Greece vs Japan: Driving Rules Compared

Greece’s motorways reach 130 km/h, well above the 100 km/h standard on Japan’s expressways. Inside town, the gap narrows unexpectedly: Greek urban streets cap at just 30 km/h against 40 km/h in Japan. Steering position differs too, Greece drives on the right while Japan keeps left.

Greece drives on the right while Japan drives on the left. This is one of the most significant adjustments drivers must make when travelling between these two countries. Take extra care at junctions, roundabouts, and when overtaking.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits differ between Greece and Japan, and understanding these differences is essential for avoiding fines.

Greece sets its speed limits at 30 km/h in cities and towns, 90 km/h on country roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

In Japan, the standard speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas, 60 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h) on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Greece and Japan. Relying on your knowledge of one country’s limits while driving in the other is a common cause of speeding fines for tourists.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Greece and Japan have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Greece drives on the right; Japan drives on the left. This is a major difference that requires careful adjustment.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 17 in Greece and 18 in Japan.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Greece, the penalty is EUR 100. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 18,000 (approx. EUR 115) + 3 points. Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Greece and Japan. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is EUR 350 in Greece and Warning / 1 point (no fine for first offence) in Japan.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Greece, expect EUR 700 + licence suspension 60 days. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 2 points.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Drink-driving laws represent one of the areas where countries diverge most significantly.

Greece sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.05%.

Japan has a BAC limit of 0.03%.

The lower limit in Japan means that even a small amount of alcohol could put you over the legal limit. Adjust your behaviour accordingly.

Penalties for exceeding the BAC limit in both Greece and Japan can include heavy fines, licence suspension, and even imprisonment. Novice drivers face even stricter thresholds in many countries. The safest policy is to not drink at all when you plan to drive.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Tyre regulations and mandatory vehicle equipment differ between Greece and Japan, and non-compliance can result in fines, especially during winter.

Winter Tyres

• Greece: Winter tyres are not_required. Studded tyres: unknown. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Japan: Winter tyres are situational. Period: Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter. Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

Rental vehicles usually come equipped for the country of hire. If you intend to drive in both Greece and Japan, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Greece and Japan.

In Greece, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 40. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Japan, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 1 point. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

Licence requirements for foreign visitors differ between {a} and {b}. Here is what you need to know.

Greece: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. IDP required for non-Latin-script licences.

Japan: An IDP is required. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence IDP required (1949 Geneva Convention only). US, UK and many EU licences need specific IDP. Drives on the left.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency while driving, it is essential to know the local numbers:

Save these numbers in your phone before travelling. In an emergency, quick access to the correct number is crucial.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

If you are planning to drive in both Greece and Japan, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

1. Learn key phrases. If you do not speak the local language, learn basic driving-related phrases. In an emergency, being able to communicate with police or paramedics can be invaluable.

2. Carry the right documents. Ensure you have your driving licence, IDP (if needed), vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Some countries require you to carry these at all times.

3. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

4. Research before you go. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules of each country before your trip. Print or save a summary of key rules for quick reference.

5. Check insurance coverage. Verify that your motor insurance or rental agreement covers driving in both countries. A Green Card may be required for cross-border travel.

6. Use a GPS or navigation app. Modern navigation apps often include speed limit warnings, toll information, and real-time traffic updates that can help you comply with local rules.

7. Adjust to speed limits immediately. When crossing the border, speed limits change. Look for signs and adjust your driving accordingly. Do not rely on habits from the other country.

8. Plan fuel stops. Fuel prices and station availability can vary significantly. In some regions, stations may close at night or on Sundays.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

For most international tourists, the overall driving experience will vary based on road conditions, signage clarity, and traffic density.

Tourist reviews give Greece a driving ease score of 3.4/5 (Moderate). Variable road quality, aggressive drivers, island ferries, mountain roads

Based on tourist ratings, Japan scores 3.0/5 (Moderate). Left-hand driving, expensive tolls, excellent roads, kanji signage

The switch between right-hand traffic in Greece and left-hand traffic in Japan is the single biggest adjustment drivers will face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Japan with a Greece driving licence?

Rules vary by nationality. Check the specific licence requirements for each country, and consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Greece compared to Japan?

The motorway speed limit in Greece is 130 km/h, while in Japan it is 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h). Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Greece or Japan?

In Greece, winter tyres are not_required (no specific period). In Japan, they are situational (Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Japan has a stricter BAC limit (0.03%) compared to Greece (0.05%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Greece and Japan?

Greece drives on the right side and Japan drives on the left side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Greece in Japan?

International motor insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. Contact your insurer before travelling to confirm coverage in both Greece and Japan. You may need to purchase additional local insurance.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Greece or Japan?

In Greece, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 100, ambulance: 166). In Japan, call 110 (police: 110, ambulance: 119). Save both numbers in your phone before you travel.

Greece cut the default built-up-area limit to 30 km/h on 1 January 2026. 50 km/h now applies only on one-way roads with at least two lanes, two-way roads with at least two lanes per direction, or roads with a central median — unless a sign says otherwise.