Iceland 

Driving in Iceland

You should ensure that you have arranged appropriate vehicle insurance cover prior to travelling. A valid UK, or other EU/EEA driving licence is sufficient for driving in Iceland. There is no need for an International Driving Permit.

In 2005 there were 19 road deaths in Iceland (source: DfT). This equates to 6.5 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.5 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2005.

Distances between towns can be great, roads narrow and winding, and speed limits low. Driving takes longer than you think. Particular care needs to be taken on gravel and loose surfaces. Driving conditions may be hazardous and roads impassable, especially in winter. Winter tyres are mandatory from approximately 1 November to 14 April (exact dates can vary year on year). You should keep dipped headlights on at all times and observe speed limits, which are, in general, lower than in the UK. Fines for exceeding the speed limit are high.

Many highland tracks only open for a short part of the summer. If you intend to drive to the highland, or remoter regions of the country, you should always check first with the Icelandic Road Administration (Vegagerdin) before departure: Tel: +354 522 1000. Vegagerdin provides up to date information on all roads in the country and will also advise you on forecasted weather conditions and on off-road driving, which is strictly controlled. You should remain alert to the possibility of rapidly changing weather patterns, including river levels, which can change dramatically even within the same day.

Drink/drive laws are strictly enforced.

Take care to read the small print on car rental agreements to ensure that you fully understand which damages are and which damages are not covered by the Excess or Damage Waiver.