Road traffic: these are the new rules
PLEASE NOTE Various changes to road traffic will come into force in 2024. The changes affect, among other things, the registration of new vehicles, the performance of medical examinations and the practical driving test.
From January 1, 2024, CO2 billing for the registration of vehicles from small and direct importers will take place online. If a passenger car or delivery van exceeds a certain CO2 target, a penalty must be paid before initial registration. The penalty will now be levied by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE), which means that this business will come from a single source. The data required for the calculation will be recorded digitally in future.
No additional eye test from March 1
Anyone who already has a learner's or driver's license and wants to acquire a new license category will no longer have to take an additional eye test from March 1. This also applies to people who wish to acquire a professional license category. Their eyesight will be tested during the road traffic medical examination.
Anyone aged 75 or over who applies for a learner's permit or driver's license for the first time must undergo a medical examination. Previously, this age limit was 65. There is also a change to the duration of the practical driving test for categories A and B. The practical tests must now be taken on public roads for at least 45 minutes.
More driver assistance systems from April 1
In accordance with European registration regulations, new vehicles must be equipped with an accident data recorder and new driver assistance systems from April. The systems are used, for example, to warn of drowsiness or distraction, for automatic emergency braking in the event of danger or for assistance when reversing and turning. The protection of personal data is guaranteed and the changes are in line with the Swiss Data Protection Act. Improved bodywork elements also increase the safety of vehicle occupants and pedestrians.
To ensure that the maximum speeds are adhered to, particularly in 20 km/h and 30 km/h zones, all e-bikes with pedal assistance up to 45 km/h must be equipped with a speedometer in future. The speedometer equipment requirement will also apply to new fast e-bikes from April 1. Vehicles already on the road must be retrofitted by April 1, 2027.
