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The international driving licence serves as a translation of the national licence for driving abroad. It is valid only in conjunction with your national driving licence. You must therefore always present both valid documents at the same time.

If you have a Swiss driving licence

An international driving licence is recommended for driving in all countries outside the EU and EFTA. Some countries and many car rental services even require it.
Before travelling abroad, check with your travel agent, the relevant consulate or a road transport association to find out what travel documents you need for the country in question.
For driving in EU and EFTA countries, a Swiss credit-card format driving licence is sufficient. If you still have an old blue licence, you can easily replace it with a new one from your cantonal vehicle licensing office.

Si vous avez un permis de conduire étranger

Si vous vivez à l’étranger, vous avez besoin d’un permis international pour conduire en Suisse seulement si votre permis de conduire étranger ne mentionne pas en caractères latins les catégories de véhicules autorisés.

You can order an international driving licence from the vehicle licensing office in the canton where you live.

In some cantons, you can also contact the Automobile Club de Suisse or the Touring Club Suisse. These associations can also provide information on the documents required.

The international driving licence is valid for three years, but not beyond the expiry date of the national driving licence.
You cannot have your international driving licence extended, but you can order a new one if it expires.
The price of a Swiss international driving licence varies from canton to canton. You should expect to pay a few dozen francs.