Can I use driving licence as ID verification with Swiss Travel Pass?
Maggie is visiting Switzerland for over three weeks, starting in Geneva and traveling by train to end in Zurich, with plans to experience day trips and enjoy the Wagner Ring Cycle. She's seeking advice on whether she needs to show her passport or if her Australian driver’s license would be acceptable when traveling with her Swiss Travel Pass.
- Always carry your passport when traveling with the Swiss Travel Pass to avoid issues with ticket inspectors.
- If you prefer not to carry your passport, some conductors might accept an Australian driver's license, but this is not guaranteed.
- It's advisable to keep a copy of your passport either digitally or on paper as a backup when you travel.
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Hi All
I arrive in Switzerland this coming Friday for a stay of just over 3 weeks, starting in Geneva where I’ll do some day trips, then travelling by train including three of the panoramic expresses: Golden Pass, Glacier and Bernina to end up in Zurich for a full Wagner Ring Cycle. So mix of great sightseeing and great culture .
Thank you to various people who responded re my Swiss Travel Pass ‘problem’ (https://www.myswissalps.com/community/thread/when-to-buy-swiss-travel-pass-2/) – I thought I hadn’t received it. Yes I did promptly receive the relevant email and link. I was expecting an email with a PDF attachment. I was a bit slow on the uptake of how the pass works …
My current question: do I need to be able to produce my passport for ID when travelling on the Swiss Travel Pass? Or would my Australian driver’s licence – which has my name, photo and birthdate plus Australian address on it – be accepted?
I don’t like carrying my passport on a daily basis other than in a body belt when I am travelling.
Thank you
Maggie
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My understanding is that it’s passport only. Drivers license is not accepted. There have been times when I was asked for ID to verify my travel pass and the conductor specifically wanted a passport.
Hi Maggie,
I understand your concern. The information on your ID document must match the details on your Swiss Travel Pass (name and date of birth). A passport is recommended but if you don’t have it on you when you travel, you can use your driving license. But just be aware that not all ticket inspectors are lenient and some will strictly ask for your passports.
Regards,
Anna
Hi Maggie. To be on the safe side, you can best use your body belt and carry your passport with you on all of your day trips. I’d say I’m asked for my ID in about 10% of the ticket checks on board trains, buses and boats, and some inspectors are strict in this.
I also plan to use my Australian licence, as I don’t feel at all comfortable on a day trip carrying my passport.
I will have a printout of the passport, plus I have a copy on my phone, and my original licence.
A lot of people have posted that that is fine, and I emailed SBB and they said it was fine too.
Thanks DebH,
I agree, it’s an uncomfortable feeling to be carrying a passport when on holidays.
Though, as mentioned, it really depends on the ticket inspector. Some are definitely more strict than others.
Kind regards,
Yolanda
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