ITF and CEMT regulations Freight transport

ITF and CEMT permits

ITF stands for "International Transport Forum," the successor association to the European Conference of Ministers of Transport or CEMT. (more information on ITF)

The ITF has its own multilateral quota system of permits for road freight transport, known as CEMT permits. All member states of the ITF receive a quota of permits each year.

With a CEMT permit, transport companies can carry out international transport between ITF member states with their vehicles without the need for further authorization. However, a CEMT permit does not authorize domestic transport within an ITF member state or transport between an ITF member state and a non-ITF member state.  

Prerequisite for applying for a CEMT permit

On application, Liechtenstein carriers that hold a valid Euro license and meet the legal requirements can obtain a CEMT permit.

The permits are issued by the Office of National Economy. There is no legal entitlement to the issuance of permits. Permits are valid for one calendar year.

Companies must meet the following specific requirements, in addition to others listed in the Road Transportation Act:

• They must be in possession of a transport operator's permit issued at least five years prior to the date of application, the purpose of which must clearly relate to the performance of freight transport. During this period, the company must have effectively carried out the activity in accordance with the purpose.
• Within the last five years, no license withdrawal proceedings may have been carried out, nor may there have been any convictions for violations of the provisions of the Road Transport Act (STG).
• At least 80% of the company's employed drivers must be nationals of EEA states or Switzerland or have their residence in Liechtenstein.
• At least 70% of the company's heavy-duty vehicles must comply with the new EURO category.
• Proof of transports of 200,000 tonne-kilometers or 20 multilateral journeys per semester where the place of loading or unloading is in an ITF member state where the EURO license is not valid.

The requested need must be sufficiently justified and supported by documentary evidence, in particular contracts, order papers, disposition documents and CMR waybills.

Issuance of CEMT permits, costs

The issuing office is the Office of National Economy. The following fees are charged for the issuance of documents related to the permits:

• Per CEMT permit: CHF 900
• CEMT driving report booklet: CHF 50.-
• Vehicle confirmation: CHF 10.-
• Validation form: CHF 10.-