Norway vs Turkey: Driving Rules Compared

Norway’s fines land far higher once converted: a red-light violation costs NOK 6,800, around EUR 590, more than four times Turkey’s EUR 130 for the same offence. Norway also holds drivers to a stricter 0.02 alcohol limit against Turkey’s 0.05. Motorway speeds sit closer together, 110 km/h in Norway against 120 in Turkey.

Drivers will find the transition between Norway and Turkey easy, as both countries drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits differ between Norway and Turkey, and understanding these differences is essential for avoiding fines.

Drivers in Norway should observe limits of 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on motorway stretches.

Turkey sets its speed limits at 50 km/h in cities and towns, 90 km/h on country roads, and 120 km/h on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Norway and Turkey. 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, Norway and Turkey have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Norway drives on the right; Turkey 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 18 in Norway and 18 in Turkey.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Norway, the penalty is NOK 5,000 (approx. EUR 430). In Turkey, the penalty is TRY 5,000 (approx. EUR 130). 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 Norway and Turkey. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is NOK 1,500 (approx. EUR 130) in Norway and TRY 2,500 (approx. EUR 65) in Turkey.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Norway, expect NOK 6,800 (approx. EUR 590). In Turkey, the penalty is TRY 5,000 (approx. EUR 130).

Alcohol and DUI Laws

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

Norway sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.02%.

Turkey has a BAC limit of 0.05%.

The lower limit in Norway 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 Norway and Turkey 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 Norway and Turkey, and non-compliance can result in fines, especially during winter.

Winter Tyres

• Norway: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 1 Nov - first Sunday after Easter Monday (northern Norway: 16 Oct - 30 Apr). Studded tyres: allowed. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Turkey: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 15 Nov - 15 Apr (commercial vehicles mandatory; passenger cars situational). Studded tyres: prohibited. 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 Norway and Turkey, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Norway and Turkey.

In Norway, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: NOK 2,550 (approx. EUR 220). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Turkey, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: TRY 2,000 (approx. EUR 50). 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.

Norway: 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 EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU/EEA licence valid for 3 months with IDP.

Turkey: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is required for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 6 months on a foreign licence IDP required for most foreign visitors. EU licences accepted for 6 months.

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 Norway or Turkey:

The EU-wide emergency number 112 works in both countries and connects to the appropriate emergency service.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

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

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. 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.

8. Be aware of environmental zones. Many cities have low-emission zones that restrict older vehicles. Check if you need an environmental sticker for either country.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Tourist-friendliness of driving varies between Norway and Turkey based on several factors.

Norway is rated 2.4/5 (Easy) by tourists. Stunning roads, tunnels, ferries, strict enforcement, expensive

Turkey is rated 3.6/5 (Challenging) by tourists. Aggressive driving culture, variable road quality, Istanbul traffic extreme

Since both Norway and Turkey drive on the right, the transition between the two is smooth for most drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Turkey with a Norway driving licence?

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

What is the speed limit on motorways in Norway compared to Turkey?

The motorway speed limit in Norway is 110 km/h, while in Turkey it is 120 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 Norway or Turkey?

In Norway, winter tyres are situational (1 Nov - first Sunday after Easter Monday (northern Norway: 16 Oct - 30 Apr)). In Turkey, they are situational (15 Nov - 15 Apr (commercial vehicles mandatory; passenger cars situational)). 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?

Norway has a stricter BAC limit (0.02%) compared to Turkey (0.05%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Norway and Turkey?

Norway drives on the right side and Turkey drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Norway in Turkey?

If both countries are within the EU/EEA, your motor insurance Green Card (or its digital equivalent) typically provides minimum third-party cover in both countries. Check with your insurer for full coverage details.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Norway or Turkey?

In Norway, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 113). In Turkey, call 112 (police: 155, ambulance: 112). The pan-European number 112 works in both countries.