Driving in Iceland

Planning to drive in Iceland? Brilliant choice – there’s nothing quite like exploring at your own pace. But Iceland’s roads can surprise you, so let’s make sure you’re ready for whatever the situation throws at you.

 

Safe driving in Iceland

Before you set off, we'd love you to check out the 'How to drive in Iceland' brochure from the Road Traffic Directorate of Iceland. This will give you a good intro before taking the wheel.

One of the best resources to keep at your fingertips is safetravel.is, the official website for safe exploration in Iceland. And if you're planning to drive between October and April, read our special winter driving tips.

Road conditions

Weather here changes fast – like, really fast. Before any long drive, take a moment to check conditions at road.is. And remember, getting there is half the adventure, so build in plenty of time to stop for photos (trust us, you'll want to).

Want to talk to someone? You can speak with an operator from the Public Roads Administration if you dial 1777.
Or call us, we'll always there for you.

Driving licence requirements in Iceland

You'll need a valid driving licence that you've held for at least a year. And here's the age thing: 20 for regular cars, 23 for 4WDs.

Can you drive in Iceland with an international licence?

You'll need a valid driving licence that you've held for at least a year. And here's the age thing: 20 for regular cars, 23 for 4WDs.

Your rental car

We know collecting a rental car isn't the most exciting part of your trip, but taking five minutes here saves headaches later.

You'll be taken through your car rental agreement and vehicle insurance. Please read the waiver carefully and ask the rental agent about anything unclear before embarking on your journey.

Your rental car should be in good condition when you receive it. Make sure to check all lights, tyres and the spare tyre. Also be sure to test the radio before driving out of the car park. If you have any doubts about the car's functionality, please contact your rental agent directly.

Repairs or breakdowns

If any problems arise, including a flat tyre, contact the car rental agent for assistance right away. They will be able to arrange roadside assistance for you. And please be aware that we operate a 24/7 helpline if you need support, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

In case of smaller problems, like if your windscreen wipers stop working (possibly from insects or dirt), you can stop at a petrol station and ask the service staff to clean them or assist you.

The "Ring Road"

Route 1 – the actual name of the famous Ring Road - loops around the entire island for 1,328 kilometres (825 miles) of pure Icelandic scenery. Most of what you've pinned on your Iceland Pinterest board is right off this highway.

Driving laws

The essentials you need to know:
• We drive on the right-hand side of the road
• You'll need to keep your headlights at all times – yes, even in summer
• All passengers must wear seat belts, so remind them before you set off
• Talking on mobile phones while driving (except with headsets) is prohibited
• So is driving under the influence of alcohol, and it is punished with hefty fines

Speed limits and fines

The general speed limits are as follows:
• 50 km/h or less in urban/residential areas
• 80 km/h on gravel roads (we recommend slower speeds)
• 90 km/h on paved roads like the major highway, Route 1.

Although some roads may have special speed limits. Pay attention to these as fines for speeding are hefty in Iceland. It's also good to know that there are speed cameras posted around the country.

Rural road hazards

Many bridges in rural areas – even on the Ring Road – are only wide enough for 1 car. These single-lane bridges are called "einbreið brú". The car closest to the bridge gets the right of way.

Also, proceed with extra caution when approaching a blind hill ("blindhæð") or when the paved section of a road ends and transitions to gravel ("malbik endar").

Sheep 

Here's a fun fact: sheep outnumber humans in Iceland. Not-so-fun fact: they have zero road sense. Slow right down through farmland, and if they're blocking your way, a gentle honk usually gets them moving.

Road tunnels

You may encounter one-lane tunnels in remote, mountainous areas of Iceland. When driving through these tunnels, you might need to pull into the passing places (turnouts) at certain intervals to allow oncoming traffic to pass.

But how do you know who has the right of way? If the passing places are on your side (on the right) in the tunnel, you are obligated to pull over for oncoming cars. The length of the tunnels, in kilometres, is indicated by signs at tunnel entrances.

Good to know: there is only one tolled tunnel in Iceland – the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel. You'll find it near the town of Akureyri in North Iceland.

Highland and mountain roads

Highland roads are marked with an "F" and have a loose grave surface, which is only suitable for bigger 4WD vehicles. There are some mountain roads too that can be both paved and gravel. When they are connected to the Ring Road, they are usually better maintained.

On these roads, please drive with extra caution and pay special attention along the shoulder of the road. You must reduce your speed -- especially with oncoming traffic -- since these roads tend to be very narrow and often have very sharp winding turns.

Most highland ("F") roads are closed until the end of June or longer due to wet, muddy conditions that make the roads impassable.

Important note: Driving a regular-type rental car on prohibited highland roads can invalidate your rental insurance. Make sure to review the rules in your car rental contract. Some car rental agencies require extra insurance for travelling in the highlands.

Off-road driving

Those lava fields look tempting, we know. But Iceland's nature is fragile and takes decades to recover from tyre tracks. Stick to marked roads -- there's plenty to see without going rogue (and without getting a hefty fine).

Petrol/gas stations

Fuel is slightly cheaper at self-service stations such as ÓB, Orkan and Atlantsolía. They only accept card or smart phone payments (such as Apple Pay).

N1 is a chain of petrol stations with 98 locations throughout the country. Their locations typically also have kiosks selling food, beverages and other goods.

Self-service pumps are marked 'sjálfsafgreiðsla' and full-service pumps are marked 'full þjónusta'. Make sure to check which type of fuel your car requires (it is usually marked on the fuel cap) before filling the tank.

Opening hours vary throughout the country, but most petrol stations in Reykjavík area are open all day. Typically, the larger stations, like N1, will remain open for self-service after closing hours.

Running low on fuel? Don't panic, but do pay attention between Vík and Mývatn where stations are few and far between. Fill up when you can -- your future self will thank you.

Parking in Iceland

Few hotels in central Reykjavík offer overnight parking for their guests. But you'll find metered parking in many downtown areas. Parking garages are another option, they are marked with a "P".

Outside the capital, paying parking can be found at many popular natural attractions, particularly at major stops along the south coast like Þingvellir National Park, Reynisfjara and Jökulsárlón.

Parking fees often has to be paid on arrival, so make sure to check not to incur a late payment charge. You'll be able to use the Parka.app for many spots around Iceland (unless otherwise stated).

Paying car parks are always clearly marked, so make sure to check. Otherwise, do not create an obstruction and do not park on private land.

Parking fines

If you do not pay your parking fee, you may be given a fine. To avoid this, make sure to check out what you need to do at any car park around Iceland.

Ready to plan that road trip? Browse our self-drive tour packages and pick your adventure.