Cross-border route

Switzerland Germany

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Switzerland into Germany, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Germany expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The A5 crosses at Basel, the main road gateway between Germany and Switzerland.

Get my permit for Germany Germany requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromSwitzerland

ToGermany

IDP in GermanyRequired

Accepted formatBoth

Driving sideright (no change)

Currency in GermanyEUR

Switzerland → Germany

Crossing the border

The A5 crosses at Basel, the main road gateway between Germany and Switzerland.

Driving rules in Germany

Autobahn: keep right except to overtake; some sections have no speed limit.
Winter tyres mandatory in wintry conditions.
Environmental (Umweltplakette) sticker required for low-emission city zones.
0.05% alcohol limit; zero for drivers under 21.

What to see when you arrive in Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle
the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
Cologne Cathedral
the Black Forest
Munich's Oktoberfest and Marienplatz

Common questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Switzerland to Germany?

Yes — Germany requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Germany recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.

Does the driving side change between Switzerland and Germany?

No. Both Switzerland and Germany drive on the right.

How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?

International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.

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