Driving in Iceland
Part of the article collection Driving in Scandinavia.
Curious about how to drive in Iceland? Take a look at these 6 tips about driving in Iceland so you know what to expect:
1. Important Basics for Driving in Iceland
In Iceland, you drive on the right. Numerous country roads only have a gravel surface, and seat belts and headlights are always a must. Many Icelandic car rental agencies do not allow rental cars on unsecured mountain/highland roads.
2. Speed Limits in Iceland
Icelandic speed limits are 50 km/h in towns (e.g. in Reykjavik), 80 km/h on gravel country roads, and 90 km/h is the limit on hard-surfaced roads.
3. Icelandic Safety Regulations
Put on seat belts and switch on the headlights, both are obligatory. Adjust your speed to the conditions of the gravel roads and move to the side . Note that driving off roads or marked tracks isn't allowed in Iceland, just like using cell phones while driving.
4. Alcohol While Driving
There might as well not be a word for "drunk driving" in Icelandic. The police heavily enforce alcohol-free driving, and you can quickly lose your license with a blood alcohol level of 0.5 promille.
5. Documents for Driving in Iceland
You will need your driving license, passport, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. Note that foreigners have to be 21 to rent a car (25 to rent off-road Jeeps) in Iceland.6. Emergency Assistance on the Road
In all parts of Iceland, call "112" to reach Iceland Police, as well as ambulances and fire department. In the Reykjavik area, "1770" calls a doctor to medical emergencies.
Go back to the main article Driving in Scandinavia to learn more about driving in the other countries.