Iceland Has No Motorways in 2026 — Just a 90 km/h Ring Road

Iceland has no motorways at all: the highest posted limit anywhere on the ring road is 90 km/h, and gravel sections often run slower still. Winter tyres become mandatory every year from 1 November to 14 April, and studded tyres are allowed during that window. The blood alcohol limit is a strict 0.02%, and speeding by more than 30 km/h over the limit can bring a fine of about ISK 70,000, roughly EUR 460.

The blood alcohol limit is 0.02% BAC (0.2‰, Traffic Act 77/2019). You must be at least 16 to drive.

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Emergency Numbers in Iceland

General Emergency: 112 | Police: 112

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

Speed Limits in Iceland

The default speed limits for passenger cars in Iceland are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and there are no motorways. Note: No motorways; highest speed limit is 90 km/h on ring road (gravel sections lower).

Speed camera coverage in Iceland is relatively limited, but mobile radar units are used. The typical enforcement tolerance is about 5 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 Iceland escalate based on how far you exceed the limit. Exceeding by up to 10 km/h: ISK 10,000 (approx. EUR 65). Exceeding by 11-20 km/h: ISK 30,000 (approx. EUR 200). Over 20 km/h: ISK 70,000 (approx. EUR 460) + possible licence suspension or more.

Foreign drivers in Iceland 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: ISK 15,000 (approx. EUR 100)
• Running a red light: ISK 30,000 (approx. EUR 200)
• Seatbelt violation: ISK 15,000 (approx. EUR 100)

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 ISK 15,000 (approx. EUR 100). 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 Iceland is 0.02% BAC (0.2‰ under the Traffic Act no. 77/2019, Art. 49) — the same strict level as Sweden and Norway. 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 Iceland: Required.

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. Safety experts recommend replacing tyres at 3.0 mm for adequate grip.

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

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

Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

Vehicles in Iceland 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 Iceland 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 16 years.

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

Parking and Fuel

City-centre parking in Iceland 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 Iceland: petrol approximately $2.15/litre, diesel $2.08/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

Iceland 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 Iceland

• 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 Iceland 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.