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Driving in Slovakia vs. Switzerland: Key Differences Explained

When navigating the roads of Slovakia and Switzerland, drivers encounter distinct regulations and practices that influence their travel experience. From varying speed limits and lane markings to unique penalties for traffic violations, understanding these contrasts is essential for ensuring a secure journey in both nations. Discover how these driving customs can impact your safety abroad.

Lanes

Markings: Solid Yellow Line
slovakia:
Marks the left edge on divided roads.
switzerland:
Used for temporary road changes or construction zones.
Markings: Dashed Yellow Line
slovakia:
Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe.
switzerland:
Used in temporary traffic management.
Overtaking: On Right
slovakia:
Allowed on multi-lane roads or when the vehicle ahead is turning left.
switzerland:
Not typically allowed, except in certain slow-moving traffic situations.

Speeds Limits

Urban Areas: Standard
slovakia:
50 km/h
switzerland:
30-50 km/h
Urban Areas: Residential Zones
slovakia:
20-30 km/h
switzerland:
30 km/h
Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles
slovakia:
90 km/h
switzerland:
80 km/h
Rural Areas: Buses And Vans
slovakia:
90 km/h
switzerland:
80 km/h
Highways: Cars And Motorcycles
slovakia:
130 km/h
switzerland:
120 km/h
Highways: Trucks And Trailers
slovakia:
90 km/h
switzerland:
80 km/h
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
slovakia:
Electronic signs display current limits.
switzerland:
Electronic signs display current limits
Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines
slovakia:
Yes
switzerland:
Yes, drivers can be fined on the spot.

Signals

Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together
slovakia:
Not used in Slovakia
switzerland:
Prepare to go
Traffic Signs: Language
slovakia:
Slovak; symbols are standard
switzerland:
Symbols are standard, French, German, Italian and Rumantsch languages are used
Traffic Signs: Warning
slovakia:
Triangular-shaped with red borders
switzerland:
Triangular-shaped with a red border

Turns

Right Turn On Red
slovakia:
Not allowed
switzerland:
Prohibited unless a specific sign allows it
U- Turns Allowed
slovakia:
Allowed unless prohibited by a sign
switzerland:
Allowed unless prohibited by sign

Documentation

Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A
slovakia:
Accepted; International Driving Permit recommended
switzerland:
Accepted; International Driving Permit recommended for non-French/German/Italian speaking licenses
Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U
slovakia:
International Driving Permit required along with local license
switzerland:
Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended
Vehicle Inspection: Requirement
slovakia:
Mandatory and regular inspections required
switzerland:
Vehicle inspection is required regularly; proof must be available
Vehicle Inspection: Sticker
slovakia:
Displayed on windshield
switzerland:
Proof of inspection is kept in the vehicle
Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest
slovakia:
Mandatory
switzerland:
Not mandatory

Alcohol

Limits: General Drivers
slovakia:
0.00%
switzerland:
0.05%
Limits: Professional Drivers
slovakia:
0.00%
switzerland:
0.05%
Enforcement: Random Checks
slovakia:
Common; checkpoints used frequently
switzerland:
Common; police conduct random breath tests
Enforcement: Fines
slovakia:
Can be substantial
switzerland:
Substantial; fines can be based on income
Test Refusal
slovakia:
Can result in license suspension
switzerland:
Can result in license suspension and fines

Roundabouts

Signaling: Entering
slovakia:
Signal if turning immediately upon entry
switzerland:
No signaling normally required when entering
Lane Usage: Right
slovakia:
Use for first exit or straight
switzerland:
Use for the first exit or straight

Emergency Services

Contact: Traffic Police
slovakia:
158
switzerland:
117
Contact: Roadside Assistance
slovakia:
Check with your insurance provider or Slovak Assistance Service
switzerland:
140
Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest
slovakia:
Mandatory
switzerland:
Not mandatory, but recommended

Penalties And Fines

Common Fines: Speeding
slovakia:
Varies; €50 to €300, points on license possible
switzerland:
Varies; CHF 40 to CHF 400+, can lead to license suspension
Common Fines: Seat Belts
slovakia:
€50 to €150, points in some regions
switzerland:
CHF 60
Common Fines: Phone Use
slovakia:
€100 to €200, points in some regions
switzerland:
CHF 100
Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation
slovakia:
€100 to €250, points on license possible
switzerland:
Varies; substantial fines
Payment: On The Spot
slovakia:
Common
switzerland:
Common; fines can be issued on the spot
Payment: Deadline
slovakia:
Varies; typically 15 days to pay
switzerland:
Varies; typically a few weeks to pay