Road Rules in Iceland
Essential driving regulations and safety guidelines for your journey
Essential Road Rules
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Speed Limits
30-50 urban, 80-90 rural
Headlights On
Day & night required
No Off-Road
Heavy fines apply
Seatbelts
All passengers always
Roundabouts
How to safely navigate roundabouts while driving
Road Signs
List of road signs and information about them
No turning right on red lights:
Unlike in some countries, turning right on a red light is illegal
Stop Only in Designated Areas
Never stop on or near the roadway to view the Northern Lights
Common Road Signs
Speed Limit
90 km/h on paved roads
Road Narrows
Reduce speed
Sheep Crossing
Common in rural areas
Slippery Road
New tarmac or gravel on road making it slippery
Dangerous Curve
Sharp turn ahead
Driving off marked roads is strictly illegal and punishable by heavy fines. Iceland’s fragile ecosystem can take decades to recover from tire damage.
From November 1 to April 15, winter tires are mandatory. Studded tires are recommended for icy conditions.