OvertakingSwitzerland
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.
31. Overtaking
Overtaking is the act of passing another road user travelling in the same direction. It normally involves moving to another position or lane, passing the slower road user and returning to the appropriate position when it is safe.
Before overtaking, a driver should make sure there is sufficient visibility and space, check mirrors and blind spots, signal when required and ensure that no other road user is already overtaking. The manoeuvre must be completed without exceeding the speed limit or endangering other road users.
Wikimedia.org • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
On which side do drivers normally overtake in Switzerland?
As traffic normally keeps right, drivers ordinarily overtake on the left. This is the general rule, not permission to pass wherever a lane is available; exceptions and restrictions depend on the local law.
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: LCR32,34-35; OCR7-11
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Traffic Rules Ordinance, state1October2026
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Road Traffic Act, state1July2026
When should you avoid overtaking in Switzerland?
Do not begin if approaching traffic, restricted visibility, road markings, an intersection, a crossing or another road user makes the manoeuvre unsafe or unlawful. Check behind and ahead, allow enough space and never exceed the speed limit to complete the pass.
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: LCR32,34-35; OCR7-11
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Traffic Rules Ordinance, state1October2026
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Road Traffic Act, state1July2026
What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in Switzerland?
Give generous lateral clearance when passing cyclists and pedestrians, and allow for unexpected changes of direction. National rules may prescribe a minimum passing distance in particular situations. If there is insufficient space, wait rather than squeeze through.
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: LCR32,34-35; OCR7-11
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Traffic Rules Ordinance, state1October2026
🔗 fedlex.admin.ch • Switzerland: Road Traffic Act, state1July2026

Traffic rules
Switzerland