In this paper, a switching optimal adaptive controller for tracking a time‐dependent trajectory in finite‐dimensional closed quantum systems is proposed. The issue of intrinsic singularities in trajectory tracking control of quantum systems leads to a sharp rise in the control amplitude. To overcome this drawback, a switching optimal adaptive quantum controller is designed based on Lyapunov stability theory and optimal quantum control approach. A state‐dependent strategy is considered to select the switching signal. The new switching controller adjusts the quantum state so that its population traces the desired dynamic trajectory and simultaneously eliminates the effects of singularities and reduces the control amplitude. The proposed controller is tested successfully for population transfer in a 4‐level closed quantum system in a simulation experiment. Both issues of reduction of the tracking error and control intensity along with a significant decrease in the number of singular points are well illustrated by simulation experiment as the advantages of the proposed method.