Going to Italy this summer? Here are som good advices for driving in Italy, that will keep you prepared and safe on your journey. General driving advice and special equipment for driving legaly in Italy. Use this as a checklist before you go to avoid any problems.


General driving advice Italy:
– A valid full driving licence. The original vehicle registration document and Your passport
– Make sure you have European breakdown cover.
– 112 is the emergency number across Europe.
– Don’t use a hand held mobile while driving.
– If you wear glasses, take a spare pair.
– It is recommended that you have a reflective jacket in the car – they are compulsory in many European countries.
– Speed camera / radar detection systems are illegal in most European countries. Come countries have also banned the use of sat navs which detect fixed speed cameras so ensure this is deactivated.
– Plan your journey
– There is only one safe rule when it comes to drinking and driving; if you drink, don’t drive.

Check your Car before taking of to Italy:
Service your car before you go to avoid expensive and frustrating breakdowns while away. Check the tread for wear – the legal limit in the summer for car tyres across Europe is 1.6mm but we recommend a minimum of 3mm as tyres wear quickly after 3mm. Check the tyre pressure – remember to check them when cold. Check tyres for any damage and replace them if you need to. Think about taking a puncture repair kit to get you on the road again without having to change a tyre, until you are able to get to a garage for a replacement.

Driving Advice Italy
– Warning triangle
– Cars with an overhanging load (such as bicycles) must display a fully reflective square panel
– It is compulsory to have third party motor insurance.
– When approaching a roundabout give way to traffic from the right on roundabouts and at crossroads.
The use of the horn in urban areas is prohibited unless it’s an emergency.
– Carrying or using radar detectors is not allowed. Fines between €708 and €2,834 as well as confiscation of the device could apply.
– Dipped headlights must be used outside of urban areas as well as when there is poor visibility, snow or rain. Lights should always be used when going through tunnels. The use of rear fog lights is only allowed with very poor visibility (i.e heavy rain.)
When driving around Italy’s historical centres / main towns or cities, it is important to note that there may be restricted access. This will be marked by ‘Zone a Traffico Limitato.’
– If visiting Milan, motorists must purchase an eco-pass before entering the centre (or restricted zones). Charges apply Mon-Fri (7.30am until 7.30pm).
– Speed limits for private vehicles without trailers (may vary, always look out for signs): In built-up areas 31 mph (50 km/h)Outside built-up areas 55 mph (90 km/h)On ordinary roads 68 mph (110 km/h)Dual carriageways 68 mph (110 km/h)Motorways 80 mph (130 km/h)In wet weather lower speed limits of 55mph (90km/h) apply on dual carriageways and 68mph (110km/h) on motorwaysMaximum speed limit if using snow chains is 31mph (50 km/h)
– Drivers with a licence for three years or less, must not exceed a speed limit of 55mph (90 km/h) outside built up areas 62 mph (100 km/h permitted on motorways.)
– Seat belts: Seat belts are compulsory for front/rear seat occupants (if fitted) Children under four must be seated using a car safety seat. Children between four and 12 years-old must be seated using a child’s restraint system.

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