Certified Translation of Driving Licences
If you need to use a foreign driving licence in Switzerland, a certified translation may be requested for a licence exchange or another administrative procedure. Traducta Switzerland provides accurate translations of driving licences in numerous language combinations and can arrange a notarially certified translation for use in Switzerland where required.
The exact requirements depend on the competent cantonal road traffic authority, the country that issued the licence and the purpose for which the translation is needed.
Reminder!
A driving licence is an official document confirming your driving entitlement. When a foreign licence is used in Switzerland, a translation may be required so that categories, validity periods and issuing details can be assessed correctly.
The exact requirements depend on the competent cantonal road traffic authority, the issuing country and the procedure involved. Traducta provides accurate driving licence translations and can arrange the appropriate certification where required.
How can you obtain your certified driving licence translation?
01
Submit your request for a certified translation
Choose the type of document and fill in the online form (contact details, languages, files, etc.).
02
Receive your personalised quote
Within a few hours, you’ll receive a detailed, no-obligation proposal with a secure link to confirm your order.
03
Get your driving licence translated
Receive your certified translation in PDF format, along with the original version sent by post.
Your certified translation project starts here
Examples of driving licences we translate
Traducta provides professional translations of driving licences issued in countries around the world. A translation may be required for a licence exchange, administrative procedure or verification by a Swiss authority, depending on the country of issue and the language of the original document.
Below are examples of driving licences that may be translated for official use in Switzerland:
| Type of Driving Licence: | Typical Use in Switzerland: |
|---|---|
| EU/EFTA Driving Licence | May be required for licence exchange or other procedures with the competent cantonal road traffic authority |
| Non-EU/EFTA Driving Licence | Translation may be requested when exchanging or verifying a foreign driving licence in Switzerland |
| International Driving Permit (IDP) | Used together with the corresponding national driving licence in certain circumstances |
| Old-format Paper Licence | A translation may be useful or required when licence details are not readily understandable |
| Photocard Driving Licence | Common modern format; translation requirements depend on the issuing country, language and procedure |
| Professional Driving Licence | May require translation of categories, restrictions or professional driving entitlements |
| Motorcycle Licence | Translation may be required when assessing or exchanging motorcycle licence categories |
| Temporary or Provisional Licence | Acceptance and translation requirements depend on the issuing country and the competent Swiss authority |
Examples of languages for certified translations
Traducta offers certified translations in a wide range of languages. Here are some of the most frequently requested languages:
- Arabic
- Chinese
- Danish
- Dutch
- English
- German
- Greek
- Italian
- Japanese
- Portuguese
- Russian
- Spanish
- Turkish
- Ukrainian
Suitable for licence exchange and official procedures
A driving licence contains specific information such as licence categories, restrictions, validity dates and issuing-authority details, all of which must be reproduced accurately in the translation.
Traducta translates these details carefully and, when required for a procedure in Switzerland, can arrange the appropriate notarial certification. Before ordering, we recommend checking with the competent authority which form of translation or certification is required.
Secure handling of personal information
As identity-related documents, driving licences include sensitive personal data. All files are processed in a secure environment with restricted access.
Your information is handled with care and confidentiality, ensuring it remains protected throughout the translation process.
Clear and structured translation of licence data
Driving licences contain specific fields such as categories, issue dates, restrictions, and issuing authorities. These details must be translated precisely and presented in a clear structure.
We ensure that every official driving licence translation reflects the original document faithfully, so that authorities can easily verify your driving rights without ambiguity.
FAQ – Driving Licence Translation for Switzerland
Do I need a certified translation of my driving licence in Switzerland?
In many cases, yes. A certified translation is required when exchanging a foreign licence, registering with authorities, or proving your driving qualifications.
Can I drive in Switzerland without translating my licence?
Depending on your country of origin, you may drive for a limited period. However, for official procedures (exchange, registration), a certified translation of your driving licence is often required.
What information is included in the translation?
The translation covers all essential data: licence categories, dates, issuing authority, restrictions, and personal details.
How long does it take?
The turnaround time depends on the language combination, format of the driving licence and certification requirements. After reviewing a clear copy of your licence, we will provide the expected delivery time together with your quotation.
How do I send my driving licence?
You can send a scan or photo via secure upload or email.
A clear image is usually sufficient to receive a quote.
How much does a driving licence translation cost?
For a notarially certified translation intended for use in Switzerland, the minimum price is CHF 140 plus VAT, including shipping costs. The final price depends on the language combination and the document itself.
Will I receive an invoice?
Yes. You will receive a detailed and compliant invoice for your records.