Portugal Speed Limit 2026: 120 km/h Motorways; Germany Advises 130

The speed limit in Portugal is 120 km/h on motorways, 90 on rural roads and 50 in towns, against Germany’s 50 and 100 with only a 130 km/h advisory on the Autobahn. Both set the alcohol limit at 0.05%. Portugal spreads most offences across one band, EUR 120-600, where Germany uses a catalogue with points, and some Portuguese motorways have no booths at all.

Portuguese limits and the German Autobahn

Where Portugal enforces 120 km/h, a German driver is used to no general limit and 130 as advice. Warning fines of EUR 5-55 (section 56 OWiG) can be paid on the spot in Germany.

Alcohol limit and the EUR 120-600 band

Both countries set 0.05%. Portugal fines a handheld phone, a missing seatbelt and a red light all at EUR 120-600; Germany charges EUR 100 and a point for a phone, EUR 30 for no seatbelt and EUR 90 for a red light within one second.

Using your own licence abroad: the rules

Portugal recommends an IDP. Non-residents may use IDP or convention licences for 185 days (art. 125(3)), and OECD licences such as US ones are valid alone if issued or renewed less than 15 years ago and the holder is under 60. Germany lists an IDP or translation as required for non-EU licences (FeV section 29).

Paying a speeding fine as a visitor

Portuguese fines run EUR 60-300 at about 10 km/h over, EUR 120-600 at 20 over and EUR 300-1,500 plus a suspension at 30 over; fines are mailed, cameras tolerate about 5 km/h and cross-border collection applies. Germany’s catalogue starts at EUR 20-30 and its cameras tolerate about 3 km/h.

Winter equipment: tyres, chains and kit

Portugal has no winter-tyre rule and prohibits studs. Germany requires winter tyres in ice, snow, slush or black ice and accepts only 3PMSF since 1 October 2024 (from EUR 60 plus a point). A warning triangle and reflective vest are compulsory in both; Germany also requires a first-aid kit.

Emergency numbers and electronic tolls

Portugal answers every service on 112; Germany on 112 and 110 as the police line. Portuguese electronic-only motorways need Via Verde or a temporary toll card from post offices or border shops, with a fine of EUR 25-250 for non-payment; Lisbon to Porto is about EUR 25. The Algarve A22 no longer charges a toll. German motorways are free for cars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all Portuguese motorways tolled with booths?

No. Some are electronic-only, so tourists need Via Verde or a temporary toll card from post offices or border shops.

What if I drive an electronic motorway without paying in Portugal?

A fine of EUR 25-250.

Is the A22 Via do Infante still tolled?

No, it no longer charges a toll.

How long can I use a US licence in Portugal?

A US licence is valid alone if issued or renewed less than 15 years ago and the holder is under 60 (art. 125(1)(c)); IDP and convention licences are valid for 185 days.

Is the 120 km/h limit in Portugal enforced?

Yes: it is a legal limit, enforced with cameras that tolerate about 5 km/h.