
Driving Regulations Iceland
Before you take to the road, make sure you know the rules.
Driving Papers
You must be over 18 to drive a car in Iceland and over 21 to rent a car Iceland. Depending on the type of vehicle you want to rent, further age restrictions may apply.
Visitors will need a current, valid EU/EEA driving license, which you have held for at least two years. Those who don’t have an EU/EEA driving license, will need a license issued in their country of residence. If it is not written in English you will need a notarized English translation of it.
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Insurance
A Green Card or other proof of third-party insurance is mandatory for motorists driving their own cars in Iceland, except from the following countries: Austria, Belgium, The Czech Republic, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Isle of Man, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The Vatican. Drivers without a Green Card (or equivalent) must buy a separate third-party insurance policy on arrival.
If you are renting a car in Iceland, Motor Vehicle Insurance is always included in your car rental quote, and usually includes Third Party Liability, Collision Damage Waiver (Damage to the rental car with an excess) and Theft Protection (with an excess). You also have the option to add further insurance.
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Road Regulations
- In Iceland we drive on the left and overtake on the right.
- International road signs and regulations apply.
- At four-way intersections, the right of way goes to the driver on the right; in traffic circles, cars in the inside lane have the right of way.
- It is illegal to turn right on a red light.
- Speed limits in towns are 30 – 50km/hr; on gravel tracks its up to 80km/hr and 90 km/hr on tarmac roads.
- Some roads are not open to the public – particularly in areas where flora and fauna are protected and can carry a fine. As a general rule, you must not drive off marked roads as it’s prohibited.
- You and your passengers must wear seat belts.
- Children under six must be secured in a special car seat designed for their height and weight.
- Drivers are responsible for any passenger under 15 who is not wearing a seatbelt.
- No one less than 140 centimeters tall, weighing less than 40 kilograms, or is under 12, is allowed to ride in a front seat equipped with an airbag.
- The use of mobile phones whilst driving is banned, although you can use a hands free set. Breaching this offence is subject to a fine of 5000 Icelandic Kronur.
- Icelandic law forbids any driving under the influence of alcohol. The minimum punishment for a first offense is a fine of 70,000 Icelandic Kronur and the loss of driving privileges for 2 months.
- When travelling outside the cities, your lights must be on; during the day and night in both winter and summer.
For further information, see our full series of articles on driving in Iceland below:
Driving Iceland:
- Renting a Car in Iceland
- Essential Tips for Driving in Iceland
- Driving Regulations Iceland
- Iceland Traffic Signs
- Driving on Mountain Tracks
- The Joys of Driving in Iceland
Drive Safely!
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