Switzerland requires foreign driving licence holders to exchange their licence within 12 months of obtaining a Swiss residence permit.
EU/EFTA licences
EU and EFTA driving licences can be exchanged directly — no driving test required. Visit the cantonal road authority (Strassenverkehrsamt) with your foreign licence, ID, passport photo, and CHF 30–50 fee.
Non-EU licences
Non-EU licence holders generally need to take the full Swiss driving test (theory + practical). Some countries have exchange agreements — check the ASTRA website for your country's status.
Temporary driving
You can drive on a foreign licence for up to 12 months after registering in Switzerland. After that, you must have exchanged or obtained a Swiss licence.