QuizTraffic rulesSwitzerland

Test your knowledge with our multiple-choice quiz. Learn from each answer and improve your understanding of the traffic rules and road signs of Switzerland.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

201. What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

✓ Follow the temporary signs and merge safely when required.
Merge without checking if traffic is moving slowly.
Ignore the temporary signs if your lane is still open.
Follow construction vehicles through the closed lane.

Observe the temporary signs, adjust your speed, and merge safely according to the traffic situation and local rules.

Temporary traffic-lane closure ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What can selecting a lower gear provide in a manual vehicle?

202. What can selecting a lower gear provide in a manual vehicle?

Higher tyre pressure.
✓ Greater engine braking.
Automatic parking-brake operation.
A shorter steering ratio.

Selecting a suitable lower gear can increase engine braking, helping the vehicle slow or control its speed without relying entirely on the brakes.

Manual gear selection for engine braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

203. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Charging-system warning.
Oil-pressure warning.
Engine-temperature warning.
Brake-system warning.

This symbol indicates a problem with the vehicle's charging system. If it remains illuminated while the engine is running, the battery may not be charging correctly because of a fault with the alternator, battery, wiring, or related components.

Charging-system warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can loud music be dangerous while cycling?

204. Why can loud music be dangerous while cycling?

It reduces the grip of the tyres.
✓ You may not hear traffic or warning sounds.
It makes bicycle lights less effective.
It makes the bicycle harder to balance.

Hearing approaching vehicles, bells, horns, and other warning sounds is an important part of staying aware.

Cyclist listening to music near traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

205. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine-management warning.
Brake-system warning.
✓ Low tyre pressure.
Electronic stability control.

This symbol indicates that one or more tyres may have low pressure. Check the tyre pressures and inspect the tyres for damage or a puncture.

Tyre-pressure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can unnecessary weight affect a vehicle's energy use?

206. How can unnecessary weight affect a vehicle's energy use?

It always reduces fuel consumption.
It improves braking efficiency.
✓ It can increase the energy needed to move the vehicle.
It reduces aerodynamic drag.

Extra weight generally requires more energy when accelerating and climbing. Removing unnecessary heavy items can help reduce fuel or energy consumption while keeping all essential equipment in the vehicle.

Extra luggage adding weight to a vehicle
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What should you do if you see smoke or fire inside a tunnel?

207. What should you do if you see smoke or fire inside a tunnel?

Stay inside the vehicle and wait for the smoke to clear.
✓ Follow tunnel instructions and leave the tunnel if it is safe to do so.
Keep driving normally unless the tunnel is completely blocked.
Reverse toward the entrance without checking behind.

If it is safe to drive out of the tunnel, do so. If you cannot continue safely, stop, switch off the engine, leave the vehicle, and use the marked emergency exits or refuge routes. Follow tunnel-control instructions.

Smoke inside a road tunnel
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Are motorcycle riders generally required to wear a helmet in Switzerland?

208. Are motorcycle riders generally required to wear a helmet in Switzerland?

✓ Yes.
No.

Motorcycle riders in Switzerland are generally required to wear an approved helmet.

Motorcyclist wearing a protective helmet
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What is important when raising a vehicle with its jack?

209. What is important when raising a vehicle with its jack?

Work underneath if the jack appears stable.
Place the jack on soft ground to prevent floor damage.
Raise the vehicle before applying the parking brake.
✓ Use the correct jacking point and never go underneath a vehicle on a jack.

A jack can slip or fail if it is incorrectly positioned. Secure the vehicle and use additional approved supports before working underneath it.

Vehicle raised at a jacking point for a wheel change
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

210. Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

They can increase the motorcycle's braking power.
They can cause the tyre pressure to rise suddenly.
They can make the suspension become stiffer.
✓ They can provide much less grip than the surrounding road.

Wet metal surfaces, such as drain or inspection covers, can provide much less grip than the surrounding road. Cross them smoothly, keep the motorcycle as upright as practical and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering.

Wet metal cover in a motorcycle's path
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving near animals?

211. What should you do when driving near animals?

Sound your horn to make them move away.
Move closer so you can pass before they react.
✓ Slow down and be ready to stop.
Flash your headlights repeatedly to warn them.

Animals can move unpredictably. Slow down, stay alert, and be prepared to stop safely.

Animals near moving road traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the seat-belt height be adjusted correctly?

212. Why should the seat-belt height be adjusted correctly?

✓ To position the shoulder belt correctly across the body.
To increase the length of the lap belt.
To prevent the seat from moving.
To make the belt easier to unfasten.

The seat-belt height adjustment helps position the shoulder belt correctly across the chest and shoulder. It should not run across the neck or under the arm.

Height adjustment for the shoulder section of a seat belt
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the clutch pedal in a manual vehicle?

213. What is the purpose of the clutch pedal in a manual vehicle?

To apply the parking brake.
To slow the vehicle using the brakes.
✓ To disconnect the engine from the transmission.
To increase the engine speed.

Pressing the clutch pedal temporarily disconnects the engine from the transmission, allowing the driver to change gear or stop without stalling the engine.

Clutch pedal in a manual vehicle
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Why is counting drinks an unreliable way to decide whether you can drive?

214. Why is counting drinks an unreliable way to decide whether you can drive?

One drink affects every person in the same way.
✓ Drink strength, serving size, and individual effects can vary.
You can judge your alcohol level by how sober you feel.
The number of drinks matters more than their strength.

Alcohol concentration and serving sizes vary, and factors such as body size, food, medication, and time can affect impairment.

Alcoholic drinks with different strengths and serving sizes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

215. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Cruise control.
Engine-management warning.
Electronic stability control.
Speed limiter.

This symbol indicates the cruise-control system. Cruise control can maintain a selected vehicle speed without the driver continuously pressing the accelerator. The exact indicator behaviour can vary between vehicles.

Cruise-control indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How may drivers normally use a phone while driving in Switzerland?

216. How may drivers normally use a phone while driving in Switzerland?

Only for texting.
Either handheld or hands-free.
Handheld.
✓ Hands-free.

When phone use while driving is permitted in Switzerland, drivers must generally use a hands-free system rather than holding the phone.

Hands-free phone use inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving near a school area?

217. What should you do when driving near a school area?

Maintain your usual speed if the road looks clear.
✓ Slow down and watch carefully for children.
Drive close behind other vehicles to keep traffic moving.
Use your horn so children stay away from traffic.

Children near schools may cross unexpectedly or be hidden between parked vehicles. Reduce speed and be ready to stop.

Vehicle travelling near a school
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not use water on a fire involving live electrical equipment?

218. Why should you not use water on a fire involving live electrical equipment?

Water can make the electrical equipment restart.
Water makes electrical cables harder to disconnect.
✓ Water can conduct electricity and create an electric-shock hazard.
Water can cause the battery to charge more quickly.

Do not use water on a fire involving energised electrical equipment, because water can conduct electricity and create a serious electric-shock hazard. Keep clear, disconnect the power only if it is safe to do so, and call the emergency services. Use only a suitable fire extinguisher if it is safe and you know how to use it.

Fire involving live electrical equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a seat belt is frayed or damaged?

219. What should you do if a seat belt is frayed or damaged?

Use it normally if the buckle still locks.
✓ Have it inspected and replaced before relying on it.
Wear the belt loosely to reduce strain on it.
Twist the damaged section so it cannot tear further.

A damaged seat belt may not provide proper protection in a collision. Frayed webbing, damaged buckles, faulty retractors, or other defects should be professionally inspected and repaired or replaced before the seat belt is relied upon.

Frayed or damaged seat-belt webbing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the windscreen wipers leave the glass smeared?

220. What should you do if the windscreen wipers leave the glass smeared?

Apply lubricant to the wiper blades.
Ignore it unless the wipers stop moving.
Replace the washer pump instead of the blades.
✓ Clean the windscreen and blades, and replace worn blades.

Worn or dirty wiper blades can seriously reduce visibility in rain. Clean them first and replace them if they remain ineffective or damaged.

Wiper streaks on a vehicle's windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when construction vehicles enter or leave the road?

221. What should you do when construction vehicles enter or leave the road?

✓ Slow down and be prepared for them to move across your path.
Assume it will stop before entering your lane.
Use your horn so the driver waits for you.
Accelerate before the vehicle reaches the road.

Construction vehicles may move slowly, have limited visibility, or carry loose material. Give them time and space to manoeuvre.

Construction vehicle entering or leaving a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space when following a large vehicle?

222. Why should you leave extra space when following a large vehicle?

To make it easier for the large vehicle to accelerate.
✓ To improve your view ahead and give yourself more time to react.
To reduce the amount of fuel your vehicle uses.
To prevent the large vehicle from changing lanes.

A large vehicle can block your view of traffic, signs, junctions, or hazards ahead. Leaving extra space improves your view and gives you more time to react if traffic slows or a hazard develops.

Large vehicle limiting a following driver's view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you keep the driver's footwell free of loose objects?

223. Why should you keep the driver's footwell free of loose objects?

✓ They could roll into the pedals and interfere with control.
They could block the footwell ventilation.
They could make the pedals noisier to operate.
They could make it harder to adjust the driver's seat.

Loose objects in the driver's footwell, such as bottles, cans, or rubbish, can roll into the pedal area and interfere with the accelerator, brake, or clutch. Keep the footwell clear so you can operate the pedals safely and without obstruction.

Loose objects in the driver's footwell
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if spray from other vehicles makes it hard to see?

224. What should you do if spray from other vehicles makes it hard to see?

✓ Slow down and increase following distance.
Speed up to move out of the spray more quickly.
Change lanes immediately to find a clearer view.
Use main beam so the spray is easier to see through.

Spray can seriously reduce visibility. Slowing down and increasing your distance gives you more time and a clearer view.

Road spray from a vehicle ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

225. Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

Reversing can interfere with the tunnel lighting.
The tunnel may be too narrow for the vehicle to turn.
✓ It can cause a serious collision with approaching traffic.
Tunnel ventilation works only in the normal direction of travel.

Other drivers may not expect a vehicle to reverse or turn around. Only change direction when instructed by police or tunnel staff.

Vehicle manoeuvring inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

226. What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

✓ Reduce speed and increase your following distance.
Accelerate through the rain to clear it more quickly.
Use main beam to improve visibility.
Drive closer to the vehicle ahead for guidance.

Heavy rain reduces grip and visibility. Lower speed and extra distance give you more time to react safely.

Vehicle travelling through heavy rain
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used to drive the vehicle backwards?

227. Which selector position is used to drive the vehicle backwards?

N (Neutral).
P (Park).
D (Drive).
✓ R (Reverse).

Select R (Reverse) when you need to drive the vehicle backwards. The vehicle should be stationary before selecting Reverse.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do near a large vehicle that may be turning?

228. What should cyclists do near a large vehicle that may be turning?

Pass quickly before the vehicle starts turning.
Assume the driver will wait for you before turning.
✓ Stay back and do not pass on the turning side.
Ride beside it so the driver can see you.

Large vehicles need extra space to turn and may move across a cyclist's path. Remaining behind is usually safer.

Cyclist near a turning large vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the SET function of cruise control normally do?

229. What does the SET function of cruise control normally do?

✓ Stores the current speed as the cruising speed.
Returns to a previously stored speed.
Applies the brakes automatically.
Switches cruise control off.

The SET function normally stores the vehicle's current speed as the cruise-control speed. Use it only when the road, traffic, and driving conditions are suitable.

SET button for storing a cruising speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid wearing dark clothing at night?

230. Why should you avoid wearing dark clothing at night?

✓ Drivers may have difficulty seeing you.
Street lighting makes dark clothing easy to see.
Headlights make clothing colour unimportant.
Dark clothing reflects more light from vehicles.

Dark clothing makes pedestrians harder to see in low-light conditions. Bright or reflective clothing improves visibility.

Pedestrian wearing dark clothing at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before using a pedestrian crossing?

231. What should you do before using a pedestrian crossing?

Cross as soon as the nearest vehicle starts slowing down.
✓ Make sure it is safe to cross.
Check only the lane nearest to you before crossing.
Cross once a driver makes eye contact with you.

Even at a pedestrian crossing, make sure approaching drivers have seen you and are able to stop before you cross.

Pedestrian checking traffic before using a crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the parking brake before leaving a parked vehicle?

232. What should you do with the parking brake before leaving a parked vehicle?

✓ Apply it securely.
Apply it only on a slope.
Release it completely.
Leave it partly applied.

Before leaving a parked vehicle, apply the parking brake securely to help prevent unintended movement. Also select the appropriate gear or transmission position for parking.

Securing a parked vehicle with the parking brake
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid sudden braking when it is not necessary?

233. Why should you avoid sudden braking when it is not necessary?

It causes the tyres to lose pressure.
It prevents the brake lights from working properly.
It makes the steering less responsive afterwards.
✓ Vehicles behind may not have time to react.

Sudden braking can surprise drivers behind you and increase the risk of a rear-end collision.

Following traffic and the risk of sudden braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

234. How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

Press it as hard as possible immediately.
✓ Apply pressure progressively.
Use the parking brake instead.
Pump the pedal repeatedly.

For normal braking, apply the brake pedal progressively and smoothly. As the vehicle comes to a stop, easing the pressure slightly can help avoid a sudden jerk.

Progressive brake-pedal pressure for a smooth stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

235. How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

It affects reaction distance but not braking distance.
It affects braking distance only on wet roads.
It has no effect if the brakes are in good condition.
✓ It increases the distance needed to stop.

As speed increases, the vehicle travels farther while the driver reacts and requires more distance to brake. This means the total stopping distance increases significantly as speed rises.

Vehicle speed and the distance needed to stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

236. What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

✓ It switches the headlights on or off automatically when needed.
It switches on the front fog lights.
It keeps the main beam switched on.
It switches on the hazard warning lights.

The AUTO lighting setting allows the vehicle to switch its exterior lights on or off automatically according to ambient light conditions. The driver remains responsible for ensuring that the correct lights are being used.

AUTO setting on the vehicle's lighting control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

237. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Electronic stability control.
Power-steering warning.
Anti-lock braking system.
Low tyre pressure.

This symbol relates to the electronic stability control (ESC) system. It may flash when the system is actively helping to maintain stability. If it remains illuminated, the system may be switched off or have a fault.

Electronic stability control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

238. What should you do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

Start both vehicles before connecting the leads.
Connect the leads without checking their polarity.
Ignore battery damage if the terminals look clean.
✓ Check the owner's manual and make sure the connections are compatible.

Incorrect jump-starting can damage electrical systems, cause sparks, or make a battery explode. Connect the leads in the correct order before starting the vehicles, and follow the manufacturer's procedure exactly.

Preparing to jump-start a vehicle battery
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when meeting another vehicle on a narrow mountain road?

239. What should you do when meeting another vehicle on a narrow mountain road?

Move toward the centre so the other driver gives way.
Maintain speed and pass as closely as possible.
✓ Slow down and use a safe passing place if necessary.
Drive onto the roadside without checking the surface.

Narrow mountain roads may not provide enough space for two vehicles. Reduce speed and cooperate to pass safely.

Vehicles meeting on a narrow mountain road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid unnecessary lane changes in roadworks?

240. Why should you avoid unnecessary lane changes in roadworks?

Changing lanes helps traffic move faster through roadworks.
Lane changes are safer when traffic is moving slowly.
✓ Narrow lanes and changing layouts increase the risk of collision.
Drivers should always use the lane with fewer vehicles.

Frequent lane changes create additional risk where space is limited and drivers are already adapting to temporary layouts.

Vehicles travelling through restricted roadworks lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid sudden steering movements on snow or ice?

241. Why should you avoid sudden steering movements on snow or ice?

They increase fuel consumption.
They make the steering wheel harder to turn.
They reduce the effectiveness of the headlights.
✓ They can cause the tyres to lose grip and the vehicle to skid.

Abrupt steering can overwhelm the limited grip available on a slippery surface. Steering smoothly helps keep the vehicle stable.

Steering a vehicle on a snowy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist brake in an emergency?

242. How should a motorcyclist brake in an emergency?

✓ Apply both brakes firmly and progressively.
Grab the front brake as suddenly as possible.
Use only the rear brake.
Steer sharply while braking hard.

During emergency braking, use both brakes firmly and progressively while keeping the motorcycle as upright and stable as practical. Avoid sudden steering. If ABS is fitted, maintain firm braking pressure and allow the system to work.

Motorcyclist making an emergency stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

243. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine-management warning.
✓ Diesel particulate filter warning.
Charging-system warning.
Oil-pressure warning.

This symbol indicates a problem with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), often because soot has accumulated in the filter. The vehicle may require regeneration or professional inspection, depending on the vehicle and warning status.

Diesel particulate filter warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it dangerous to cross between parked cars?

244. Why is it dangerous to cross between parked cars?

You cannot hear approaching traffic between cars.
Parked cars make the crossing distance longer.
✓ Drivers may not see you or expect you to cross.
Traffic always moves faster beside parked cars.

Parked vehicles can block the view between pedestrians and drivers. This makes it harder to see approaching traffic and harder for drivers to see you.

Pedestrian crossing between parked cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

245. Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

The left foot.
The left foot for the brake and right foot for the accelerator.
Either foot.
✓ The right foot.

In a manual vehicle, the right foot normally operates both the brake and accelerator pedals, while the left foot operates the clutch.

Pedal arrangement and foot controls in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you take extra care if oil or diesel is spilled on the road?

246. Why should you take extra care if oil or diesel is spilled on the road?

✓ It can make the road extremely slippery.
It can make the brakes overheat.
It can damage road markings immediately.
It can make the road surface much softer.

Oil, diesel and other fluids can create a very slippery road surface, particularly for motorcycles and bicycles. Reduce speed, avoid sudden braking or steering and keep the vehicle as stable as possible when crossing a contaminated area.

Oil or diesel spilled on a road surface
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in Switzerland?

247. What is the general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in Switzerland?

1.0 mm.
2.0 mm.
✓ 1.6 mm.
1.5 mm.

The general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in Switzerland is 1.6 mm. Higher minimums may apply to winter tyres, during winter periods or in winter conditions.

Measuring tread depth on a vehicle tyre
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic ahead is blocking a junction?

248. What should you do if traffic ahead is blocking a junction?

Follow the vehicle ahead into the junction.
Use the horn so traffic ahead moves forward.
✓ Wait until there is enough space to clear the junction.
Enter the junction and wait for traffic to move.

Do not enter a junction if traffic ahead prevents you from clearing it safely. Waiting before the junction helps avoid blocking crossing traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, or other road users.

Queue of traffic blocking a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should luggage be carried on a bicycle?

249. How should luggage be carried on a bicycle?

On the rear carrier without securing it for a short trip.
✓ Securely, without affecting steering, braking, or balance.
On one side of the bicycle to leave the other side clear.
On one handlebar if the bag is not very heavy.

Loose or badly positioned luggage can interfere with control, become caught in the wheels, or hide bicycle lights.

Luggage carried on a bicycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

250. Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

They are recommendations rather than limits.
They apply only when traffic is congested.
They can be ignored when the road looks clear.
✓ They are used to protect people and manage hazards.

Temporary speed limits may be used near roadworks, accidents, events, or dangerous conditions. They help keep traffic safe.

Temporary speed-limit sign at roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA