Iceland vs United States: Driving Rules Compared

Iceland’s drink-driving limit sits at 0.02, four times stricter than the 0.08 permitted across most of the United States. Iceland also has no motorways whatsoever, its fastest road is the 90 km/h ring road, with gravel sections slower still. Both countries drive on the right and share the same minimum driving age of 16.

Since both Iceland and the United States are right-hand-traffic countries, moving between them requires no adjustment to driving side.

Speed Limits Comparison

One of the most practical differences for drivers is the variation in speed limits between Iceland and the United States.

Drivers in Iceland should observe limits of 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and N/A on motorway stretches.

Drivers in United States should observe limits of 40 km/h in built-up areas, 88 km/h on rural roads, and 104 km/h (Speed limits vary by state; typical: 25-35 mph urban, 55 mph rural, 65-75 mph highway) on motorway stretches.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Iceland and the United States. 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, Iceland and the United States have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Iceland drives on the right; United States drives on the right. Since both countries use the same driving side, the transition is seamless in this regard.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 16 in Iceland and 16 in the United States.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Iceland, the penalty is ISK 15,000 (approx. EUR 100). In the United States, the penalty is USD 50-500 depending on state (approx. EUR 45-450); not banned in all states. 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 Iceland and the United States. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is ISK 15,000 (approx. EUR 100) in Iceland and USD 25-200 depending on state (approx. EUR 23-180) in the United States.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Iceland, expect ISK 30,000 (approx. EUR 200). In the United States, the penalty is USD 100-500 depending on state (approx. EUR 90-450).

Alcohol and DUI Laws

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

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

United States has a BAC limit of 0.08%.

Iceland has a stricter limit, so drivers accustomed to the United States’s rules should exercise extra caution.

Penalties for exceeding the BAC limit in both Iceland and the United States 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 Iceland and the United States, and non-compliance can result in fines, especially during winter.

Winter Tyres

• Iceland: Winter tyres are mandatory. Period: 1 Nov - 14 Apr. Studded tyres: allowed. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• United States: Winter tyres are situational. Period: State-dependent (e.g. chain laws in CO, CA mountain passes). 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 Iceland and the United States, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Iceland and the United States.

In Iceland, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: ISK 10,000 (approx. EUR 65). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In United States, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: USD 50-200 depending on state (approx. EUR 45-180). 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

International visitors planning to drive in either country should understand the licence requirements.

Iceland: 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 EEA member. EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors need IDP.

United States: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 3 months on a foreign licence Requirements vary by state. Most states accept foreign licence with IDP for up to 3 months. Some states require IDP.

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

Save these emergency numbers before travelling to Iceland or United States:

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 Iceland and the United States, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

1. Respect local driving culture. Overtaking norms, horn usage, and right-of-way conventions differ. Observe local drivers and adapt accordingly.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Understand toll systems. Research whether you need a vignette, transponder, or cash for tolls in each country.

5. 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.

6. 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.

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

8. Watch for different road signs. While European countries share many sign conventions, there are country-specific signs you should recognise. Review a local driving guide before your trip.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Tourist-friendliness of driving varies between Iceland and the United States based on several factors.

Based on tourist ratings, Iceland scores 3.1/5 (Moderate). F-roads require 4WD, weather changes rapidly, gravel roads, no off-road

Tourist reviews give United States a driving ease score of 2.0/5 (Easy). Wide roads, automatic cars, right-hand driving, state laws vary

Since both Iceland and the United States drive on the right, the transition between the two is smooth for most drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in the United States with a Iceland driving licence?

Yes, EU/EEA driving licences are fully valid in both countries without additional documentation.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Iceland compared to the United States?

The motorway speed limit in Iceland is N/A, while in the United States it is 104 km/h (Speed limits vary by state; typical: 25-35 mph urban, 55 mph rural, 65-75 mph highway). Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Iceland or United States?

In Iceland, winter tyres are mandatory (1 Nov - 14 Apr). In the United States, they are situational (State-dependent (e.g. chain laws in CO, CA mountain passes)). 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?

Iceland has a stricter BAC limit (0.05%) compared to the United States (0.08%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Iceland and the United States?

Iceland drives on the right side and the United States drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Iceland in the United States?

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

What emergency number should I call while driving in Iceland or United States?

In Iceland, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 112). In the United States, call 911 (police: 911, ambulance: 911). Save both numbers in your phone before you travel.