Sixt – Bern: 20% Promo offer

If your driving licence is issued in the EU/EEA, it is accepted throughout Switzerland without an international permit. For licences in non-Latin scripts (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Japanese), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your original licence. It's always a good idea to carry an IDP as a backup.

Airport rental offices in Bern often charge a premium of 10–20% due to airport surcharges. City-centre locations may offer better base rates but factor in the cost of getting there. Compare both options on Cars Scanner — sometimes free shuttle services from the airport make city pickups worthwhile.

Most rental companies in Bern offer a grace period of 30–59 minutes. Beyond that, you will be charged for an additional day. To avoid unexpected costs, plan your return time carefully. If you know you'll be late, contact the rental office — they may extend your booking at a lower rate than the late-return penalty.

The security deposit is typically released within 7–14 business days after you return the car, provided there is no damage. Some banks may take up to 30 days to process the refund. The deposit is a temporary hold on your credit card — the actual amount blocked depends on the vehicle class and insurance coverage chosen.

Key rules when driving in Switzerland:

• Drive on the right side of the road
• Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers
• Mobile phones may only be used hands-free
• Headlights must be on at all times in some areas
• Blood alcohol limit is typically 0.05% (stricter for new drivers)

Familiarise yourself with local signage and speed limits before setting off.

If you have an accident in Bern:

1. Ensure everyone's safety and call emergency services if needed (112 in Europe)
2. Document everything — take photos of damage, the scene, and other vehicles
3. Fill in the accident report form (usually found in the glove compartment)
4. Contact the rental company immediately
5. Do not admit fault or sign documents you don't understand

Your rental insurance will cover damages within the agreed terms.

Yes, most rental companies allow cross-border travel within the EU/Schengen area, though you typically need to declare this when booking. Some countries (e.g. Eastern Europe) may be excluded or require extra insurance. A cross-border fee of €30–100 may apply. Always inform the rental company of your travel plans to ensure you're fully covered.

Parking options in Bern include:

• Street parking — metered zones, typically €1–3/hour
• Public car parks — €5–20/day depending on location
• Hotel parking — often available for guests at €10–25/night

Always check signage carefully. Blue zones require a parking disc, and illegally parked cars may be towed. Many city centres have restricted access zones.

If you receive a traffic fine while driving in Switzerland, the rental company will typically forward it to you along with an administration fee (€20–50). Pay the fine promptly to avoid escalation. If you disagree, you can appeal through the issuing authority. Always photograph any unclear signage as evidence. Keep your rental agreement handy for reference.

The excess (or deductible) is the maximum amount you'd pay out of pocket if the car is damaged or stolen. In Switzerland, this typically ranges from €500 to €2,000 depending on the vehicle class. You can reduce or eliminate the excess by purchasing additional coverage such as Super CDW or booking full-coverage insurance through Cars Scanner.