Norway 

Driving in Norway

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

In 2005 there were 224 road deaths in Norway (source: DfT). This equates to 4.9 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 are great and driving takes longer than you think. Narrow and winding roads may be hazardous and impassable, especially in winter. Winter tyres are mandatory from approximately 1 November to 15 April (exact dates can vary year on year). You should keep headlights on at all times and observe speed limits, which are, in general significantly lower than in the UK. Fines for exceeding the speed limit are high. You should be aware that certain driving laws differ in Norway. For example, on roads which are not marked with a priority sign (a yellow diamond), drivers must give way to traffic coming from the right.

Alcohol limits for drivers are far stricter than UK levels. Roadside checks for alcohol are frequent, and submission to a breathalyser is mandatory. Penalties for driving under the influence are severe and can lead to a prison sentence. The 0.20ml limit means in effect no alcohol 12 hours before driving.

Road Hauliers

Since 1 November 2005, all vehicles with a maximum allowable total weight of over 3,500 kg are required to be equipped with snow chains when travelling in Norway. A truckers’ guide issued by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration can be found in English at Donna Diesel. It lists current regulations and useful information about driving in Norway