Switzerland is considering a major change to its vehicle license plates due to a shortage of available number combinations in densely populated cantons like Zurich.

The Federal Roads Office (Astra) is exploring the introduction of personalized "vanity plates," which would allow vehicle owners to choose their own combination of letters and numbers.

This proposal, championed by Lega National Councilor Lorenzo Quadri, aims to address the impending scarcity of traditional plates.

While personalized plates are popular in countries like Germany and Belgium, Switzerland plans to implement strict rules, such as prohibiting offensive language and requiring the inclusion of the canton abbreviation.

The potential introduction of these plates by 2027 could generate significant revenue for the cantons, as seen in other countries where such plates are already in use.

The move reflects a growing enthusiasm for unique license plates in Switzerland, highlighted by recent high-value auctions of traditional plates.