DRIVING IN ICELAND

Exploring Iceland by car offers the freedom to travel at your own pace, but road and weather conditions can change quickly throughout the year. Before setting out, always check current conditions and make sure your vehicle is suitable and permitted for your planned route.

Icelandic Road sign

Road Conditions & Surfaces

Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1) and most main roads are paved, but gravel roads are common in rural areas. Reduce your speed when transitioning from paved roads to gravel, as loose surfaces can affect traction and vehicle control. Single-lane bridges are also common, so approach them slowly and be prepared to give way.

Winter conditions can occur outside the traditional winter months, and snow, ice, strong winds or poor visibility may affect travel at any time. Always drive according to the conditions rather than relying solely on the posted speed limit.

Speed Limits

Unless otherwise indicated by road signs, the general speed limits in Iceland are:

  • 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas
  • 80 km/h (50 mph) on rural gravel roads
  • 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural paved roads

Speed should always be adjusted to suit weather, visibility and road conditions.

Roundabouts

In a two-lane roundabout, vehicles traveling in the inner lane have priority when exiting, and vehicles in the outer lane must give way. Take particular care at multi-lane roundabouts and pay close attention to other vehicles and road signs.

Parking

Parking regulations and charges vary by location. Paid parking is common in Reykjavík and increasingly at popular natural attractions, with payment typically available through parking meters, websites or mobile apps.

Always use designated parking areas or lay-bys when stopping to enjoy the scenery or take photographs. Never stop on the road where you may obstruct traffic or create a hazard. SafeTravel specifically advises motorists to find a safe place away from the road before stopping to enjoy the scenery.

Headlights & Seat Belts

Headlights and taillights must be switched on at all times when driving in Iceland, day and night and throughout the year.

Seat belts are compulsory for the driver and all passengers.

Children must use an appropriate child restraint according to their height and size.

Rental Car

Off-Road Driving

Off-road driving is strictly prohibited in Iceland. Driving outside marked roads and tracks can cause lasting damage to fragile vegetation and landscapes.

If you wish to stop for photographs or sightseeing, always use a designated parking area or a safe place completely away from the road.

Highland & F-Road Driving

Driving in the Icelandic Highlands requires additional preparation. Highland roads are generally accessible only during the summer, with opening dates varying each year according to snow, weather and road conditions. Many routes require a suitable 4x4 vehicle, and not every 4x4 is appropriate or permitted on every Highland road.

Some routes include unbridged river crossings, where water levels and currents can change quickly. Always confirm that your rental vehicle is approved for your planned route and check current conditions before entering the Highlands. If you are uncertain about a river crossing, do not attempt it.

See the Icelandic Road & Coastal Administration's website for opening of mountain roads.

Winter Driving

Winter driving in Iceland requires flexibility. Snow, ice, strong winds and reduced visibility can make conditions challenging, and roads may close temporarily during severe weather. Even the Ring Road can be affected, so never assume that a planned route will remain accessible simply because it is normally open year-round. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration categorizes roads according to current conditions, including slippery, difficult, impassable and closed.

Allow extra time for your journey, keep your itinerary flexible and check the weather and road conditions before setting out each day.

Check Conditions Before You Drive

Road and weather conditions can change rapidly, so check reliable, official information before beginning your journey:

SafeTravel specifically recommends checking current road and weather conditions before traveling, while Umferðin provides live information from the Icelandic road network.