Since November 1, Switzerland has put an end to the paper driving license, which was nicknamed “blue” because of its color. Since this date, only credit card format licenses are authorized.
A period of tolerance
In detail, Switzerland has simply recorded the end of the validity of the paper license. As in France, this change was introduced to allow permits to correspond to new international and European safety standards. Theoretically, those who still only have a blue license risk a fine of 20 Swiss francs (21.58 euros), notes the RTS.
However, less than a month after the implementation of this measure, tolerance is still required. The police have increased the number of checks, but for the moment are content with a reminder of their obligations. “If we have an accident without a valid license, we will have to add it to the level of offenses,” however indicated Alexandre Brahier, spokesperson for the communications and public relations department of the Geneva police. Still several tens of thousands of Swiss would not have made the requested change.
Nothing changes for the French… or almost
In France, if the transition between the two formats is underway, the paper version, which is pink for us, remains valid until January 19, 2033. Will the change of format in Switzerland therefore impact French border residents? or travelers? For them, this novelty does not actually bring any change. “You can drive with your French license”, assures the French Public Services website. As a reminder, this permit is valid in all European countries, including Switzerland, whether for a short tourist stay or for cross-border workers who go to work in the country.
There are, however, two exceptions to this tolerance. The first concerns French people driving a vehicle registered in Switzerland requiring a category C or D license. Here, it is imperative to change their license, indicates West France.
This happens with the automobile department associated with the place where you work in Switzerland. Finally, the same goes for French people living in Switzerland for more than twelve consecutive months without having lived at least three months abroad.
