Finland Drives on the Right (2026): 120 km/h, 0.05% BAC, Winter Tyres

Does Finland drive on the left or right? On the right, exactly as the United States does, so nothing flips at the wheel. What changes is a motorway limit of 120 km/h where US states set their own (typically 65-75 mph), an alcohol limit of 0.05% against 0.08%, and fines in euro that are fixed for the first 20 km/h over and income-based above that.

Finland’s speed limits against American state limits

Drivers in Finland meet 50 km/h limits in built-up areas, 80 between towns and 120 on the motorway. The US has no national limit: typically 25-35 mph residential, 55 mph rural and 65-75 mph on interstates.

Alcohol at the wheel and phone penalties

Finland’s 0.05% is stricter than the US 0.08%. A handheld phone costs a fixed EUR 100 and no seatbelt EUR 70, while a red light draws an income-based day-fine. Age limits differ: 18 (Finland) against 16 (the US).

Carrying a permit: what each country asks

An international driving permit is recommended for non-EU visitors, and a foreign licence is recorded as valid for 12 months. In the US the permit is recommended and most states accept a foreign licence plus an IDP for up to three months.

Speeding ticket in Finland: fixed fee, then day-fines

The fixed fee at up to 10 km/h over is EUR 70 where the limit is above 60 and EUR 100 where it is 60 or below, rising to EUR 170 or EUR 200 at 16-20 over; above 20 over the fine is an income-based day-fine. Tourists get fixed fines instead of income-based ones, cameras cover the main roads widely and tolerate about 3 km/h, and fines are collected on the spot.

Cold-weather tyres and what to carry

Winter tyres are expected from November to March when weather or road conditions require, marked 3PMSF with at least 3 mm of winter tread; studs are allowed and all-season tyres are not accepted. A warning triangle is compulsory.

Emergency numbers

Finland uses 112 for every service; the US uses 911. Finnish roads carry no tolls for cars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all-season tyres accepted in Finland in winter?

No. Winter conditions call for winter tyres with 3PMSF marking and at least 3 mm of tread.

How does Finland charge speeding fines to tourists?

As fixed fines rather than income-based day-fines.

Above what overshoot does Finland use day-fines?

Above 20 km/h over the limit.

Does Finland drive on the left or right?

On the right, like the US.

Are studded tyres allowed in Finland?

Yes.