Becoming a heavy goods driver in Switzerland

The sector

• 40,000 heavy goods drivers active in Switzerland
• Shortage: 10,000+ positions permanently open
• Players: DHL, Planzer, Galliker, Camion Transport, SBB Cargo
• Driver CLA: protected minimums

Licences and training

• C licence (HGV > 3.5t): medical + theoretical + practical test
• CE licence (articulated): extension
• ADR (hazardous materials): 5 days, valid 5 years
• OACP: mandatory continuing education (35h/5 years)
• Total cost C + ADR licence: CHF 5,000-12,000

Salaries

• Starting C driver: CHF 4,800-5,800/month
• Experienced driver: CHF 5,500-7,000/month
• CE + ADR driver: CHF 6,200-7,800/month
• International (overnight): CHF 7,000-9,000/month with per diem
• Specialised cabotage driver: CHF 7,500-10,000/month

Conditions

• Minimum age: 18 for C, 21 for CE
• Criminal record: clean required
• Medical fitness: ophthalmologic, cardiac exam
• Valid Swiss or European B licence

Tips

• CFC heavy vehicle driver apprenticeship: subsidised route
• Truck driving school in your canton: ORP funding searches possible
• DHL, Planzer: train drivers
• Specialise in ADR: +15-20% immediate salary
• German recommended: for German-speaking Switzerland
• Family life: reconcile with hours (very early often)