Driving in Italy
The Italians drive on the left side of the road and overtake from the right. You must be careful while overtaking and should allow ample space in between cars. The drinking laws in Italy are extremely strict. The blood alcohol limit is 0.5mg. Seatbelts are compulsory both at the front and back.
Speed limits are set very rigorously in Italy. Speeding violations can lead to very heavy fines on the spot. Speed limits differ in different areas. On motorways the speed limits is 130kph while in towns and cities it is 50kph. The speed limits are different during wet days so make sure you are familiar with all the rules and regulations before taking to your car.
Children under four years of age are not allowed to travel unless they are seated in a child safety seat that has met standard regulations. Children under 12 years of age are not allowed to sit in the front and must be seated at the back securely fastened.
It is always a good idea to carry important documentation like you driving license, vehicle registration and certificate of insurance. A photo ID is necessary. Therefore, if your license does not have one make sure you carry your passport as a valid form of identification. If the car has not been registered under your name, you must also carry a letter from the owner stating permission to drive the car.
It is recommended that you carry an extra set of bulbs in your car. The use of headlamp converters is mandatory. Horns are used throughout and everywhere except in built up areas. When the visibility is low, or if you are travelling through a tunnel, dipped headlights are compulsory. It is also required to be used on motorways, dual carriageways and open roads.
The police have the authority to collect fines on the spot. So be extremely careful of road and traffic violations. Make sure you receive a receipt from the officer that collects your fines. It is also recommended that you carry a first aid kit with you.
The minimum age for driving in Italy is 18. You must either hold a full UK driving license or an International Driving Permit. If you have an old style green license, most of the police will not be able to understand them and you might get convicted for driving without an appropriate license. Therefore it is a good idea to keep your international driver’s permit in hand.
All vehicles are required to display the GB sticker that shows your country of origin. Visibility vests have now become a compulsory road regulation. The rules vary depending on which country you are in and concerning the number of vests required and where it should be placed etc. A warning triangle is also compulsory.
Keep these road rules in mind as you cruise through the historic cities of Florence, Naples, Milan and Venice. You don’t want to be caught up with traffic violations when there is so much to see and do in Italy.
Additional Information
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