Turkey vs United Kingdom: Driving Rules Compared

The biggest change between Turkey and the United Kingdom happens before any speed sign: the United Kingdom drives on the left, Turkey on the right. Motorway limits sit at 120 versus 112 km/h, and the side-by-side below shows where else the two rulebooks diverge.

Turkey drives on the right while the United Kingdom 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 are one of the first things drivers notice when crossing borders. Turkey and the United Kingdom take notably different approaches.

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.

In United Kingdom, the standard speed limits are 48 km/h in urban areas, 96 km/h on rural roads, and 112 km/h (Speed limits in mph: 30 mph urban, 60 mph rural, 70 mph motorway) on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Pay attention to signage when driving between Turkey and the United Kingdom. Speed camera enforcement styles may differ, and ignorance of local limits is not accepted as an excuse.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Turkey and the United Kingdom have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Turkey drives on the right; United Kingdom drives on the left. This is a major difference that requires careful adjustment.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 18 in Turkey and 17 in the United Kingdom.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Turkey, the penalty is TRY 5,000 (approx. EUR 130). In the United Kingdom, the penalty is GBP 200 + 6 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 Turkey and the United Kingdom. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is TRY 2,500 (approx. EUR 65) in Turkey and GBP 100 (up to GBP 500 if court) in the United Kingdom.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Turkey, expect TRY 5,000 (approx. EUR 130). In the United Kingdom, the penalty is GBP 100 + 3 points.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

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

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

United Kingdom has a BAC limit of 0.08%.

The lower limit in Turkey 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 Turkey and the United Kingdom 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

Before driving in Turkey or United Kingdom, check that your vehicle carries all the legally required equipment. Requirements differ between the two countries.

Winter Tyres

• Turkey: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 1 Dec - 1 Apr (commercial vehicles mandatory; passenger cars situational). Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• United Kingdom: Winter tyres are not mandatory. Studded tyres: allowed. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

If renting a vehicle, verify with the agency that it includes mandatory equipment for both Turkey and the United Kingdom, especially if you plan to cross the border.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Turkey and the United Kingdom.

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.

In United Kingdom, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: GBP 100 + 3 points (minimum band A fine). 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.

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.

United Kingdom: 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 for 12 months. Some non-EU countries need IDP. Drive 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

Save these emergency numbers before travelling to Turkey or United Kingdom:

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

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Before hitting the road in Turkey or United Kingdom, consider these practical driving tips:

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

4. 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.

5. 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.

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

7. 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.

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

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Tourist-friendliness of driving varies between Turkey and the United Kingdom based on several factors.

Tourist reviews give Turkey a driving ease score of 3.6/5 (Challenging). Aggressive driving culture, variable road quality, Istanbul traffic extreme

Based on tourist ratings, United Kingdom scores 2.8/5 (Moderate). Left-hand driving adjustment, roundabouts, narrow rural roads

The switch between right-hand traffic in Turkey and left-hand traffic in the United Kingdom is the single biggest adjustment drivers will face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in the United Kingdom with a Turkey driving licence?

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

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

The motorway speed limit in Turkey is 120 km/h, while in the United Kingdom it is 112 km/h (Speed limits in mph: 30 mph urban, 60 mph rural, 70 mph motorway). Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Turkey or United Kingdom?

In Turkey, winter tyres are situational (1 Dec - 1 Apr (commercial vehicles mandatory; passenger cars situational)). In the United Kingdom, they are not mandatory (no specific period). 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?

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

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

Turkey drives on the right side and the United Kingdom drives on the left side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Turkey in the United Kingdom?

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 Turkey or United Kingdom?

In Turkey, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 155, ambulance: 112). In the United Kingdom, call 112 (police: 999, ambulance: 999). The pan-European number 112 works in both countries.