Riding a speed pedelec (45 km/h) in Switzerland requires two essential things: registration (license plate) and liability insurance linked to the plate . Without these, you are not allowed to ride, even if your bike is new and "ready to ride".
This guide explains the steps to obtain your registration plate , take out the right insurance , prepare the documents , renew the annual sticker , and manage a change of ownership .
Why are registration and insurance mandatory?
A speed pedelec is classified differently from a 25 km/h e-bike: it provides assistance up to 45 km/h, which entails additional requirements (including a yellow license plate , helmet , speedometer , and a minimum driving license). The official rules to be aware of are summarized on the page Specific Rules of the Federal Roads Office (ASTRA) – slow and fast e-bikes .
The complete process (vehicle registration document, license plate, sticker): step by step
Step 1: Check that your bike is indeed a “speed pedelec 45”
Before proceeding, confirm that your bicycle is indeed certified as a speed pedelec (45 km/h) and that it meets the requirements for this category (particularly regarding equipment and compliance). In practice, this is reflected in the documents provided and the vehicle category.
Important point: a 25 km/h e-bike does not require a license plate. A speed bike does.
Step 2: Retrieve the vehicle registration document and the sales documents
To register a speed bike, you will need the registration certificate (often called “registration card” in common parlance) and proof of ownership (invoice / sales contract as appropriate).
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Buying new: the seller usually provides the registration certificate (and sometimes manages part of the process).
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Buying second-hand: make sure you obtain the original registration certificate and a clear proof of transfer/sale.
Step 3: Take out the mandatory insurance (third-party liability insurance linked to the license plate)
For a speed bike 45 km/h, the expected insurance is a specific civil liability linked to the control plate (this is not the same logic as a simple “bike” insured via household).
The TCS guide on e-bikes at 45 km/h explains the “license plate + sticker” principle and what this implies in terms of insurance and traffic.
Step 4: Apply for registration with your canton
Vehicle registration is done at the road traffic office of your canton of residence (names vary: SAN, Motor Vehicle Department, etc.). The procedures are cantonal, but the process is very similar everywhere.
Generally, you send or drop off:
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the registration application (cantonal form),
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the original vehicle registration document ,
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an identity document ,
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your driving licence (often required for category 45),
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and, if the holder is a company, a document from the trade register (as appropriate).
Once your request has been processed, you will receive:
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the control plate (yellow plate) ,
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the insurance sticker to be affixed to the license plate,
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and the updated vehicle registration certificate (if change of owner / first registration).
Simple rule: as long as the license plate is not fixed to the bike, you must not ride with it.
Cantonal procedures: documents and deadlines (what to expect)
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Many cantons accept applications at the counter and often also by mail (sometimes online depending on the service).
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Processing times vary depending on the workload of the office and the completeness of the file.
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If a document is missing (original vehicle registration document, identity document, etc.), the application may be blocked.
Tip: Prepare a “zero friction” file from the start (originals + clean copies, consistent information, signature if necessary).
Annual road tax sticker: cost, renewal and "out of circulation"
The sticker proves that the liability insurance linked to the license plate is valid and must be renewed annually . In practice, you usually receive an invoice/notice, and renewal is completed by paying on time.
If you no longer use the speed bike:
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Do not let the vignette expire "by oversight" if you intend to drive.
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and, if you really stop using it, follow the cantonal logic (do not renew and consider the vehicle out of circulation).
Change of ownership: what exactly needs to be done?
During a sale/transfer:
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The seller gives the buyer the original registration certificate and a sales/transfer document .
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The buyer updates the vehicle registration certificate with the cantonal office, takes out insurance linked to the plate, and obtains the plate/sticker according to the procedure.
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The exact fees and procedures (and plate management) depend on the canton, but the idea is always: holder update + insurance coverage + valid plate/sticker .
Types of insurance and coverage: what to compare
When you compare "speed bike / moped" insurance policies:
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Check that the mandatory third-party liability insurance is included and matches the license plate.
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Look at the useful options: flight, comprehensive/partial, breakdown assistance, etc.
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Assess your actual risk: outdoor parking, value of the bicycle, frequency of use.
Common mistakes to avoid
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Driving “just to test” without a fixed license plate.
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To think that household/private liability insurance replaces the mandatory liability insurance linked to the license plate.
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Forget about renewing your annual sticker.
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Buying second-hand without obtaining the original vehicle registration document.
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Neglecting equipment requirements (helmet, speedometer, etc.) associated with the category.
Simple alternative: avoid registration and paperwork with a 25 km/h e-bike
If you want a simpler experience (without a license plate), a 25 km/h e-bike is often better suited for city riding and mixed routes. Two popular options at BatooBike:
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The NCM Milano Plus , appreciated for its comfort and autonomy in daily use.
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The NCM Moscow Plus is more versatile if you alternate between roads and trails.
FAQ - Speed bike registration and insurance
How do I get a license plate?
You submit an application to the road traffic office in your canton, along with the vehicle registration certificate (V5C) and the required documents. Once the license plate has been received and affixed, you can drive.
Where can I purchase the mandatory insurance?
With an insurer offering third-party liability insurance for speed pedelecs/mopeds up to 45 km/h. The annual sticker linked to the license plate serves as proof of insurance.
What documents are required (sale, permit)?
Generally: registration application, original vehicle registration certificate, proof of identity, and often a driver's license (appropriate category). For a business: extract from the commercial register, as applicable.
What is the annual cost and how do I renew the sticker?
The cost depends on the insurer and the canton. The vignette is renewed annually (often via a renewal invoice/notice that must be paid on time).
What to do in case of a change of ownership?
The buyer must update the holder on the vehicle registration document with the canton, take out insurance linked to the plate and obtain a valid vignette/plate according to the cantonal procedure.
