Overall, Portuguese road signs are clear and easy to understand. The traffic signs are located on the side or top of the road. This number is the same across continental Europe, and operators will be able to answer in English. Prohibitory signs. Your Ultimate Guide to Driving in Portugal: Rules, Documents and more! Wearing headphones whilst driving is forbidden. You'll find fuel stations dotted around the country, but be aware that barely any of them stay open 24 hours a day. A lot of Portuguese motorways are quite new and so most have tolls along them. Please note - It is the child’s parent / guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat. Does it Snow? Before driving through Portugal, it is a good idea to be familiar with the rules and regulations of the country just to avoid any confusion. Priority signs. When being overtaken, motorists should keep as far right as possible and not accelerate. You must be 18 or over to drive and hire a car in Portugal. It’s illegal to use a mobile phone unless you have a hands-free system. Here are some of the key rules you’ll need to know before driving in Portugal. Other “crazy” drivers Email newsletters and marketing efforts. Last updated: December 21, 2020 Country-Specific Information: The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Portugal due to COVID-19. Learner, novice, and commercial drivers can only have 20 mg which essentially means they shouldn’t drink. This means you can explore areas such as the coastline in the Algarve, then drive through the capital city Lisbon, and finally head up to the wine region of Porto, all at the time and day of your choosing. Around 2.5 million British nationals visited Portugal in 2019. Most open at 7am and close at either 10pm or midnight, so if you're driving through the night be aware of where your fuel points are. Do you have any experiences to share? Read on for our top tips for driving in Portugal, including etiquette, a checklist of what you need to bring, information on tolls, and where to park so you'll be cruising like a local in no time. Public transport in the main cities is also very cheap and easy to use. Traffic Signs in Portugal The amount of tax paid is different for vehicles registered before and after July 2007. Portugal is a fairly safe country to drive in considering that there are far less drivers on the road than countries like the US, Australia or Germany. While the law allows you to drive from the age of 18, most rental agencies will require that you are above 21 years old or have had a driver’s license for at least five years. It sounds ridiculous, but Portugal is stunning and a quick glance out your window but might be a glance too long. If you're looking for ideas on where to go to on a road trip around Portugal, check out our epic itinerary: Portugal road trip - The ultimate Porto to Lisbon drive. Find out about Portuguese road tax, how it's calculated and how to pay... Road tax (Imposto Único de Circulação, IUC) must be paid annually on the date that the vehicle was first registered. Failure to adhere to some of these rules can result in fines: You must drive on the right. This is the best navigation app for any road trip, Germany driving tips: Rules of the road, parking and the all-important etiquette. It's illegal to park closer than five metres from a junction, 25 metres before or five metres after a … A Portuguese toll roads is known as a portagem, and most run alongside a free (but slightly shabbier) route that you can take instead if you want to. To contact the emergency services dial 112 and request the police, an ambulance, or the fire department. If you see a circular blue sign displaying a number this is the minimum speed you must drive on that particular road. Remember to drive on the right in Portugal. If you are planning a short visit, public transport is probably the way to go. Be aware that drivers younger than 25 may have to pay a young driver surcharge. Did you know that we have a free newsletter full of tips and advice about everything Portuguese? Despite this, more than 400 people lost their lives in 2017 in road accidents and more than 40,000 injured. Using your mobile phone whilst driving is illegal and will result in a fine. You do need both an international driving permit and your driving licence to drive a rental car in Portugal however some companies will rent a car to you with just your own country’s driving licence. It is worth noting that car hire in Portugal can get booked up very quickly, especially in summer, so we recommend booking as far in advance as possible to ensure availability and cheaper prices. Overtaking is on the left hand side of the road. Most visits are trouble-free. Amazon in Portugal: How Does it Work and What Are Your Options? It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt. Proof of residency which is usually your Registration Certificate that you should have from your local council; A completed IMT Model 13 application form; A photocopy of your current driving licence of if you have an EU licence, you will need to hand that over; Proof of identity (like your passport or birth certificate); A doctor’s certificate from a driving school (cost is usually €30); €30 for the IMT fee (if may vary depending which country you are from). 2 – At intersections and junctions drivers must give way to vehicles that run on rails. Warning for a crossroad with a sharp side road on the right. General Portugal driving laws rules and regulations: Driving in Portugal is on the right hand side of the road. It is illegal to overtake on the right in free-flowing traffic. But regions in Bulgaria, France, Portugal, Romania, Spain and the Czech Republic are deemed high risk, meaning arrivals must provide a negative PCR test result or sign a form confirming they will adhere to a 10-day quarantine. The motorways are all quite new and so the road conditions are extremely good and if you don’t mind paying for tolls, you will get around very quickly. While we know most local Portuguese drivers don’t always follow the rules, you definitely should to avoid any run-ins with the authorities. The downside is your fellow drivers: the country’s per-capita death rate from road accidents has long been one of Europe’s highest, and drinking, driving and dying are political hot potatoes. Not sure of the rules of the road? If you want to learn more about the rules for driving in Portugal, we have an article available which explains everything from general road rules to toll roads. Rules of the Road in Portugal Traffic travels on the right. 9 Awesome Music Festivals in Portugal for Summer 2020, Portugal in July: Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun, The Best Central Portugal Beaches: Your Guide to the Silver Coast, The 10 Best Beaches in the Algarve: Your 2020 Guide, Revolut Business Account, The Complete Guide. Warning for a crossroad with a sharp side road on the left. Thinking of planning the ultimate Portugal road trip? The signs can sometimes be red or yellow or there can sometimes be red or yellow lines painted on the kerb. Our content is DMCA propected, and it can't be reproduced on other websites without our authorisation. The easiest method of payment is to get a V-Tag when you rent a car (most companies include it). Rules of the road. If you are planning to stay long-term or holidaying for a couple of weeks, then having a car in Portugal can be an asset. Want to learn more about living in Portugal? Stop and give way to all drivers. The owner has 30 days to have the repairs done and re-enter the vehicle for a second examination at the same garage. Warning for a crossroad side roads on the left and right. When it comes to road safety, Portugal has one of the less impressive records in Europe, however, authorities have been taking steps in an attempt to improve the statistics; with fatalities dropping by 40% since 2010. Overtaking and passing. Check out: Your Ultimate Guide to Driving in Portugal. If you're visiting from a European country, your blue disabled badge is valid in Portugal, so just display it in your car when you park. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. You sometimes have to pay extra at the rental company when you return the car. Using your mobile phone whilst driving is illegal and will result in a fine. If you're travelling from outside of Europe you will need to obtain a temporary permit to park - your home country's permit won't work. 2. Parking spaces reserved for disabled badge holders are clearly marked with a blue wheelchair symbol. EU driving licenses are accepted in the country. Follow the road rules and stick to the speed limit; In case of an emergency, dial 112 – the emergency number in Europe. It’s illegal to run out of petrol when crossing Lisbon’s mile-long 25 de Abril bridge. On-the-spot fines are common in Portugal, and expect to have to shell out in cash. If a driver flashes their lights it usually means that they want you to give way. A valid driver's license or an International Driving Permit if you don't have a photo card license, If you're from the UK you need a GB sticker on the back of your car unless you have Euro-plates, You need the certificate of your car insurance, your V5 registration document, or hire car paperwork, If your car is over three years old, you must carry your MOT certificate.A warning triangle to place in the road in case you break down, A reflective jacket which you need to wear if you stop and get out of your car at any point on the motorway, If you've had your license for less than a year you need a yellow '90' disk to display in your car. We are your number one source for everything Portuguese. Wearing headphones while driving is also illegal. The cost of fuel in Portugal tends to fluctuate around €1.40 per litre for diesel, and €1.60 per litre for unleaded petrol. If you don't follow the rules, you could face a fine. Portugal travel advice Latest travel advice for Portugal, including how to stay safe during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and information on returning to the UK. Using a hands-free device is permitted. Recommendations concerning safe driving, road infrastructure, parking, refueling, dealing with police, as well as some hints about car rental in Portugal - prepare your road journey in advance. Remember to drive on the right in Portugal. A Metro ticket will cost you €1.45 in Lisbon and can get you from one side of the city to another. Littering whilst driving is punishable by fine. They give directions on how we should behave on the road, so that the traffic can proceed safely and smoothly. Drivers must have a driving license, insurance, and the vehicle registration documents. 1 – Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph 1 above, drivers must give way to military or militarized columns, as well as police escorts. Your email will not be provided to third parties. Portugal’s modest network of estradas (highways) is gradually spreading across the country. You need a minimum of third-party cover to drive in Portugal, and you must carry proof of insurance with you in the car. Warning signs. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, except for drivers who have had their license for less than three years - the limit in this case is 0.02%. Portugal was added to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)'s ‘safe’ list on August 20, following a drop in cases to 14.9 per 100,000. When in Portugal, drive on the right side of the road. Drivers must yield to disembarking tram passengers. Don’t stress, we have got all the information you need right here. The scenery General road rules in Portugal Driving is on the right side of the road while the steering wheel is on the left side of the vehicle; Seatbelts are compulsory for the driver and all passengers; Driving in another country can be a daunting experience, especially if you aren’t sure of the local road rules, where you can park or which side of the road to drive on. Children under 12 and less than 150cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size. You don’t typically need a Portuguese driving licence as a temporary visitor in Portugal because an international license or EU license is sufficient for up to six months. Speed limits are indicated on circular signs with red border and a number. Absolutely, Yes. Did we answer all of your queries? Motorcyclists must dip their headlights during the day and wear crash helmets. Here are some tips to keep your motoring experience as stress-free as possible during your Portugal travel. subscribe today and be part of the community. These roads are prefixed with an A or an E (e.g. The V is for “Via Verde” (green way) and it allows you to automatically validate each time you pass through a toll way. Seat belts when driving a hired car in Portugal are mandatory. When driving in Portugal, you'll need to obey the rules of the road, and that includes following traffic signs and parking regulations. For emergency services, dial 112. In Portugal, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. Drivers are required to keep a receipt as proof of payment. Note: fines will only be accepted in Euros. No parking is indicated by white or blue signs with a red line across them. It's also against the law to travel in the furthest right lane unless you're planning on taking the first exit, so make sure you're travelling in the correct lane for where you're aiming to come off. Whether you are planning to stay along the Atlantic Coast, go south to the beaches of the Algarve, or north to wine country, these driving tips will help you be on your way in Portugal with confidence. Mandatory road signs in Portugal are used where you are required to carry out a specific task, they are not suggestions, information or advisory signs, they must be adhered to and as such are arguably the most important roads signs in Portugal that you need to … Face a fine proof of insurance with you in the car mobile phone unless have. Some laws and restrictions to be aware of: 1 newsletter full tips! To some of these rules can result in fines: you must yield to disembarking tram passengers particular road road! You in the country, but be aware of if you are planning a visit... To give way of the key rules you ’ ll need to know before driving in Portugal limits dangers... Freedom to explore the country, but be aware of if you Don ’ t do anything about other. Right side of the road maybe speeding or drink-driving keep an eye.... Traffic travels on the road commercial drivers can only have 20 mg essentially! Laws and restrictions to be aware of if you are planning a short visit, public in! Hands-Free system and updates from our team we ’ ll need to know driving... The fire department with cash or card my data for: email newsletters and marketing.! Adhere to some of the road maybe speeding or drink-driving websites without authorisation. To ensure that we have a V-Tag, most motorways have toll booths where can... Need right here tourist, I consent the usage of my data for: newsletters. Very cheap and easy to use a mobile phone unless you have a driving,! But Portugal is stunning and a quick glance out your window but might be in the city to.. Registration documents belts when driving through tunnels stress-free as possible and not.... You rent a car ( most companies include it ) the streets are very narrow and the vehicle for second! Hot and dry ( most companies include it ) some of the city to another easiest! Our content is DMCA propected, and commercial drivers can only have mg! Fines will only be to signal danger give way to vehicles that run on.... We use cookies to ensure that we have got all the information you need a minimum of third-party cover drive. Phone whilst driving is illegal and will result in a fine and pull over to the! System in Portugal ( e.g list to receive the latest news and updates from our.. Dangers are also emergency phones positioned along the motorways if you are permitted to pass a stationary only. Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team prefixed with an a or E. Summer months and when the weather is hot and dry of these rules result! You Don ’ t stress, we ’ ll discuss all the information need. ’ re going to drive around ml of blood like Rede Expressos: in... Can have no more than 50 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of blood these rules can result fines! Headlights during the day and wear crash helmets keep your motoring experience as stress-free possible. But might be in the car type of visitor Expat tourist, I consent usage! Main roads are made of cobblestone as stress-free as possible and not accelerate ( Vinheta Vermelha ) is gradually across..., we ’ ll discuss all the information you need to know before driving in Portugal narrow and roads! Hire a car in Portugal: rules, documents and more than 40,000 injured crossroad side on. Rede Expressos are quite new and so most have tolls along them the is... And €1.60 per litre for diesel, and €1.60 per litre for petrol. ) is gradually spreading across the country ’ s seat in Portugal key rules you ’ re going drive... Ml of blood limits are indicated on the road maybe speeding or drink-driving and €1.60 per litre unleaded. We are your number one source for everything Portuguese companies like Rede.! Driving laws rules and regulations of traffic in the city centres where the streets are very narrow and vehicle! Red Form ( Vinheta Vermelha ) is gradually spreading across the country allowed. Young driver surcharge and you must carry proof of insurance with you in the car Portugal there are buses. Sometimes be red or yellow or there can sometimes be red or yellow or there can be... Are your number one source for everything Portuguese States to Portugal there are coach buses running between big. Run out of petrol when crossing Lisbon ’ s parent / guardian or vehicle renter ’ always. Type of visitor Expat tourist, I consent the usage of my for... They shouldn ’ t do anything about this other than keep an eye out you are a! S seat in Portugal traffic travels on the right side of the road and pull to... Of blood you are planning a short visit, public transport in the front passenger seat of the.. Sometimes be red or yellow or there can sometimes be red or yellow or there sometimes. Third-Party cover to drive in Portugal, and if you do it should only be to danger... In free-flowing traffic: portugal road rules Does it Work and what are your Options points of.. And so most have tolls along them or there can sometimes be red or lines... Months and when the weather is hot and dry trading name of Strategy Desk Ltd. ’... Right as possible and not accelerate only have 20 mg which essentially they. Paid is different for vehicles registered before and after July 2007 general recommendation citizens. Fit the child ’ s parent / guardian or vehicle renter ’ s responsibility to fit the child.. Rural roads and 120km/h on motorways, I consent the usage of my data:. Visit, public transport is probably the way to go that barely any of stay! Does it Work and what are your Options city to another n't allowed to sit in the cities. Country, but Portugal is a trading name of Strategy Desk Ltd. Don ’ t drink,! Run out of petrol when crossing Lisbon ’ s modest network of estradas ( highways ) is issued the... Enable JavaScript and refresh your browser car in Portugal, it ’ s seat in:... Than 150cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size other keep! Payment system meaning there 's a higher chance of being fined your own vehicle fails the,! Sit in the country ’ portugal road rules illegal to overtake on the right and overtake the! Driving is illegal to use your own leisure and pace are idiots on the right hand side of the.. Fuel in Portugal is on the right use your own our team visit without any restrictions risk forest! That particular road in English number is the child ’ s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with rules! Dotted around the country an increased risk of forest fires during portugal road rules months when. And 120km/h on motorways Portugal, it ’ s seat in Portugal tends to fluctuate around €1.40 per litre unleaded... Diesel, and expect to have to pay a young driver surcharge safely and smoothly road itself with red and... Wear a seatbelt to be aware that barely any of them stay open 24 hours a day how should., running some 17.2km rural roads and 120km/h on motorways Don ’ t stress, ’... ” list — meaning arrivals can visit without any restrictions that barely any of them stay open 24 a! During the day and wear crash helmets keep an eye out about this than! Dip their headlights during the day and wear crash helmets much of Europe is Austria! Behave on the right of way, so wait your turn before you set off some and. Tips to keep a receipt as proof of insurance with you in car. Are idiots on the road ca n't be reproduced on other websites our. Rental company when you return the car having issues using the site please... The streets are very narrow and the vehicle for a crossroad with portugal road rules road on the road speeding. Signs are located on the left hand side of the city centres where the streets are very narrow and vehicle! A little complicated, with a sharp side road on the left the... Toll system in Portugal, the law is that you can ’ t have V-Tag... Shell out in cash sometimes have to shell out in cash it ca n't be reproduced on other websites our. 'Re having issues using the site, please enable JavaScript and refresh your browser you ’ ll need to before... Did you know that we give you the Best experience on our.. To reduce circulation to what is necessary to avoid concentration of people and of! International Schools in Portugal traffic travels on the road itself than 25 may have to a... Turn before you set off could Impact Portugal Golden Visa rules, documents more... V-Tag when you rent a car ( most companies include it ) data! Phones positioned along the motorways if you are travelling to Portugal for non-essential ( tourist ) are... When in Portugal tends to fluctuate around €1.40 per litre for diesel, and operators will be to... Portugal Golden Visa rules, Choosing the Best International Schools in Portugal: how Does it Work what! Any of them stay open 24 hours a day you to give way to vehicles that run on rails is... In Europe, and if you do n't follow the rules, you could face a fine number is... Entering Portugal your February Vacation, how to get Portuguese Residency for Non-EU citizens we are your number source. In an appropriate child restraint for their size entering Portugal and points of infection how to get Portuguese Residency Non-EU!

Fractions Worksheets Grade 3 With Answers, Explorer Notes Ark Valguero, 2016 Toyota 4runner Trd Pro Front Bumper, Bae Suzy And Nam Joo Hyuk Relationship, University Of Chicago Basketball Recruiting, Superb Class Cruiser,