Location markerSwitzerland
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Switzerland. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
53. Location marker
A location marker is a roadside reference showing a measured position along a road. It normally identifies a kilometre, mile or smaller interval measured from an established starting point on that route.
Kilometre and hectometre markers help road users, emergency services, road authorities and maintenance crews identify an exact section of road. They do not impose a speed limit, priority rule or access restriction.
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What does a roadside location marker tell you in Switzerland?
Swiss signs include kilometre and hectometre plates for motorways, semi-motorways and specified national roads outside built-up areas. Read the plate together with the road and travel direction when describing your position; the number is not a speed limit.
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: OSR89a(5),4.72-4.73; OCR18-19; practical location-reporting advice
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Traffic Rules Ordinance, state1October2026
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Road Traffic Act, state1July2026
How can a location marker help in an emergency in Switzerland?
If you can see a marker safely, give the emergency operator the route number or road name, travel direction and marker reading. Additional landmarks, exits and GPS position can help. Do not leave a safe place or enter traffic to read a post.
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: OSR89a(5),4.72-4.73; OCR18-19; practical location-reporting advice
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Traffic Rules Ordinance, state1October2026
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Road Traffic Act, state1July2026
Does a location marker set a speed limit or permit stopping in Switzerland?
No. A location marker is for orientation and road management; it does not itself set a speed limit, change priority or permit parking. Follow the actual traffic signs and stop only where the law and safety allow.
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: OSR89a(5),4.72-4.73; OCR18-19; practical location-reporting advice
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Traffic Rules Ordinance, state1October2026
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Road Traffic Act, state1July2026

Traffic rules
Switzerland