.
Major car rental companies in Switzerland
If you’re planning to rent a car in Switzerland, there are several car rental companies to choose from. Here are a few of the major companies with locations at main airports:
Avis
Avis is a global car rental company with locations in over 165 countries. In Switzerland, Avis has locations at all major airports and other locations throughout the country. Avis offers a variety of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury cars.
Website: https://www.avis.ch/
Europcar
Europcar is a European car rental company with locations in over 140 countries. In Switzerland, Europcar has locations at all major airports and other locations throughout the country. Europcar offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury cars.
Website: https://www.europcar.ch/
Hertz
Hertz is a global car rental company with locations in over 150 countries. In Switzerland, Hertz has locations at all major airports and other locations throughout the country. Hertz offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury cars.
Website: https://www.hertz.ch/
Sixt
Sixt is a German car rental company with locations in over 105 countries. In Switzerland, Sixt has locations at all major airports and other locations throughout the country. Sixt offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury cars.
Website: https://www.sixt.ch/
Renting a car in Switzerland is a convenient way to explore the country’s many attractions, from the stunning Alpine scenery to the picturesque towns and villages. However, it’s important to be aware of the local rules and requirements for renting a car in Switzerland, including age restrictions, driver’s license requirements, and insurance options. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the road rules as well to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience. When choosing a rental company, consider the major companies listed above, which offer a range of vehicles and convenient locations. Shop around and compare prices and options to find the best deal for your needs. With a little bit of preparation, you can enjoy a hassle-free and memorable driving experience in Switzerland.