Seat belts and child seats in Switzerland (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: Swiss rules require seat belts to be worn where fitted. Children under 12 need an approved child restraint on belted seats, unless they are at least 150 cm tall or an exception applies. The fixed penalty is CHF 60.

RuleWhat applies
Seat belt compulsory in front seatsPassenger carsYes [1]
Seat belt compulsory in rear seatsPassenger carsYes [1]
Child restraint required untilPassenger carsChildren under 12 must use a suitable child restraint (for example a child seat) approved under UNECE Regulation 44 or 129 on seats with belts. Not required for children at least 150 cm tall, for children from age 4 on seats specially approved for children or in coaches, or for children from age 7 on seats with lap belts. [1]
Children in the front seatPassenger carsThe child restraint duty applies on every seat that has belts. [1]
Rear-facing child seat in front with active airbagPassenger cars⚠ Not yet verified
Fine for not wearing a seat beltPassenger carsFixed penalty of CHF 60 for a driver not wearing a belt, CHF 60 for carrying an unsecured child under 12, and CHF 60 for a passenger not wearing a belt. [2]

Notes

  • Applies in vehicles fitted with belts, with exceptions listed in Art. 3a para. 2 (for example a medical certificate).
  • The article read does not mention airbags, and no other source was read on this point.

Sources

  1. Der Bundesrat: Verkehrsregelnverordnung (VRV), SR 741.11 (Stand 1. Oktober 2026) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Der Bundesrat: Ordnungsbussenverordnung (OBV), SR 741.031 (Stand 1. August 2026) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.