For many, the licence plate is simply a legal requirement on the car – nothing exciting, but necessary. But in more and more countries, this perception is changing: Licence plates are becoming genuine status symbols and are even surpassing cars themselves in prestige.
This trend is also noticeable in Europe. In Switzerland – especially in Zurich – low or distinctive plate numbers are increasingly seen as status objects. If you want to stand out, it’s no longer just about the car, but also about the plate that adorns it at the front and back.
What do the letters and numbers on the licence plate mean?
Swiss licence plates consist of two letters indicating the canton of registration – for example, ZH for Zurich or BE for Bern – followed by a number of up to six digits.
This number is a sequential registration number assigned by the respective canton. That’s why smaller cantons often have lower numbers – simply because fewer vehicles are registered there overall. The front plate is smaller and displays only the canton abbreviation and number. The rear plate is larger and additionally shows the Swiss cross and the coat of arms of the corresponding canton.
The background colour of licence plates in Switzerland is usually white but can also be red, green, or blue – each colour has its own specific meaning. You can read more about red licence plates in our blog article.
How do you get a low number?
A licence plate with a low number often tells a family story. It wasn't just bought – it’s been passed down through generations: from father, grandmother, and so on.
But even without a family connection, there are ways to get a low number. Highly sought-after plates can be found on cantonal auction platforms, private sale portals, or online marketplaces. However, it’s important to note: Sale and transfer are regulated at the cantonal level. What is permitted depends on your canton of residence and can vary.
This is also due to a unique aspect of the Swiss system: Licence plates are not tied to a specific vehicle but to a person. This means your plate stays with you, even when you change cars – and with Carvolution, you can even transfer it to your subscription vehicle, provided your canton allows it. You can check your eligibility here.
If your canton doesn’t allow a transfer? No problem. With a Carvolution car subscription, everything is included – even the licence plate. We’ll register a new plate for you and handle the entire process. No paperwork, no hassle – just get in and drive. And with a bit of luck, you might soon be cruising around with a number that turns heads.
Is the car as a prestige object a thing of the past?
In some countries – like Dubai – the answer is clear: It’s no longer the car itself, but the licence plate that serves as the ultimate status symbol. No surprise, considering some plates there cost more than the cars they’re mounted on. In 2023, plate "P7" was auctioned off for a staggering USD 15 million.
The trend is also beginning to emerge in Switzerland – albeit more modestly. While cars here are still often more expensive than the plate, early figures show growing interest. The most expensive Swiss licence plate to date, ZH 24, was auctioned for CHF 299,000.
Carvolution embodies this new mindset. As the car loses its role as a traditional status symbol, simple, individual mobility solutions with transparent costs and fair pricing are moving into focus.
With a Carvolution car subscription, this shift becomes reality. It’s not about ownership anymore – it’s about use. You get a car that fits your life, with no long-term obligations and no hidden costs. Everything’s included, and you always stay in control. Mobility has never been easier.
The best part? Our modern fleet offers a wide selection of up-to-date and stylish cars – the perfect stage for your licence plate to shine.
AG as in "Achtung Gefahr"?
As mentioned earlier, the letters on Swiss plates indicate the canton. But seasoned Swiss drivers know: AG doesn’t just stand for Aargau – it’s short for Achtung Gefahr ("Warning: Danger"). Other abbreviations follow a similar logic. BE? That’s Bruucht Ewig ("Takes Forever") – everything moves a little slower in Bern. GR stands for Gebirgs Raser ("Mountain Racers") speeding through alpine curves. And ZH? That’s Zwenig Hirni ("Not Much Brain") – but a whole lot of ego.
GL are Gottes Lieblinge ("God’s Favourites") – nothing ever seems to go wrong for them. ZG? Clearly Zviel Gäld ("Too Much Money"). And the TI? The Truurigi Italiener ("Sad Italians"), who sometimes feel stuck between two identities – not quite Swiss, not quite Italian.
No matter if you're a high-speed mountain racer, a wealthy ZG local or a relaxed Bernese soul – the Carvolution car subscription adapts to your lifestyle.
Have more questions? Feel free to book a consultation or browse our FAQs.
Car with all-inclusive subscription
Insurance, registration, taxes, and more – everything included. Around 40 models from various brands.
