Finland's Legal Winter Tread Is 3 mm, Not 1.6 mm (2026)

The tread figure that matters in Finland is 3 mm, not the 1.6 mm that covers ordinary tyres: winter tyres must carry the 3PMSF marking and meet that deeper minimum, and they are expected from 1 November to 31 March, longer when conditions demand. Studs are permitted. Speeding is charged two ways — a fixed €200 for 10 km/h over, then income-based day-fines above that, so identical speeds cost different drivers very different sums. Motorways run to 120 km/h, rural roads to 80 and towns to 50, and the blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.

Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05% BAC. You must be at least 18 to drive.

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Emergency Numbers in Finland

General Emergency: 112 | Police: 112

Save these numbers before you start driving. In Finland, emergency calls are free from any phone.

Speed Limits in Finland

The default speed limits for passenger cars in Finland are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways.

Trucks and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes have lower limits: 50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural, and 80 km/h on motorways.

For comparison, motorway limits in nearby countries: Sweden (110 km/h), Norway (110 km/h), Russia (110 km/h).

Finland uses an extensive network of fixed and mobile speed cameras. The typical enforcement tolerance is about 3 km/h.

Important: Posted signs always override default limits. Watch for temporary restrictions in construction zones, near schools, and in residential areas.

Speeding Fines and Penalties

Speeding fines in Finland escalate based on how far you exceed the limit. Exceeding by up to 10 km/h: EUR 200 (fixed fine). Exceeding by 11-20 km/h: Income-based day-fine. Over 20 km/h: Income-based day-fine + licence suspension or more.

Foreign drivers in Finland may be required to pay fines on the spot. Carry sufficient cash or a valid payment card.

Other common fines:

• Mobile phone use while driving: EUR 100 (fixed fine)
• Running a red light: Income-based day-fine
• Seatbelt violation: EUR 70

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Drive on the right side of the road. Overtake on the left. At roundabouts, enter counter-clockwise and yield to traffic already circulating.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children must use appropriate restraint systems based on their age and height.

Using a hand-held phone while driving is illegal. The fine is EUR 100 (fixed fine). Use hands-free devices only.

Daytime running lights are required in most situations. Dipped headlights must be used in tunnels, rain, and reduced visibility.

At unmarked intersections, traffic from the right generally has priority unless signs indicate otherwise.

Drink-Driving Laws and Alcohol Limits

The legal blood alcohol limit in Finland is 0.05% BAC. This is higher than Sweden (0.02% BAC). Exceeding this limit results in fines, licence suspension, and possible criminal charges. For novice drivers and professional drivers, stricter limits may apply.

The safest approach is to not drink at all if you will be driving. Alcohol affects reaction time and judgement regardless of the legal limit.

Tyre Requirements and Regulations

Winter tyre requirement in Finland: Required.

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. Safety experts recommend replacing tyres at 4.0 mm for adequate grip.

Studded tyres are allowed in Finland during winter months. Check specific dates and conditions.

For detailed tyre law information, see our Tyre Laws in Finland guide.

Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

Vehicles in Finland must carry the following:

Required:

• Warning triangle
• Reflective vest (high-visibility)

Recommended:

• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Spare bulbs

Keep all equipment accessible — not buried under luggage. Police may check during routine stops.

Driving License Requirements

EU and EEA driving licences are valid in Finland without additional documentation. Always carry your original driving licence — photocopies are not accepted. Your foreign licence is valid for up to 12 months.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

EU/EEA licences valid. IDP recommended for non-EU visitors.

Parking and Fuel

City-centre parking in Finland is typically paid — use parking meters, ticket machines, or mobile payment apps. Look for P+R (park and ride) facilities on the outskirts connected to public transport.

Current fuel prices in Finland: petrol approximately $1.98/litre, diesel $1.78/litre (USD). Prices vary by region and station.

Most fuel stations accept major credit and debit cards. In rural areas, keep your tank above half — stations may be far apart.

Seasonal Driving Conditions

Finland has cold winters and mild summers. Winter driving (November to March) requires caution — ice, snow, and reduced visibility are common. Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving. Allow extra following distance on slippery roads.

Summer driving is generally straightforward with long daylight hours. Watch for tourist traffic near popular destinations.

Practical Driving Tips for Finland

• Speed camera warning apps (Waze, Google Maps) are legal here.
• Dashcams are legal and recommended for evidence in case of an accident.
• Police can issue on-the-spot fines. Carry cash or a valid payment card.
• Download offline maps of Finland before your trip — mobile signal can be unreliable on rural roads.
• Check if you need a motorway vignette (toll sticker) or an environmental zone sticker for city driving.
• Take a break every 2 hours on long drives. Fatigue is a leading cause of road accidents.
• Use our interactive tools on this page — compare rules with your home country and calculate potential fines before you set off.