How is a Swiss licence plate structured?

A licence plate combines a cantonal abbreviation (e.g. ZH for Zurich, BE for Bern, GE for Geneva) with 1 to 6 digits and uniquely identifies a registered vehicle. It is issued by the cantonal road traffic office; the abbreviation denotes the canton of registration — not necessarily the keeper’s place of residence. There are 26 cantons, each with its own abbreviation.

• Ordinary licence plates (assigned to the keeper).
• Dealer plates (U number) for the trade.
• Export plates (time-limited, for export).
• Day plates (valid short-term).
• Interchangeable plates (one plate set for two vehicles).
• Third (rear) licence plate for bicycle carriers.

Third licence plate for bicycle carriers introduced: Switzerland (As of: 2022-03-01)

A “personalised licence plate” is a self-chosen 6-digit number auctioned or sold by the cantons. The legal basis for the assignment of licence plates is set out in the Ordinance on the Admission of Persons and Vehicles to Road Traffic (VZV, SR 741.51).