american tourist driving in italy

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An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

Driving in Italy as a tourist: all you need to know for a safe and stress-free trip

Practical tips for driving in Italy without losing your zen! What to expect on Italian road, how to avoid fines, what to look for when renting a car in Italy. Updated in November 2023

Driving in Italy worries many.

Several parts of Italy are best visited by car; however, stories of temperamental drivers, small streets and what feels like random fines are popular among visitors so, it is more than understandable why you may be a little bit wary about getting behind the wheel on Italian roads.

But how dangerous is it to drive in Italy? Is it safe to rent a car in Italy and go on a road trip or are the stories about crazy Italian drivers true?

Today, I am going to tackle all this, separate myth from reality and will give you all I believe you need to make an informed decision and know what to expect and how to tackle driving in Italy.

Why you can trust what I say? It’s a valid question! I am Italian, I have been driving in Italy for many years and got my driving license in Italy, which meant I had to learn the Italian rules of the road in depth (it’s a pretty thorough exam!).

I also spend large parts of my life in Ireland so I know very well how daunting it is to drive on the other side of the road and how different the driving style is.

Last but not least, I have driven extensively in the US and Canada, so I know what I am comparing Italian driving with and some of the fears that come from drivers from there.

So basically, I truly believe I can really help you with your Italian driving!

On this page, we’ll look at:

• Do you need to drive in Italy? If so, where?
• The basic rules of the road that may differ from back home (side of the road, overtaking, turning on red etc)
• Important danger signals you need to know (such as use of hazard lights in case of queue)
• Considerations about how crazy (or not) Italian drivers actually are
• Information on Italian roads, speed limits etc
• Documents you need to drive
• Car seats for kids

Spoiler: Driving in Italy is very different from driving in, let’s say, the US; however, it is definitely doable and most likely a lot less insane than stories on the web may suggest. Get these tips first, though!

Top tip: if you are planning on renting a car, you may also find helpful >>>our guide about renting a car in Italy .

Do you need to drive in Italy?

Before we dive into how to drive in Italy, let’s look at how necessary or unnecessary it is.

In general, you will not need to drive in Italy if you want to stick to the main cities, visit Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast.

Rome, Venice, Florence and Milan are all well connected with high-speed trains and an extensive network of local trains will allow you to visit areas in their vicinity, including Cinque Terre, Verona, parts of Lake Garda

Parts of the Dolomites, limited parts of Lake Como, limited parts of Puglia are also manageable by train, for short periods of time, but come into their own if you have your own car.

I do not recommend to drive in Campania (Naples / Amalfi Coast are) for driving style and traffic; I also do not recommend to drive in Cinque Terre (traffic and parking issued) and do not recommend driving in big cities.

To visit the Amalfi Coast you can rely on a combination of train and ferry (in summer) and train and bus (in winter). I do not recommend driving here.

Other parts of Italy such as the Val d’Orcia or most of Tuscany, Sicily, Piedmont and most of the the south of Italy and the islands do require the car.

you can also find handy >>> how to get around Italy: areas overview to help you choose the best transport.

What are Italian roads like?

In Italy, you will find yourself driving on roads falling into the following categories:

Autostrade – Autostrade are the Italian highways/motorways and they are toll roads.

They are usually named with the letter A followed by a number and the signals along them have white writing on green background.

Autorstrade are well paved, well kept and have regular emergency points in case of breakdowns and gas stations.

As you access them, you find a tall booth dispensing tickets with your point of entry (automated machine).

Slow down, take the ticket and kept it with you.

Need to know: do not store your ticket close to your mobile phone! It will demagnetize it, and lose the info about your entry point. If that happens, the person at the exit booth is usually able to find out the entry point by your registration plate but not always. The best wat to keep your ticket is on the back of the sunshade, which ually has a little pocket for it.

When exiting at your destination, you will use the machine provided to pay the relevant fees.

As you approach a motorway booth, you will see signs helping you get in the right lane.

I always go to the manned one as I like to deal with a human!

Usually, both cards and cash are accepted and there are lanes for ‘Telepass’ (electronic toll collection system).

Good to know: often card machines want a pin and do not operate contactless. If you do not have a pin, have cash on you or go to the manned booth.

Telepass is usually not included in car rental contracts so do not use the reserved lanes assuming you have it: unless you are told specifically you do, you do not!

Driving on autostrade is pretty straightforward.

Usually, Italian autostrade they are smaller than American Freeways and have 2, 3 o 4 lanes; they are open to cars, vans and trucks (no mopeds and slow vehicles).

Driving on Italian motorways is not significantly different than driving on a highway or freeway back home.

The speed limit on Italian autostrada is 110Km/h.

Read here >>> our complete guide to using Italian toll roads .

Strade Statali is the name of Italy’s national roads. Thea re usually named SS followed by a number.

So, if you see SS1, you know you are on Strada Statale 1.

Roads falling into this category come in all shapes and sizes and vary from large and straight roads to bendy and narrow ones.

The speed limit on national roads is 90Km/h.

However, different speed limits may apply in case of bends and specific geographic/ weather conditions – always check local signage.

Strade provinciali are Italy’s local roads and go from large, well-kept roads to country lanes.

You do not usually find yourself driving off-road in Italy. However, you may find yourself on dust roads if going to country restaurants or if you are staying in agriturismo.

In these cases, you do not usually need special vehicles, just be prepared to get the car a little dusty!

The speed limit on smaller roads is 50Km/h-70Km/h depending on the road in question – check local signage.

Italian road sign by color

The main colors you may want to familiarize in Italy when it comes to road signs are:

• GREEN: motorways (usually with toll)
• BLUE: extra-urban roads
• WHITE: Local roads
• BROWN: scenic roads, places of cultural interest

Italian speed limits by road

Speed limits depend on the type of road you are on.

The table below gives the general rule however, always follow local speed limit signage as it is common for some roads or part of them to demand a lower limit.

Trust local signage over your GPS system! The GPS is often wrong!

In Italy, follow the following road signals priority, in case of conflicting info:

• The traffic officer, if present, trumps anything else
• Traffic lights / temporary light signals
• Vertical signals (those you see on the side of the road)
• Horizontal signals ( the writing on the road surface)

For reference, here is the Italian speed limit chart

Good to know! Inside towns and urban center, the speed limit goes as low as 30 km/h, often enforced by Autovelox, the camera catching speeding drivers. In doubt, when there are houses around you, slow down!

Italian speed limit signs and checks

Italian speed limit signs are round, with a red circle and a black number inside, which is the top speed accepted.

They may or may not come with the words controllo electronico della velocita’ which means electronic speed limit checks are in place.

How much leeway there is depends on the road, as this is a percentage of the maximum speed allowed.

To be safe, always stay within the limit or no more than 5% over.

Speed limits are enforced more than the speed of some drivers may suggest! Speed in Italy is checked in several ways:

Autovelox: these are machines at the side of the road that take a photo of your registration plate should you pass them at a speed above the legal one.

They are usually marked and locals learn about them: do not be surprised if you see fast cars suddenly slowing down and then going fast again: chances are that are slowing down to be at the right speed on the Autovelox spot!

Autostrada Safety Tutor : this is a newer system that registers your car plate as you go from point A to point B and gauges your average speed, can see if you have lights on or off etc.

These systems mean that there is a check on speed even if you do not see the traffic police on the side of the road.

Trucks and lorries on Italian roads

Trucks and lorries are very common on Italian autostrade, they are huge, often fast, and can make for stressful driving.

Always pay extra attention when there are several on the road and when entering the motorway if there is one incoming: try let them go first.

Lorries tend to only be on the road during the week: traveling at the weekend may give you more holidaymakers traffic but often means there are no trucks to deal with.

Driving in Italian cities

Driving in Italian cities requires a paragraph of its own as this is where things often get complicated!

Italian cities are not car-friendly and my general advice is: once you are in a town to city, ditch the car and walk instead!

The reasons why I recommend you don’t drive in Italian cities are:

Large cities are terribly trafficked . I am from Rome and I can tell you from experience if you find yourself on the ring road at the wrong time, you can easily spend hours there without moving an inch.

Parking in large cities is very hard to find and, in many cities, absolutely wild , with cars left pretty much anywhere at any time, including on pavements (do not copy the locals, fines are steep and yes, they will reach you back home too!)

Italian towns big and small have inner-city areas that are closed to non-resident traffic . These are called ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) and in theory, they are well indicated with signs telling you what areas are off-limits. In practice, this is not always the case.

In many cases, you only see the signs for ZTL if you know you have to look for them: do not expect barriers or very visible markings between the car-free area and the rest of the town.

When you hear horror stories of people getting a huge fine from Italy once they are back home, this is usually where the fine originated from! Accidentally driving into a poorly signaled ZTL and yes, as bad as the signage may have been, the fine is due.

Main rules of the road you need to know to drive in Italy

• You must be 18 to drive in Italy legally (regardless of rules back home).
• A standard license allows to drive cars for up to 9 people including the driver. Above that, you need a different license.
• In Italy, we drive on the right side of the road. Priority is given to those coming from the RIGHT.
• We overtake on the left only. If overtaking is allowed, the marking in the middle of the road is an intermittent white line. A solid white line means no overtaking.
• Turning right on a red light is NOT allowed.
• Headlights must be on even in daylight on extra-urban roads
• Use of seatbelts is compulsory on front and back seats
• Car seats are mandatory for kids up to age 12 / 150cm height.
• An anti abandonment kit is mandatory if traveling with a child under 4
• You need a valid driving license on you at all times. If not from the EU, there is a high chance you also need an International Drivin Permit as well as your license (not instead!)
• You need a hazard triangle sign in the car – this is compulsory and must be on all vehicles
• You need a high-vis jacket any time you leave the car to place your hazard triangle so, in practice, this means you want one IN THE CAR (not in the trunk) at all times.
• Use of hazard lights : in Italy, we use hazard lights to signal a significant slowing down in traffic speed as well as a breakdown. This is important to know and can save your life! If suddenly there is a queue that forces cars to slow down, we use the hazard lights to let the car behind us know. This means you know that there is something happening ahead and you should NOT overtake and should instead slow down yourself. We do not use hazard lights to say ‘thank you’ for letting another car go first. Hazard lights in Italy are always a sign of attention needed ahead .

Understanding directions in Italy

Italian roads are not marked north / south pr east /west like you may find in the US or the UK (southbound, northbound).

Instead, we use the final destination. So for instance if you enter a motorway, you will see it marked as ‘Milano – Napoli’, which are the two extreme points on it.

This is often cause of confusion: big cities can be easy to learn but smaller ones you may well not be familiar with 9I had a terrible time in Tuscany last summer truong to figure out if I needed to follow Arezzo or Grosseto! And I know them he towsn! Imagine if I didn’t!)

The best way to know where to do in Italy is use use a driving app.

Using driving apps in Italy

I use google maps to for navigation in Italy and I find it to be the best.

it is superior to the GPS that comes with car rentals and i have fond it way more accurate than many equivalent apps.

However, google maps is not the gospel!

Often, it does not read ZTLs and it can lead you down a disused road: always double-check local signs and if a road seems too weird to be real, it may well be!

I recommend you also have a paper map on you – get an updated Touring Club one with a good level of detailing and you’re covered.

Parking in Italy

In Italy, parking areas are marked by blue signs with a white P on them. Parking can be free (rarely) or paid (commonly). A as general rule:

BLUE lines are paid parking areas. Look for the pay and display machine and make sure you get the ticket for the time you need: put it well visible inside the car, beside the wheel, so it can be easily checked.

YELLOW lines are usually spaces for disabled: never, ever park here if you are not a disabled permit holder for that area (if you need one, you can usually arrange it with the town municipality ahead of time)

WHITE lines are free parking.

Occasionally, you find parking that is free but timed. In that case, you can use the disk (if it comes with the car, many have it) or just use pen and paper to mark your time of arrival and day.

Place your note on the dashboard so it is well visible.

How are Italian drivers? Are they as bad as they say?

Italian drivers get often described as ‘lawless’ or ‘crazy’.

However, I find the best way to describe is: impatient.

Compared with many other countries, you will find Italians VERY ready to use the car horn and do whatever it takes to pass you if you commit the unforgivable sin of taking your time to understand what way to go.

This is particularly common in some areas such as the Naples / Salerno stretch which is notorious for being very intense in terms of driving style (I myself do not love to drive there, although I do if I must) and feel different, driving wise, than most of the rest of the country.

The best way to deal with Italian drivers beeping at you is: ignore us.

Stay safe, take your time and don’t mind us.

Rules of the road do apply in Italy and Italian drivers are on average very very good.

Do not believe those that say ‘Italians don’t follow road rules / they take traffic laws as suggestions only / they don’t care about their kids and thrown them in with no car seats’ – I hear this all the time and believe me it is not only offensive, it is plain wrong and a huge generalization.

We are not timid drivers but in the vast majority of cases we do follow the rules, we are just very assertive when it comes to taking our space on the road.

Those who do not are the exception, they just happen to be those people remember the most, as they can be scary. But we are by all means not all like that!

Italy is not a crazy car-filled far west, even if the beeping sometimes makes it feel that way!

Italy has a large number of cars on the road and this of course means there are drivers of all types, including very fast, very impatient ones.

So if you are used to quiet and empty nature road, it feels intense. But if you are used to city driving, Italy will be a piece of cake!

Tips for driving in Italy: what you can do to stay safe and sane

When getting ready to drive in Italy, make sure you:

Have the right documents

The documents needed to drive in Italy depend on the country you are from.

Check with your local embassy/consulate if you need an international license and, if entering Italy with your own car, what type of insurance documents may be needed.

You can find an example of what is needed if you are a US driver here

Whether you are driving your own car or a rental, make sure you have all the car documents handy in the glove compartment.

In case of a check, you will be asked for ‘patente’ (driving licence), ‘libretto’ (car documents) and/or car rental docs.

Police road checks are common: don’t worry, just show the documents and you’ll be back on your way in no time.

Get the right car

The right car for Italy is the one you can drive with confidence: no special model is best, nor needed.

If you use an automatic car at home and are not familiar with a driving stick, opt for an automatic car in Italy too, you do not need the extra stress.

Automatic cars have become more and more common in Italy and are now easy to find: however, they are not the default so make sure you specify at the time of booking.

In Italy, electric cars are becoming more common too.

However, they are not always easy to recharge so I highly recommend checking charger availability at your accommodation if opting for an electric one.

Don’t always go for the biggest possible model available. Parking large cars can be tricky in smaller centers: evaluate carefully how big a car you actually need.

Get a car seat for the kids

If visiting Italy with kids , make sure you get a car seat for them, read facing for babies and young kids and a booster seat once height/age allows.

Check, double-check and triple check the age appropriateness of the seat if getting it via your car rental agency as often you are offered booster seats even after agreeing on a baby capsule.

Car seats in Italy must meet certain standards which may differ from those you use back home. For instance, EU approved car seats, which are required in Italy, do not allow for a chest strap, as they need to have a one-click open system.

If you are considering bringing your own seat, so you have control over quality and size. I recommend you familiarize with Italian car seat rules so you can make an informed decision.

Find here >>> our guide to using car seats in Italy for kids

Watch out for ZTL

I have already warned you about the sneaky ZTLs but it is worth repeating.

ZTL means Zona a Treaffico Limitato (Zone of LImited Traffic) aka areas of town that are only accessible by permit holders.

ZTL areas can be markek by electronic signs with an easy-to-understand traffic light system or they may only me marked by a sign that says ZTL.

Italian towns and cities have limited access city centers and it is safe to assume you cannot drive in there, sign or no sign.

Good to know : entering a ZTL without a permit results in a guaranteed fine that will follow you home. This is one of those instances in which the Italian administration is incredibly effective! Therefore it is best to do all you can to avoid a fine and, in case you get one, pay quickly as it will keep increasing! ZTL fines apply on entering the area.

The best way to avoid ZTLs is to know about them and watch out

When approaching a new town, keep an eye out for signs indicating parking (big Ps on blue or white background).

They usually become more and more frequent as you approach the ztl – they are a good way to know when you are getting close!

Have cash for parking

Bigger parking lots accept cards. However, pay and display machines and smaller lots often do not. Always keep some coins handy.

In some localities, you have scratch and display parking tickets that you buy at the local tabaccaio or newsagents.

If you are staying in accommodation inside a town center, tell them you have a car as they may be able to give you a pass to enter the ZTL (or recommend where to park).

Do not leave valuables in the car

It is very tempting to leave bags and coats in the car however, I highly recommend you do not do this in Italy.

If you need to leave your car full of luggage, make sure you have everything hidden in the trunk and back into your parking space so you know the trunk cannot be accessed.

In most cases, this will mean you are being overly cautious (my Irish husband always thinks I am mad when I do so).

However, it is a simple precaution that can save you lots of time, money and headaches.

Never leave anything valuable visible in the car.

Get both a gps and a paper map

Street signs in Italy can be very confusing and a gps is your best friend. However, don’t follow it blindly!

I had google maps getting straight into a ditch one too many times for me to trust it blindly so my tip is: when getting ready for driving in Italy, get gps but also have an up-to-date paper map as backup!

React quickly to green lights

You know the Italian drivers’ temperament I mentioned above?

A quick way to have it flare up is to be slow at the light when it turns green. In most of Italy, you will get angry beeps if you are less than ready when the light changes: get in gear and ready to go in time to avoid being shouted at!

Pick the right gas

Cars in Italy use petrol ‘senza piombo’ (unleaded petrol) or diesel.

Pumps clearly mark which is which but, if you are from the US, you may need to pay extra attention as the colors tend to be different than back in the States.

This is something I noticed the other way round when we were in the US and I found it rather confusing so I feel it makes sense to let you know, should you find the same while in Italy!

Pumps in Italy are assisted (with staff) or automatic. Cards are accepted in most: Visa more commonly than Amex.

Do not drink and drive. Do not use your phone while driving.

This probably goes without saying but: do not drink and drive.

If you want to go out for dinner and have more than a taste wine or if you are going wine tasting, make sure you get a designated driver, private driver or organized transport. The legal alcohol limit to dive in Italy must not go above 0.5g/l

The same goes for use of mobile phones: only focus on the road. For safety (and to avoid heavy fines)

Useful vocabulary to drive in Italy

• Macchina – car
• Pneumatico – tyre
• Stazione di servizio – gas station / petrol pump
• Autostrada – toll road
• Casello – autostrada toll booth
• Pedaggio – toll
• Telepass (at autostrada toll booth): highway card – most likely something you do not have, unless agreed with the rental agency beforehand
• Controllo electronic della velocita’ – electronic speed control
• ‘In caso di pioggia’ In case of rain (on speed limit signs)
• Disco orario – time disk (for parking)
• Patente – driving licence
• Libretto – car documents (the common sentence you hear from the traffic police is ‘patente e libretto’ which means they want driving licence and all car documents
• precedenza – priority
• Passo carrabile – access gate, do not park
• Autogrill – one of the names of gas stations
• ZTL – Zona traffic limitato (permit holders only)

In case of car accident

In case of accidents:

If the accident doesn’t involve you but causes traffic delays or queues, slow down and activate your hazard lights so the car behind you can also slow down

If you have car trouble and need to stop on the road or, ideally, on the side of the road in the emergency lane, first wear your high vis jacket, then leave the car and place the triangle sign so other cars can see you. The triangle must be placed about 50 meters from your car, so it is well visible by oncoming traffic and they can avoid driving into you.

The main emergency number in Italy is 112. If you need an ambulance the number is 118.

Always ask your car rental company what number to call in case of accident or problems.

I hope you found these tips for driving in Italy useful. Please don’t forget to also find other tips for Italy travel here, covering accommodation, culture, transport and more!

Essential tips for driving in Italy – pin this!

This post was written 18 March 2021 and has now been fully updated.

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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Driving in Italy

Driving Requirements

• Checklist for Driving

Rules of the Road

Driving on the autostrada or toll road, speed traps, road conditions, tips when renting a car.

• GPS Navigation

On-the-Spot Fines

Driving on sundays.

• Frequently Asked Questions

Driving in Italy is not for the unadventurous. While most forgo driving in the cities and rely on public transportation, driving is the main way to access and explore remote areas and small towns and is most often the only way to take in the beauty of the Italian countryside .

Learning when to use a GPS, understanding Italian traffic laws, and knowing how to avoid being caught speeding will help you navigate the roads on your vacation in Italy.

If your driver's license is from the U.S. or other countries outside the European Union, you should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your local license. You'll need to show your IDP if you get stopped by the police for any reason, including if you're in an accident. The IDP is not a license, requires no test, and is basically a translation of your driver's license.

The legal driving age in Italy is 18 years old, but you must have had your license for at least a year to rent a car, and many car rental companies will charge you an extra fee if you’re under 25. Civil liability insurance is mandatory, and visitors have the option of purchasing a Green Card insurance policy, sold at the border, that is valid for 15, 30, or 45 days.

Checklist for Driving in Italy

• Driver's license (required)
• IDP (recommended)
• Proof of liability insurance (required)
• ID/passport (required)
• Reflective safety vest (required to have in car)
• Reflective triangle (required to have in car)
• Spare tire (recommended)
• Fire extinguisher (recommended)

If you know Italian law, you can avoid being stopped by police or photographed by speed and red-light cameras, and return home without incurring a traffic fine. While some of the rules are similar to driving laws in the U.S., some, like the Zona Traffico Limitato , are particular to Italy.

• Seatbelts: According to Italian law, any time you ride in a vehicle that has seat belts, it is compulsory to wear them.
• Children and car seats: Children who are under 36 kilograms (97 pounds) or 150 centimeters (4 feet, 9 inches) must use appropriate car seats or booster seats and must ride in the back of the car.
• Distracted driving: You cannot text or talk and drive while holding a phone. Recent changes to Italy's highway code include stricter penalties for anyone caught using a mobile phone while driving. Fines for drivers caught texting or talking on the phone are hefty, and drivers could also face a suspension of driving privileges of up to two months.
• Alcohol: A blood-alcohol level of more than 0.05 percent is considered legally intoxicated in Italy. Drivers with a level of 0.05 to 0.08 face fines, up to one month in jail, and a community service requirement. However, for adults 21 and under, novices (those who've had a license for less than three years), and professional drivers, the blood-alcohol level is set to 0.0.
• Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL): Do not drive in an area with a ZTL sign or one marked Area Pedonale (limited traffic or pedestrian zones). Most cities have these zones, and even in small towns, you may find them in the historic center, or centro storico . A special permit is needed to drive in a limited traffic zone (which your hotel can usually provide if it's within one). There is usually a camera that takes a photo of your license plate as you enter and you may get a fine in the mail, sometimes months later, even if you don't get stopped right away. Look for a parking lot outside the center—you'll often find one within walking distance or with a shuttle to take you to the center of a town.
• Speed limits: Except when posted otherwise, speed limits apply throughout Italy, including 130 kilometers per hour (81 miles per hour) on highways, 110 kph (68 mph) on non-major highways outside of major urban areas, and 90 kph (56 mph) on local roads.
• Traffic lights: In Italy, it is illegal to make a right turn on a red light even if you stop first. Italy has a three-light system like in the U.S., although there are not many traffic lights.
• School buses: You must stop when a school bus is stopped and unloading and loading passengers.
• Right of way: Yield to traffic on the right when you are at a junction or crossroads. In reality, drivers will not wait for you to proceed if you are hesitant.
• Roundabouts: At roundabouts, yield to traffic that is already in the roundabout. The driver in the roundabout always has the right of way. To exit the roundabout, use your turn indicator signal.
• Parking: When parking on an urban street, park on the right-hand side. In marked "blue zone" areas, you must display a parking disc, valid for one hour, which can be obtained in tourist offices.
• Headlights: Even on sunny days, the law requires you to drive with your headlights on outside of urban areas. Always drive with your headlights on while on the autostrada.
• In case of emergency: Emergency numbers in Italy are 113 for police, 115 for the fire department, and 118 for an ambulance. 

The autostrada is Italy's system of toll roads. Autostrada highways are designated with an A in front of a number (such as A1, the major autostrada that connects Milan and Rome) and signs pointing toward them are green.

The maximum speed limit is 130 kilometers per hour but in some parts slows to 110kph and can be as low as 60kph on some curvy stretches, so watch for posted speed limit signs. You'll take a ticket as you enter the autostrada and pay a toll when you exit, and credit cards do not always work at the toll booth so have cash with you.

Italian drivers tend to drive fast, especially on the autostrada, but are generally not aggressive. But unless you're planning to race in the fast lane, just leave the left lane for passing and stick to the right-hand lanes.

Italy has two main devices for catching speeders, Autovelox and Sistema Tutor . Always be on the lookout for Autovelox, which can be found on the autostrada, on regular highways, and even in some towns. The Autovelox looks like a big box with a sign but inside is a camera that takes a photo of your license plate. You could receive a ticket as late as a year after the incident even if you were driving a rental car. You should also see a warning sign in advance that says Polizia Stradale, controllo electtronico della velocita .

Sistema Tutor is a new system used on some stretches of the autostrada. An overhead camera takes a photo of your license plate as you pass under it. When you pass under the next camera, your speed is averaged between the two points and the average should not exceed 130 kph (81 mph), or 110 kph (68 mph) if raining. You may receive a ticket in the mail or through your rental car company.

Streets in historic city centers are often narrow, winding, and congested and motor scooter drivers will dart in and out of traffic. Riders of bicycles, motorcycles, and other vehicles may ignore traffic signals and traffic flow.

Italy has over 6,000 kilometers (4,000 miles) of autostrada. In rural areas, roads are often narrow and often have no guardrails. In northern Italy in winter, you may encounter fog and low visibility, and most cars in Italy are equipped with fog lamps.

When looking for a car rental, don't be fooled by a company whose prices are much lower than others. It's likely that they will add on additional costs either when you pick up the car or when you return it. Go through a company such as  Auto Europe  that shows all costs upfront, provides 24-hour assistance in English, and includes insurance.

If you are driving a gasoline-fueled car, order  benzina (petrol) , not  gasolio (diesel) , at the pump. Gasoline/Petrol stations are usually open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and you will find 24-hour stations along the autostrada.

Don't Rely Too Heavily on GPS

While a GPS will come in handy for navigation, don't rely on it exclusively. In Italy, it is common to find two (or more) towns with the same name in different regions so be sure to look at your map to see if you are heading the right way.

In addition, a navigator may direct you into a ZTL, or have you turn the wrong direction on a one-way street or even into an alley that ends in stairs. GPS systems do not always reflect the latest road openings and closings, so it's always good to travel armed with a map and an appeal to your sense of direction.

According to Italian law, if a resident of a non-European Union country such as the U.S. violates a traffic law, the violator must pay the fine at the time the ticket is issued. If you do not pay the fine, the police officer may confiscate the car.

Sunday is a good day for long-distance driving on the autostrada because trucks are prohibited on Sundays. Be aware that in summer, coast roads become very congested, especially on Sundays. Roads around the northern lakes are often congested on weekends, too.

Yes, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your driver's license is from the U.S. or another country outside the European Union. If the police stop you for any reason, you will be asked to show your IDP; if you don't have one, you risk getting fined up to 317 euros.

Italy's public transportation system makes it really easy to get around without a car, especially if you're only planning on visiting major tourist cities like Florence, Rome, and Milan. However, if you'd like to explore Italy's small towns and remote areas, you may want to consider renting a car for easier access to those parts of the country.

No, a right turn on red in Italy is illegal.

The Local. "Italy to Fine Phone-Using Drivers Up to €1,700 in Safety Crackdown." April 16, 2019.

European Transport Safety Council. "Drink-Driving in Italy." Accessed September 20, 2022.

U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy. "Transportation and Driving in Italy." Accessed September 20, 2022.

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Driving in Italy: what you need to know as a foreign tourist

Driving during your trip to Italy can be one of the best experiences of your life – but you have to make sure you are familiar with the local regulations first. To help you out, we have created this extensive Q&A guide answering all the most popular questions about driving in Italy.

Since we live in Slovenia, Italy is only a short drive away and we often take our car on road trips through the country. So, we gathered a lot of experience driving in Italy as foreigners.

In this guide, we will share the basic rules and tips for foreigners about driving in Italy that will make your trip easier.

RECOMMENDED

Need to rent a car in italy.

We always use Discover Cars for hiring our cars abroad, whether in Italy or anywhere else. They are the best price aggregator platform out there and allow you to find the best deals, including local and international providers!

Driving in Italy: General guidelines

We are not going to lie – drivers in Italy have a bad fame. Most people think it is very hard for foreigners to drive in Italy because of the extremely narrow roads and crazy drivers.

Based on our experience, this is not true for the entire country. There are destinations where we really don’t recommend driving by yourself (especially if you don’t have a lot of experience) but there are others where having a car is essential. 

If you travel to the Dolomites , for example, you will see that the roads are very good and without a car, you will be extremely limited. So renting a car for your trip may be your best choice.

Here are some of the basic things to know before driving in Italy:

• In Italy, you should drive on the right side of the road
• You should get used to roundabouts, they are everywhere
• Get familiar with the speed limits and basic signs ( more on this later ). Speeding tickets can cost between €30 – €1000 depending on how much you were exceeding the speed limit.
• You will have to pay tolls for driving on the highways, and they can be quite expensive
• Italy has a strict limit of 0.5 mg of blood alcohol content (BAC) allowed. In practical terms, this means that you should not have more than a glass of wine if you intend to drive. This rule does not apply to young drivers – for them, the limit is 0 BAC.
• The minimum age requirement to drive a car in Italy is 18 years old.

Do you need an International Driving Permit for driving in Italy?

Tourists can drive in Italy but depending on the country that issued their original driving license, they may need to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well. Here we broke down the main rules:

• EU: If your driving license was issued by any other EU member state, you do not need an International Driving Permit for driving in Italy
• USA: Americans need to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving in Italy
• UK: You do not need an IDP if you will be driving in Italy with a UK driving license

If you need information for other countries, we recommend checking the relevant authorities websites.

Speed limits when driving in Italy

The speed limit in Italy varies depending on whether you are driving in a city, highway or rural area. Generally speaking, the speed limit for cities is 50km/h for residential areas, and 110-130km/h for highways or motorways. Check the image below to help you get a better picture.

The fines for violating the speed limit can be quite high, so we strongly recommend sticking to the official limits at all times. That being said, there is a 5% tolerance on the speed limit, which is applicable to radar cameras and police checks.

Does Italy have speed cameras?

When driving in Italy, you will notice that there are speed cameras located on the highways and smaller streets as well. On the highways, most of the time there is a sign warning you about the upcoming speed camera, so it is quite easy to spot them.

Not all speed cameras in Italy use flash when you cross the limit, so don’t let that fool you. The speed cameras are fully functional even during the night, with or without flash.

Driving in Italy: Road conditions

It is very hard to give a general assessment of the road conditions in Italy because the situation is different depending on the region.

Generally speaking, the north of the country has better roads – they are more spacious, in great condition, and often have an emergency lane available.

When driving in the southern regions, the picture can be quite different. For example, on the Amalfi Coast, it is quite common to see extremely narrow streets where you need to be extra careful not to scratch your car when driving ( and pray that a bus won’t come from the other direction hahaha) .

One thing that is quite standard across the country is that the highways normally have quite good conditions.

Need to rent a car for your trip? Get a quote here!

Information about highways & tolls when driving in Italy

Highways in Italy are usually toll roads that operate in a closed system. This means that you will get a ticket when you enter the highway and when you exit, the toll price will be calculated depending on the length of your journey.

The toll booths are automated and most of them accept both cash and card payments. Another payment option is to purchase an electronic toll card (ETC) that allows you to pay for the tolls automatically.

Pro tip : Some car rental companies will offer the ETC so you won’t have to stop at every toll booth. We recommend you check this with the rental provider before you pick up the vehicle so you know what to expect when passing through tolls.

Read more: All about renting a car in Italy

How do you avoid tolls in Italy?

As I mentioned, the toll prices in Italy can get quite high so the cost of your trip will add up fast if you intend on driving long distances.

To make the trip more budget-friendly, there is often an alternative route that goes through local roads only, avoiding all tolls. You can do this directly at Google Maps by selecting the function to avoid tolls.

However, this often means that you will be adding quite some time to your trip. Taking local roads means lower speed limits and more kilometers in total, so make sure you consider all of this before deciding the optimal route for your trip. For traveling long distances between major cities, getting a train may be a better option. Check the train options here.

Driving in Italy: Parking

Parking can be difficult in Italy in larger cities, especially within the city center. The number of parking spots available in the center is usually very limited, and you may get better luck finding spots in the parking located in the outskirts of town.

Public parking is normally payable with the parking meters by the side of the road.

The parking spots in Italy are color-coded: white, blue, yellow, and pink.

• White parking spaces are free of charge
• Blue parking spaces are paid
• Yellow parking spaces are reserved for handicapped, taxis, or official vehicles
• Pink parking spaces are for expectant mothers and mothers traveling with babies or infants

There are also private garages that offer parking in all major Italian towns. If you don’t want to deal with the stress of finding and dealing with public parking, parking in private garages may be the best option for you. 

Pro tip: If you will be renting a car in Italy, the best thing to do is make sure your hotel or accommodation offers parking, so you do not have to worry about this when coming back to your hotel after a day of exploring.

Final verdict: Is it worth it to drive in Italy?

Driving in Italy can be a great way to explore the country, as it allows you to take your time and visit places that may not be accessible by other means of transportation. Since the Italian regions are very different from one another, this is our general opinion:

– For traveling in Northern Italy , including Tuscany, it is very worth renting a car and driving by yourself. The roads are good and you will be able to explore much more if you have the freedom of having your own vehicle.

– For traveling in the Southern part of Italy , including the Amalfi Coast and the Naples region, you may not need a car and you may save some stress by sticking with public transport such as trains.

FAQ: The most popular questions about driving in Italy

What documents do i need to drive in italy.

• – A valid driver’s license
• – An International Driving Permit (IDP) depending on where your license was issued
• – A valid ID document with a photo (normally the passport for tourists driving in Italy)
• – Vehicle documents, including proof of insurance

Can you drive in Italy without insurance?

No, it is not possible to drive in Italy without insurance. In order to drive any vehicle, whether as a tourist or local, you must have the vehicle insured and be able to prove it in case you are stopped.

We always recommend asking for all the information about vehicle insurance at the car rental company before you take the vehicle, to make sure you are properly covered. When booking with Discover Cars , they offer a full coverage option so you won’t have to worry about a thing.

Don’t forget travel insurance! It’s always important to make sure you are covered in case something happens during your trip. Get a quote here!

Do I need a green card to drive a hire car in Italy?

No, you are no longer required to have a green card for driving in Italy, but you must be able to prove that the vehicle you are driving is properly insured.

When hiring a car, insurance documents should be provided by the rental company so make sure you ask for it before getting behind the wheel.

Who has the right of way on Italian roundabouts?

On roundabouts in Italy, drivers must give way to vehicles that are already in the circle. Drivers entering a roundabout should yield to these vehicles and not attempt to overtake. Additionally, vehicles exiting the roundabout must always indicate their intent with a turn signal.

Is it difficult for an American to drive in Italy?

If you are attentive and have basic knowledge of the rules, it is not difficult for an American to drive in Italy. Some of the main things to note are:

• Driving in Italy means you will have a LOT of roundabouts instead of crossroads, like in the US. Get used to them.
• Don’t cruise on the left lane on the highways, it is meant for passing.
• Pay close attention to speed limits as there are often radars and police checks.
• If driving on Italian highways, get ready for the tolls (they are pricey).

Is it illegal to use your phone while driving in Italy?

Yes, it is illegal to use your phone while driving in Italy. This includes talking on the phone or texting. If you are caught using your phone while driving, you can expect to receive a fine or other penalties.

What does SS mean on Italian roads?

The SS on Italian roads stands for ‘strade statali’ or ‘state highways’. These are typically toll roads and you may need to pay a fee to use them. It is important to be aware of this when planning your route and budget accordingly.

What are the blue speed signs in Italy?

The blue speed signs in Italy indicate the minimum or recommended speed for that section of the road.

Can you turn right on a red light in Italy?

No, you cannot turn right on a red light in Italy. The red light means stop. This is considered a traffic violation and can result in a fine or other penalties if you are caught.

Do I need snow chains to drive in Italy?

Snow chains may be necessary when driving in some parts of Italy during the winter months. This is especially true if you are planning to drive up into the mountains.

We hope we have helped you make a decision whether or not to drive in Italy. In general, the best thing to do is to do some research on the region you plan to visit – some regions are great for driving but others are best explored by train. We are big fans of road trips so whenever possible, we always prefer exploring a country by car.

Even though driving in Italy is something that often has a bad reputation for being quite dangerous, we believe that if you get familiar with the rules and documents required, you can have a great time!

Read our other driving guides

• Driving in Portugal
• Driving in Slovenia
• Driving in Croatia
• See all driving guides

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Italy, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

• Flights : Get affordable flights to Italy on  Skyscanner.com . 
• Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
• Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
• Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
• Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.
• SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

Fernanda is the Brazilian half of Mauka. Originally from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Fernanda is also part Italian. After having lived in several countries such as the Netherlands and the UK, she ended up moving to Slovenia with Edo. Traveling is her biggest passion and she is always looking for new places to explore - be it on another continent or a hidden hike close to home.

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17 Must-Know Tips for Driving in Italy

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Driving in Italy was a huge fear of mine for far too long. Despite traveling in Italy several times a year, having lived in Italy, and having traveled to most of Italy’s regions, I had done all of my exploring by train because driving seemed too hard.

A few years ago, I was hired for a campaign in the Gargano region of Puglia and could only get there by car. I was terrified . Not only was this my first time driving in Italy, this was SOUTHERN Italy. Don’t people say the south is the worst for driving?!

Then I actually drove through Italy — and I was shocked by how easy it was. Embarrassingly easy. The autostrada was big, beautiful, and smooth the entire way. Finding my way into the tiny town of Carpino was straightforward with GPS. Later, I drove down to Alberobello and easily found a parking space on the edge of the city center, just a five-minute walk from the famous trulli houses.

I really hadn’t expected it to be that easy. It made me realize how much I had been missing by being afraid to rent a car.

Today, a lot of my readers contact me about their Italy trips and want to know two things: if they really have to drive, and how scary it is to drive in Italy. I’ve done so many of these emails this year that I decided to write out a full guide including everything you need to know so I can just send them the post in the future.

Get ready to learn everything you need to know about driving in Italy!

Table of Contents

Italian Driving FAQ

Don’t believe the movies! Italian drivers aren’t as bad as they say. You should know that Italian drivers do tend to be a bit impatient, though.

Tuscany and Puglia are my two favorite regions for driving in Italy . Roads are in good condition and there’s so much to see in the countryside that you can’t get to by train.

You won’t be asked for an international driving permit at the rental desk, but you will need one if you get pulled over by the police, so it’s smart to get one. Americans can get one for $20 at AAA.

I recommend avoiding driving in major cities in Italy, especially Naples and Palermo , which tend to have the worst driving in the country.

You get a ticket when you enter toll roads, and you pay it on the way out . I recommend keeping cash on hand to pay tolls as sometimes the credit card machines won’t work.

Italian Drivers

Do you really need to worry about Italian drivers? Not as much as movies would have you believe. There’s a stereotype of the crazy Italian driver, speeding around corners, ignoring the rules of the road, and making obscene gestures to everyone that displeases him. It’s a bit exaggerated.

There are some parts of Italy where the driving is rough: Naples and Palermo are probably the worst, along with other big cities in the south like Catania. Rome can be a bit rough, too. But this is by no means representative of the whole country.

Northern Italy — anything north of Rome — is quite civilized when it comes to driving. Some people say that the further south you go, the worse the driving gets. “The south” is a pretty big place, though, and driving in much of the rural south is more relaxed than in cities.

So what do you actually have to know about driving in Italy?

Italian drivers are impatient. If you don’t hit the gas the moment the light turns green, you will get honked at. If you wait too long to pull onto the highway, you’ll get a similar reaction.

Safety is the most important thing. Don’t let peer pressure lead you into pulling off when you’re not ready. But keep a close eye on the traffic lights nonetheless.

Italian drivers are not great about turn signals. There are two kinds of drivers in Italy: drivers that don’t use their turn signal ever, and drivers that keep the turn signal on the whole time.

(One of my funniest memories in Italy was seeing two little old men piled onto a motorbike on a narrow street in Florence, huge smiles on their faces, the blinker on the whole time. I laughed so hard!)

Italian drivers value being fluido . If there’s an empty space, clearly this is meant to be filled by the driver. For this reason, Italian drivers often get on your butt a little closer than you’d like.

Italian drivers WILL be demonstrative if they don’t like your driving. Yeah, the hand gesture thing is true. Don’t worry about minor gaffes; they’re not going to chase you down or anything.

Requirements for Driving in Italy

If you’re planning on driving in Italy, you obviously need a driver’s license. You must be 18 years old to drive in Italy, and you’ll pay extra on your car rental if you’re under 25.

Do you need an International Driving Permit? You do if you get pulled over by the police, so it’s a good idea to have one no matter what. It’s basically a translation of your license. If you’re American, you can get one at AAA for about $20. Bring two passport photos.

Some Italian road rules to know: In Italy they drive on the right side of the road. On three-lane roads, the right lane is the slow lane and the left lane is the passing lane. At crossings, vehicles on the right have the right of way. In short, always yield to the right.

Keep in mind that turning right on red is not permitted in Italy. Seat belts are required in Italy and you can be fined if you don’t wear one.

Italian car rentals should come with a safety vest and reflective triangles in the trunk, which you are required to use if you need to pull over due to car trouble. It’s a good idea to travel with a spare tire as well.

Best Areas for Driving in Italy (and where to take the train instead)

Every trip to Italy is different, and not every trip calls for the same kind of transportation. Some areas are more suited to driving, while others are better done by train.

Northern Italy tends to have more developed public transportation than Southern Italy, with trains that are faster and run more often. Trains in much of the south have fewer routes or run slower and less often. Rural areas are better explored by car, while urban areas are better explored by train.

Even so, destination is not the only factor here. If you’re traveling in a group or you have young kids with lots of gear, driving is probably the best option for you. If you’re on a low budget, you can cobble together a cheaper trip by slow trains and buses.

And if you want to stay at an agriturismo , an Italian farmstay, in many cases you’ll need to have a car. Staying in an agriturismo is an Italian tradition and not to be missed! Though occasionally agriturismi are walking distance from public transportation or the family will pick you up and drop you off in town.

Good Italian Regions to Explore by Driving

Tuscany. If you want to explore lots of different towns in Tuscany, driving is the best way to do it. The scenery is like a painting and you’ll constantly want to stop for photos! I particularly love exploring the Val d’Orcia in Southern Tuscany by car. And don’t miss out on the regions of Umbria and Le Marche, which have a similar vibe but are cheaper and less touristed.

Puglia. The heel of Italy’s boot has some public transit connections, including to Monopoli , Polignano a Mare and Lecce , but the real magic happens when you drive to towns like Alberobello, Locorotondo, Ostuni, and Matera in next-door Basilicata.

The Dolomites, Valle d’Aosta, and anywhere in the mountains. Public transportation is often limited in Italy’s mountainous regions, and you need a car to get to the good hiking areas. I did the Dolomites by bus and it was a bit of a pain; I couldn’t imagine doing Valle d’Aosta any other way than by car.

Sardinia. Sardinia is the best place for a beach vacation in Italy; these beaches look like they’re plucked from the Caribbean. Whether you’re exploring the coast or the rugged interior, you’ll have a much easier time exploring Sardinia by car.

Sicily. The driving in Sicily can be aggressive, but the public transportation options are a bit limited and it’s the best way to see the island in depth. Sicily is one place where I found it helpful to have someone to navigate and keep an eye out for rogue cars.

Bad Italian Regions to Explore by Driving

Naples and Palermo. These two cities have the worst, craziest, most aggressive driving in Italy. Do not even think of driving within these cities. But outside is okay! Just grab your rental car from the airport so you can avoid the city center. (One exception: Rome. The airports are far from the city.)

A typical Rome-Florence-Venice route, with or without Milan, Bologna , or Naples. Those cities are well-connected and have frequent train departures, including the pricier fast trains. Trains are a much easier way to travel this route.

Emilia-Romagna’s cities. Italy’s best food region is home to cities including Piacenza, Parma , Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, Faenza, and Rimini, all in a row on a straight train line. Other train lines lead to Ravenna and Ferrara. For this reason, this region is better explored by train, supplementing with the occasional taxi when you need it.

The Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is spectacular, but the narrow, cliff-hugging roads are absolutely terrifying, especially when you have to squeeze past giant buses! I only recommend this for expert drivers who thrive on adrenaline. You can get around by a mix of buses and ferries, and trains run a bit further away from the coast.

Venice. Venice’s roads are canals. There is no reason to have a car in Venice; it will sit in a parking lot on the mainland. If you’re planning a longer trip, start your rental after you leave Venice.

Aeolian Islands . While cars are allowed on a few of the islands, there’s no reason to have a car there.

Rent a Car for Part of Your Trip

Lots of people assume it’s an either/or situation — but you don’t have to have a car for your entire trip! You can just rent a car for a few days of a longer trip. This is something that I recommend often to my readers who want to explore Tuscany on top of their Rome-Florence-Venice route.

Start in Rome, take the train to Florence, spend a few days in Florence, then either rent a car for a few days to explore Tuscany while staying at an agriturismo and return it in Florence, or get a one-way car rental and drop it off in Venice afterward, exploring small towns along the way.

If you’re a bit nervous about driving in Italy but want to see the countryside, I think a few days of easy, beautiful driving in Tuscany is a smart choice. You could also rent a car in Milan or Torino and explore the lakes and vineyard of Piemonte.

When my friend Cailin and I did our big northern Italy road trip , we elected to do it by train and bus — but navigating the Dolomites without a car was a bit of a pain. It was mostly by bus, required multiple changes, and they didn’t run super often. Next time, I’m definitely renting a car in the Dolomites.

Rent the Right Car

Renting the right car is absolutely critical for your trip to Italy. First off, double-check whether the car is manual (stick-shift) or automatic. Automatic cars tend to be more expensive and less common than manual cars.

Italian cars are on average much smaller than American cars. (Honestly, whenever I go home to the States, I get reverse culture shock seeing the huge SUVs and trucks!) This is handy for driving down narrow roads, but keep in mind you won’t have a gigantic truck for your luggage.

Keep in mind that you may be charged a large hold on your credit card while you have the car. Double-check what this hold is in advance because sometimes it can be surprisingly large.

Finally, you should rent your car as early as possible. Since COVID began, there have been rental car shortages all over the world, and Italy is no exception. Rent a car the moment you’ve finalized your trip dates.

You can check car rates and availability here on RentalCars.com.

Italian Roads

There are three main kinds of Italian roads that lead through the country. You can learn about them on the Autostrada Website .

Autostrade (the plural form of autostrada ) are large toll highways designated by an A before the number. You get a ticket when you get on and pay it when you get off. (See more on how to pay tolls below.) These Italian highways have several lanes and allow cars, trucks, and vans, but not motorbikes.

Is the autostrada worth it if you have to pay tolls? I think so. You’ll have a faster, more direct journey with smooth roads and less traffic.

The speed limit on the autostrada is 120 km per hour (about 75 mph) but many people exceed that. Use the left lane for passing only.

Trucks are banned on the autostrada on Sundays, which makes it a nice day for long-distance driving.

Strade Statali

Strade statali (the plural form of strada statale ) are Italy’s national roads. These can vary enormously in size and quality; you have both major routes and smaller roads in this category.

The speed limit on strade statali us usually 90 km per hour (about 56 mph), but there will be signs in areas where the speed limit is slower for safety reasons.

There are also roads called strade regionali , strade provinciali , and strade comunali , which are the same driving experience as trade statali, only they’re managed by regional, provincial, and local governments respectively.

How to Pay Italian Tolls

You will likely have to pay tolls on an Italian road trip at some point. Tolls are on autostrada roads and vary quite a bit regionally — they tend to be more expensive in the north than the south.

When you get on the highway, you pass through a gate to take a ticket, and you pay it when you get off the highway. DO NOT go through the blue or yellow and blue gate marked Telepass — this is only for people who pay for a Telepass subscription, and your rental car does not have it included unless you requested it specifically (most car rental companies do not).

On the way off the highway, you hit a row of toll booths pay either by cash, credit card, or Telepass. Again, avoid the Telepass lane.

Lines are longest in the cash lanes. Speaking anecdotally, I’ve never had an issue with a credit card, but every Italian I know only pays tolls in cash. Too many of them have been burned on a faulty credit card machine before.

What happens if the credit card machine messes up? You might get a slip telling you to pay at a post office, or online. Or if the machine just doesn’t work at all, you’ll have to back up and go into a cash lane, which is a harrowing experience.

For that reason, I would recommend having cash ready for tolls — lots of 1 and 2 euro coins, or crisp 5 and 10 euro bills.

Italian Driving Laws

It’s important to know that you don’t need to be pulled over by the Italian police to get a fine. There are cameras everywhere in Italy, and they can catch you breaking the law for speeding, running red lights, or entering a ZTL (limited traffic zone).

If that happens, these fines will follow you back to your home country. Your rental company will be alerted and you’ll have to pay through them. Sometimes you’ll find out months later, or as late as a year later.

For that reason, drive like the cops are watching, even when nobody’s around! Keep an eye on those ZTLs and speed limit signs.

If an Italian police officer pulls over a non-EU resident for a driving violation, you must pay the fine on the spot. You can do this with a credit card.

Using your phone while driving is against the law. Do not talk, text, or do anything else while holding your phone. Don’t do this anywhere, not just in Italy.

Turning right on red is against the law, even if you stop first. As a Massachusetts native, that was a surprise for me.

Headlights are required on the autostrada. Even if it’s the middle of the day. Technically headlights are required outside urban areas, though I rarely see this in practice.

Do not pass school buses that are loading or unloading passengers. This can get you a HUGE fine.

Seat belts are required by law. Again, a smart rule for anywhere.

The legal limit for drunk driving in Italy is 0.05%. This is lower than in most US states. Do not drink and drive — not even a little bit. Save your drinking for after your car is parked for the night.

See below for information on car seats in Italy .

GPS Isn’t Always Accurate

As much as we want to believe that Google Maps is all-knowing, that isn’t always the case in Italy. Every now and then you’ll be guided down a street that doesn’t exist, or routed through an off-limits ZTL.

Again, I’ve found this to be more common in the south than the north. But who knows — maybe GPS will end up working perfectly for you.

Either way, feel free to use GPS, but also familiarize yourself with the route beforehand, keep an eye on road signs, and be prepared if you need to take a slightly different route. Some people like to buy a paper map, but I don’t think it’s necessary unless you’re spending time in very rural areas.

Understanding the ZTL

ZTL stands for Zona Traffico Limitato , or a limited traffic zones. These are areas in cities where driving is limited to residents and people who have permits. Traffic is limited for congestion and pollution reasons.

ZTLs tend to be in old towns or city centers in Italy, wherever the small, pretty, cobblestone-y part is.

Look for signs that say ZTL and do not enter the area! Occasionally ZTLs are only during certain times of day, but usually they’re 24/7.

It’s important to know that your might have to walk to your accommodation if it’s in a ZTL. If you’re not sure of the parking situation, talk to your accommodation. Some hotels occasionally give permits for guests to park in ZTLs, but you shouldn’t rely upon this.

There are often places to park on the edge of a ZTL.

Parking in Italy

Parking is plentiful in Italy, and the whole country seems to abide by the same system. White parking spots are free, blue parking spots are paid, and yellow spots are for disabled parking or residents. 98% of the time, there will be a machine near paid parking spots.

Keep a photo of your rental car’s license plate on your phone because you’ll often need to enter the number at the parking meter. Print out the receipt and put it on your dashboard.

What if there’s no machine? In Reggio Calabria, we couldn’t find the parking machine anywhere near our spot. Instead, we paid by app. The MyCicero app and EasyPark Italia apps are ways to pay for parking. (Then again, one app asked us to print the receipt, which was ridiculous.)

Take a look at the signs to see the limits and if there are times when parking is prohibited (like for street parking).

There are also private parking garages and parking lots in various Italian cities. These tend to be most expensive.

Recently, Charlie and I stayed at a guesthouse in Tropea, Italy, in the heart of the ZTL, so we parked our car just outside the ZTL in a white parking spot. We literally left it there for the full 48 hours we were in town.

Gas Stations in Italy

Gas stations in Italy have a few quirks that you should know about.

First off, make sure you get the right gas. The word for unleaded is senza piombo and the word for diesel is just diesel .

Secondly, there are often two different prices for the same unleaded gas. Fai da te is self-service gas you pump yourself for a lower price. Servito is when someone pumps for you for a higher price overall. These prices are listed on the pumps. Don’t make the mistake of pumping yourself at the servito pump and paying for the privilege! (I’m speaking to you, New Jersey.)

Gas stations usually take international credit cards, but you can sometimes have issues if it’s not a chip and pin card. (A chip and pin card is smart to have before traveling in Europe, and most American credit cards are wising up and adding these. You should get one before your trip either way.)

Some gas stations require prepayment. If you’re not able to pump for some reason, it probably requires prepayment.

Occasionally Italian gas stations don’t take credit cards, so it’s wise to have some cash on you (20 euros should be enough to get you to the next city).

Make sure to fill your tank before you return your rental if that’s a condition of your rental (it usually is).

And don’t forget that there should be a little arrow on the gas gage telling you which side of the car your gas pump is on.

Car Seats in Italy

If you’re exploring Italy by car with kids, you’ll need to find proper car seats. In Italy, car seat requirements fulfill the requirements of the EU and are determined by size and weight of the child. Children up to 1.5 meters (4’9″) must be in an approved restraint system, either a car seat or booster seat.

The word for car seat in Italian is seggiolone .

So which kind do you need? Take a look at the chart:

Group 0: Up to 10 kg/22 lbs (about 12 months old) — Rear-facing car seat. Must be in the rear of the car.

Group 0+: Up to 13 kg/29 kg (about 24 months old) — Rear-facing car seat. Must be in the rear of the car.

Group 1: 9-18 kg/20-40 lbs (about nine months to four years) — Rear-facing car seat for up to two years old IF indicated by model instructions; forward-facing for all other models. Must be in rear of car.

Group 2: 15-25 kg/33-55 lbs (about three to six years) — Forward-facing booster seat with arm rests, with seatbelts that tie to it, either in the front or the rear of the car.

Group 3: 22-36 kg/49-79 lbs (about five to twelve years) — Forward-facing booster seat without arm rests, either in the front or the rear of the car.

Keep in mind that seat belts are required for all passengers in Italy, and you can be fined if kids aren’t wearing one.

Be sure to double-check with your car rental company before you arrive. Some of my parent friends have told me they were given the wrong kind of car seat and had to correct them.

And when it comes to pit stops, you can’t beat the Autogrill. These are the best spot for pee breaks and snacks. Some Autogrills have play areas for kids.

Safety Tips for Italy Driving

The biggest safety tip is not to leave your belongings in your car. Seriously. If you leave your purse, wallet, or something else on the seat, you’re pretty much asking someone to break into your car.

Instead, keep your valuables on you, and keep the rest of your luggage locked up in your accommodation when possible.

But what if you’re doing a road trip and visiting a few towns along the way and have a car full of luggage? Keep your luggage in the trunk. If possible, backing into a parking space with your trunk against a wall is another layer of safety.

Watch out for cyclists. Italy is a popular destination for cyclists, especially scenic areas like the Dolomites and the Amalfi Coast. Because roads can be narrow, sometimes you might need to wait a while before you can overtake them safely.

Keep an eye out for potholes. Rural areas and especially southern rural areas tend to have a lot of potholes. You could also experience what just happened to us — you drive several miles down a rural road and find it completely blocked by construction, with no option but go all the way back!

Read more: Top 10 Travel Safety Trips for Women

Enjoying the Autogrill is one of the essentials of an Italy road trip! Autogrills are rest stops, and you’ll find them throughout the country. Sometimes they’re on a bridge over the autostrada, accessible from both sides.

A typical autogrill is home to a bar (a bar in Italy is more like a cafe), with all the caffeinated beverages and light snacks you could want. There is usually a restaurant on site with pizza, pasta, and more. And the food quality is far better than what you’d get at a fast food restaurant.

But the best part is the market. You can find all kinds of high quality groceries here, and this is a great spot to pick up a block of parmigiano reggiano, some nice cured meats, or provisions for a picnic.

I remember in summer 2020, navigating the shutdowns of COVID as I tried to get home to the Czech Republic, when Charlie and I drove from Croatia into locked-off Slovenia and finally Italy. We stopped for a cappuccino at the first Autogrill in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and it was so good, it nearly brought me to tears.

Driving in Italy is not as scary as you think.

If there’s anything I want you to take away from this post, it’s that you don’t need to be scared of driving in Italy. Many of the stereotypes are outdated and inaccurate, and places with challenging driving like Naples are exceptions, not the rule.

And while there might be a lot of rules in this post, don’t let that dissuade you. There are a lot of rules in your country, too; it can be overwhelming to see them all in one place.

If you’re looking for a gentle introduction to driving in Italy, I recommend renting a car for just part of your trip and exploring the countryside for a few days. Tuscany is a fantastic place to do this if you’re on a typical Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary.

And if you’re up for a longer road trip in Italy, there are so many great places. Puglia is wonderful in the south. The lakes and mountains are wonderful in the north. Sicily is a bigger challenge, but badass and worth it.

Go enjoy your Italy trip — I think you’re going to love it!

Planning a Trip to Italy:

• What NOT to Do in Italy
• Solo Female Travel in Italy: Is it Safe?
• How to Stay at an Agriturismo in Italy
• 40 Italy Landmarks to Experience Once In Your Lifetime
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime
• 30 Italian Cities To Visit Once In Your Lifetime

Cool Places in Southern Italy:

• Tropea, Italy: A Spectacularly Situated Beach Town
• The Stunning Trulli of Alberobello, Italy
• 16 Fun Things To Do In Sorrento
• 17 Fun Things to do in Bari, Italy
• 16 Fab Things to do in Lecce, Italy
• 15 Best Things to do in Monopoli, Italy
• 17 Fun Things to do in Matera, Italy

Cool Places in Sicily:

• 22 Best Places to Visit in Sicily
• The Joys and Challenges of Traveling in Sicily
• Where to Go in Eastern Sicily
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily
• Complete Guide to the Aeolian Islands, Sicily
• Aci Trezza: A Laid-Back Coastal Town in Sicily
• Visiting Sicily in the Winter: Worth it or not?
• 30 Iconic Dishes To Try In Sicily

Cool Places in Northern Italy:

• Three Weeks in Northern Italy: An Itinerary
• Parma, Italy: A Colorful, Artsy, Delicious Town
• Where to Stay in Rome: Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation
• Three Days in the Dolomites: A South Tyrol Getaway
• Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy
• The Immaculate, Bursting Mosaics of Ravenna, Italy
• 25 Best Food Experiences in Emilia-Romagna, Italy
• 23 Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy

Have you driven in Italy? What did you think? Any tips?

Driving in Italy: Laws & Rules of the Road

Italian traffic || creative commons photo by Larry

So, you’ve decided you’re not content with just taking trains and buses to get around in Italy, and you’re going to rent a car. It’s a great way to see parts of the country many visitors miss, and can be an economical way to transport a family or other group – but it’s important to understand Italian driving laws before you get behind the wheel.

Don’t miss my other articles in this series: Driving in Italy 101 and Italian Road Signs 101

Before You Go: Getting an International Driving Permit

Italian law requires foreign visitors who get behind the wheel to carry an International Priving permit (IDP). There’s no test to complete, don’t worry – it basically tells non-English speakers that you’re licensed to drive in your home country. You’ll need to bring your regular driver’s license with you, too, as the two documents work in tandem. Licensed drivers age 18 and up can get an IDP at AAA in the United States for $15 or AA in the UK for £8.50. Find out more, including what’s on the application and what you need to bring, on the AAA website for U.S. drivers and AA website for UK drivers.

Truth be told, I know many people who have never bothered to get an IDP for an Italy trip. Rental car companies don’t ask if you have one, so you won’t be denied a car. I’d still recommend getting one, though, so that if you get pulled over by the Italian police you’ll have all your proverbial ducks in their rows. It’s not a huge expense, and an IDP is valid for one year, so you may be able to get even more use out of it.

Italian Driving Laws

No parking in Milan || creative commons photo by Evan Blaser

For the most part, driving laws in Italy are probably quite similar to driving laws in your country (provided you’re not in the UK or Australia or Japan or another place where driving on the left side of the road is the norm). There are a few rules of the road that are more strictly enforced in Italy than in the United States, for instance, so it’s important to be aware of them.

• Seat belts are to be worn at all times.
• Drinking and driving in Italy is illegal.
• Speed limits in Italy are strictly enforced, and being a foreign driver who “doesn’t know any better” won’t get you out of paying hefty fines. Unless you see a sign indicating otherwise, the speed limits in Italy are 130kmph (80mph) on highways like the Autostrada and range from 50kmph to 110kmph on other roads. Some highways have much lower speed limits than you’d expect due to their proximity to an urban center, so keep your eyes peeled for speed limit changes.
• If you’re driving, mobile phones can only be used hands-free device.
• Driving in a bike lane or bus lane is illegal.
• Children under age 12 aren’t allowed to ride in the front seat of cars, and children up to age four have to be in proper child safety seats.
• Italy, along with many other European countries, requires all cars to carry reflective safety vests. This is in case you need to pull over to the side of the road; putting on the vests before you get out to fix a flat tire makes you more visible to other drivers. Technically, the vests can’t be stored in the trunk, either, since you’d need to get out of the car (without a vest on) in order to get the vest. Check with the rental car company about the location of safety vests before you drive away.
• Headlights must be turned on whenever you’re driving in Italy, whether it’s dark or light out. Daytime running lights is a pretty common feature on newer cars, but if your rental car doesn’t have headlights that automatically turn on you’ll want to remember to do that manually.
• The left lanes of any multi-lane road are really only for passing. You won’t see drivers cruising along in the left lane in Italy with the same regularity you probably do in the U.S. Not only that, Italian drivers tend to keep their turn signals on until they’ve passed the car in front of them. It’s a good way of showing the cars behind you that you’re only using the left lane for passing, and will get back over to the right when you’re done. Don’t just tootle along in the left lane, or you’ll quickly end up with a surly Italian on your tail. Stay to the right unless you’re passing. Period.
• This isn’t so much a law as it is a courtesy to other drivers, but if you’re on a smaller country road and a car comes up behind you and flashes its headlights, that means, “Hey, would you mind terribly scooting over to the right a bit and slowing down to make it easier for me to pass you?” It’s not a sign that they’re angry… Unless you ignore them.

Violations of Italian driving laws means getting a ticket and a pretty sizable fine. Those fines just get worse when you’re late in paying them, which you’ll certainly be since the ticket goes to the rental car company first before it eventually makes its way to you. And the rental car company will likely add a fee for their troubles, too.

In other words? Follow the rules and everyone goes home happy.

Parking Rules in Italy

Car parked in middle of intersection (& crosswalk) in Milan || photo by Jessica Spiegel, all rights reserved

Parking a car in any of Italy’s city centers can be a big hassle. Historic towns weren’t designed with wide streets or space for parking lots, so Italians have had to get creative with where and how they park. That’s not always a good thing, but it’s often amusing. Take, for instance, this story of a few locals repainting a recently-designated bus-only zone .

If you’re staying in a hotel, ask if they’ve got a dedicated parking lot somewhere nearby. If they don’t, ask them where they recommend you look for parking, and whether you’ll need a permit for that area. If you know what to look for, you’ll see indications of parking regulations on streets and curbs.

• Areas painted white are available for anyone to park for free.
• Areas painted blue are pay-to-park. There will be an automated machine somewhere nearby, which will give you a ticket that you’ll put face-up on your dashboard so it can be seen from outside the car. Blue areas offer special residential permits for parking, which some hotels may offer guests. These are time-limited spaces, though, so be aware of how long you’re allowed to stay in a parking spot.
• Areas painted yellow are for handicapped parking and require the appropriate permit displayed in the car. Yellow areas may also be loading/unloading zones.

Some cities and towns have parking lots or parking garages just outside city centers, too, which are easy to use if not always easy to find – some are underground. You can usually find out the location of parking lots and garages from hotels if you’re staying in one, or from the tourist information office.

Pollution Driving Restrictions

Some Italian cities now have restrictions on driving in their urban centers in an effort to reduce pollution levels. You’ll likely be notified of this if you’re renting a car and say that you’re planning to drive in one of the cities with such restrictions, but if you’re not sure you should ask the rental car company.

What these restrictions often mean are surcharges for driving in the city center (called “congestion charges”), though sometimes they prevent some cars from being used on certain days. License plates ending in odd numbers, for instance, would be allowed one day and even-numbered plates the next. Sometimes it’s on an as-needed basis, and some cities have restrictions in place at all times.

I recommend not driving in Italy’s big cities anyway, for a number of reasons, and this just adds another reason to my list.

11 responses to “Driving in Italy: Laws & Rules of the Road”

With a USA driving license, what is the maximum age permitted ? Thank you.

I’m not sure I understand the question, Felix – the maximum age? As in, a person cannot be older than X in order to drive in Italy?

Hello! Can i drive as a tourist with my argentinean licence?

Although the information in the section “Before You Go: Getting an International Driving Permit” is geared toward US or UK drivers, it applies to all non-Italian drivers, so take a look at that part of the article above again. 🙂

Get your IDL. Currently, even in the middle of nowhere, renting a car (or exchanging a rental) they always ask for it (and your passport). Plus, when the Polizia Stradiale, or worse, “nostri amici in macchine azurro scuro e rosso” (Carabinieri, in their dark blue cars with the red stripe) want to see your documenti… and you don’t have it… your trip becomes more, um, interesting.

One other thing – parking. You will still see time limited parking signs (especially in smaller towns: Ore 08:00-20:00 or such)… on a rental there’s a little paper clock thingy on the passenger side windshield you have to set for the current time when you park. If you don’t… or you’re late returning, and the local polizia municipale checks (and they do, occasionally)… I *have* set these ahead at times (like parking at 1300, but setting the clock for 1400) –grins– but it’s like rolling the dice. You DON’T want to pay your parking ticket! (Again, another “interesting” experience…)

Thanks for the advice, Susanna! I’m a cautious person, so I’d always opt for the IDL. I know plenty of people who don’t, though…

Hi , I have found this and the related sites on road signs and driving generally very useful. I wonder if you might be able to add something about approaching roundabouts? I am living in Salento, teaching English, and am getting used to driving here– roundabouts are where I feel most uncertainty about how to proceed. Thank you!

I’m American, so we don’t have the most experience with roundabouts, either!

Hi there, sorry for the little help this will be, but IF its anything like spain: by law the left hand (inside) lane is always for overtaking, even on a roundabouts (it’s stupid- I know). The logical thing is to be on the outside lane to be going 1/4 way around and the inside lane for 3/4 turns on the roundabout. Seeing as one is lawful and the other is logical, drivers generally do either or which creates lots of near misses. I imagine Italy will be like this but cant confirm. My advice would be to stay in the outside lane always until you get more confident and understand the system better and watch for people cutting out sharply in front of you.

I recently got a ticket in Italy but am only dealing with the rental car company at this point. They are telling me that they do not know the details on the ticket. They also said it may take the Italian government up to two years to send me the ticket (in which case the fine will be hefty). Whom do I contact within Italy so as to find out what the ticket is for and pay it off quicker?

Oh, that’s awful – I’m so sorry, I don’t know the answer to your question. If you can get a contact within the rental car company who’s actually in Italy (in the city where you got your ticket) that may help. I’m so sorry!

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Driving in Italy in 2024: Detailed Guide for US Tourists

By Kashaf Razaq

Dreaming of an Italian escape? Ditch the tourist buses and embrace the freedom of driving in Italy yourself!

Wind through rolling vineyards, stumble upon hidden trattorias, and soak in breathtaking coastal views, all at your own pace. driving in italy as a tourist can be a little tricky at first, but we’re here to help you get acquainted with everything you need to know., buckle up as we unveil the tips for driving in italy to navigate the country like a seasoned pro. these tips, curated with the spirit of wanderlust in mind, will enhance your driving experience and ensure you savor every moment of your italy vacation..

Gorgeous scenery while driving in Tuscany, Italy

Embracing the Dolce Vita Pace

Driving in Italy as an American means you have to forget the rush hour mentality. In Italy, time slows down and Italians celebrate a relaxed approach to time. Soak in the stunning vistas, savor leisurely meals, and lose yourself in the rhythm of the countryside. Driving in Italy is about truly living each moment – a lifestyle characterized by savoring each moment. You likely won’t be able to enjoy this type of leisure driving back at home, especially if you’re from a major city. So take your time and enjoy the ride!

Those red-and-white signs might look intimidating, but they mean "pedestrian paradise." When you see these signs, take extra caution, but feel free to stop for a bit! The intricacies of ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) zones, especially common in Italy's city centers, can be confusing to get into. But ultimately, these are communal areas where locals prefer to get around on foot rather than on motor vehicles. Park outside the zone, explore on foot, and let the charm of historic city centers captivate your senses. You’ll have plenty of time to drive in Italy as a tourist later on.

Pro tip: You’ll see more of these ZTL Zones in bigger cities. Driving in Rome, you’ll want to keep your eyes out for these. We recommend parking your car at a designated spot and walking around this beautiful city, however.

Mastering the Roundabouts

Roundabouts are a unique aspect of Italy’s roads, and understanding how to navigate them is critical for a hassle-free trip. Boost your confidence in learning to master roundabouts, which includes yielding to oncoming traffic, smoothly maneuvering through various exits, and turning these circular intersections into a convenient way to crossroads. Embrace the roundabout flow for stress-free driving in Italy as a tourist.

Central Italy highway, driving in Italy

Prioritizing the Autostrada Experience

Prioritize the enchanting experience of Italy's Autostrada, a vast network connecting major cities. Yes, there are driving in Italy tolls, but consider them an investment towards breathtaking beauty. As a part of the journey, these interconnected roads guarantee well-maintained paths and unveil spectacular views of the diverse Italian landscapes.

Tackling Tight Spots

Are you wondering if driving in Italy is difficult? While driving in Italy can be a challenge for some, here’s the key to making it easier: opt for a smaller, more maneuverable car as you navigate Italy's narrow city streets. You'll be grateful for this tip when navigating those alleyways in Cinque Terre or squeezing into that perfectly-sized parking spot in Positano . Patience becomes your ally as you wind through ancient urban areas, showcasing a delicate balance of confidence and courtesy.

Grasping the Zebra Crossing Culture

Respecting pedestrians is deeply woven into the fabric of Italy's driving culture. It symbolizes courtesy and awareness, a reminder that the streets are shared spaces. So, when you approach a crosswalk, remember this simple step:

Ease down and make eye contact with the pedestrians. This small gesture acknowledges their presence and conveys your intention to yield the right of way.

Driving in Rome, Italy

Unraveling Limited Traffic Zones (LTZs)

An amazing experience awaits you in Limited Traffic Zones (LTZs). Leave your car behind and park conveniently at designated areas on the outskirts and embrace the unique atmosphere of these car-free havens. As you stroll through cobblestone streets lined with ancient buildings, every corner whispers stories of a bygone era. Remember, LTZs have specific access times. Align your schedule accordingly to avoid any fines.

Mastering the Art of Parking

Parking in Italy is an art form that requires finesse. Seek out designated areas, utilize city garages, and memorize the rules of 'Parcheggio' zones (designated parking areas in Italian cities) marked with blue lines. This will ensure you spend more time exploring and less time worrying about your vehicle.

The Unique Experience of Refueling

Italian gas stations offer more than just fuel; they serve as cultural hotspots. Grab a delightful "cornetto" pastry, chat with the friendly "nonna" at the counter, and enjoy the local buzz. Some stations even have attendants pump for you (yes, really)!

Amalfi Coast Drive

Your Questions Answered: FAQs About Driving in Italy

1. Is it easy for tourists to drive in Italy? While driving in Italy requires good driving skills, common sense, and careful preparation, it's not impossible for tourists. You can navigate even the most intricate city streets with a reliable GPS. Pre-trip research on traffic regulations, parking options, and driving etiquette can significantly enhance your experience.

2. Can I drive in Italy with a US driver's license? Yes, you can drive in Italy with a US license for up to 12 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, but optional. It might serve you well in the future should you decide to drive in Italy again, or perhaps visit another country. Definitely look into it if this is within your future vacation plans!

3. Can I rent a car in Italy with a US driver's license? Yes, most rental companies accept valid US driver's licenses. However, an IDP can facilitate the process and ease communication. Check with your chosen car rental agency for specific requirements.

4. What side of the road does Italy drive on? In Italy, as in most European countries, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. Be mindful of this change if you're used to driving on the left side. With that said, driving in Italy as an American should not be all that different, at least in terms of direction and peripherals.

Beyond the Guidebook: Embrace the Italian Driving Spirit

Remember, driving in Italy is an experience. It's loud, it's fast, but it's also exhilarating, passionate, and undeniably alive. So relax, roll down the windows, let the Italian driving spirit take over, and sing along to your favorite Italian opera.

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Great Value Vacations has your back! Check out our self-drive packages – which include airfare, accommodations, car rental, and more so you can focus on perfecting your "Buongiorno!". Ciao, and happy driving!

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13 Essential Tips for Driving in Italy

Apr 23, 2020 | Driving in Italy , Gluten-free Travel , Italy , Italy Travel Tips , Le Marche, Italy , Travel , Travel Tips for Italy

Planning the ultimate Italy road trip can be quite a daunting task.  Aggressive Italian drivers, roads that don’t make it on google maps, and limited traffic zones are just a few of the things you’ll encounter when driving in Italy.  Having the right to cruise the autostrada isn’t taken lightly. And, unlike many other countries which allow drivers to get their learners license at 16, in Italy the rules are stricter. Driving lessons in Italy don’t begin until you’re 18, and they’re obligatory for any Italian who wants to cruise the Bel Paese.

THE 10 MISTAKES EVEN SMART TRAVELLERS MAKE

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A Complete Guide To Driving In Italy (And Avoiding Traffic Fines)

If you follow us on Instagram , you know we did a whole road trip driving around Eastern Europe and finishing in Italy last summer. We started from Bulgaria and drove through Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia and spent a few weeks in Italy . It was an incredible trip! We saw so many different landscapes, visited so many places and got a taste of so many cultures.

It was all fun and games until we started receiving speeding tickets and fines in the mail almost a year later 😀

But, interestingly enough, although we drove through all of Eastern Europe, we only received fines and tickets from Italy. Wonder why that is?

Italy is very strict with speed limits and has LOTS of speed cameras. But that’s not all. They are also very serious about enforcing rules on driving in restricted areas, and it is a very easy trap to fall into as a tourist. Not that it’s a “trap” necessarily, all these restricted areas are marked clearly. But you could easily miss them if you don’t know they even exist or didn’t do your research. And these mistakes can be very costly.

So if you want to avoid spending hundreds of Euros on fines after driving in Italy, be sure to read our tips carefully.

Documents Required to Drive in Italy

To drive in Italy, you need to be 18 years of age. But you must have had your driver’s license for at least a year before you can rent a car in Italy. Many rental car companies will charge an extra fee if you’re under 25.

Driver’s licenses from all EU member states are valid in Italy. If you don’t have an EU driver’s license, you will need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Italy. Although car rental companies might not require it to rent you a car, by law you do need to have one. And if you get stopped for a routine check without it, you risk getting a fine of up to €300.

Remember : an IDP is not a substitute for a driver’s license. It’s something you need to carry together with your driver’s license in order for it to be recognized in over 150 countries around the world.

Where to Get an International Driver’s License

Only two organizations in the US issue international driver’s licenses/permits (IDP): the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) . You don’t have to be a member of those organizations to apply for an IDL. You can do it in person at one of their offices or by mail.

Checklist for Driving in Italy:

• Driver’s license (required)
• IDP (required)
• Proof of liability insurance (required)
• ID/passport (required)
• Reflective safety vest (required to have in the car)
• Reflective triangle (required to have in the car)
• Fire extinguisher (recommended)
• Spare tire (recommended)

Now, once you have the right documents, make sure you know the rules for driving in Italy.

General Rules For Driving In Italy

If you know Italian traffic law, you can avoid getting fined or stopped by traffic police. While most laws are pretty similar to those in the US, there are some differences. However, there are some rules like Zona Traffico Limitato that are particular to Italy. Read more on those below.

Seatbelts . By law, anytime you’re driving or riding in a vehicle, you have to wear your seatbelt.

Car Seats . Children under 36 kilograms (97 pounds) or 150 centimeters (4 feet and 9 inches) must use appropriate car seats or booster seats and must ride in the back of the car.

Phone Usage & Driving . You are not allowed to text or speak on the phone and drive, while holding the phone. Hands free talking is allowed. Fines are high and you could get your driver’s license suspended for up to two months.

Right Turns On Red. In Italy, you cannot make a right turn on a red light, even if you stop first.

Headlights:  You must always drive with your headlights on, even on sunny days.

Emergency Numbers: Dial 113 for police, 115 for fire department and 118 for ambulance. This is a little known fact, but you can also always dial 911 and your mobile and it will automatically redirect you to the local emergency number. You can even dial emergency numbers if your cell phone plan is deactivated and  even without a SIM card.

Parking In Italy 

Always park on the right side when parking in urban areas.

White-marked parking spots are free . Blue-marked spots are paid. You can either pay at a dispensing machine and display the receipt on the dashboard in your car, or you can display a blue parking disc inside your car. These discs are available at tourists offices, banks and post offices.

How To Avoid Speed Cameras

As we mentioned before, Italy loves its speed cameras. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Speed traps and cameras are everywhere and they will record an infraction even if you’re driving just 5km above the speed limit. And whether you drive a rental or your own car, you will promptly receive a ticket in the mail up to a year later!

By Italian law, authorities have up to a year after the incident if it’s your own car, or after they receive your information form the car rental agency, to send you a notice. From our experience, they like to wait until closer to 12 months from the date of the infraction. Could be because of bureaucracy or because you might be less likely to remember details and try to contest the fine.

Either way, once you get your notice, if it you don’t pay in 60 days – the fine doubles.

So, in other words, you will want to make sure you don’t get on the radar.

Watch Out For The Cameras

There are a few different types of speed cameras in Italy. The ones on the autostrada (highway) are easiest to spot from a mile away. They look like this:

These cameras are attached to the signage above the highway and can detect speeders in all lanes. They photograph you as you enter the monitored zone and as you exit, to determine your average speed within the stretch. If you’re speeding, expect a ticket in the mail!

There are also speed trap cameras in smaller towns and villages. These are usually on the side of the road or on the sidewalk. They are more difficult to see sometimes until you’re right next to them so it’s good to know where they are in advance (or just don’t speed :)).

Use An App Like Waze

One of the most effective ways to avoid the speed traps is to use an app like Waze or a smart GPS map that will alert you when you’re near one. Waze is especially effective because it’s popular in Italy and up to date with all the active speed cameras. We used it most of the time we were in Italy and it never failed to warn us about speed traps.

Beware Of ZTLs The Most

Italy’s Zona Traffico Limitato  are restricted traffic zones that most cities have. These are usually around the historical centers where streets are narrow and traffic congestion can be out of control if traffic were not restricted.

Only residents or people with special permits can drive in those areas. If your hotel happens to be in such an area, they will be able to provide you with such a permit. However, you have to notify them in advance and make those arrangements. If you end up driving in such an area without a permit and receive a fine, you can contest it if your hotel was in the zone, as long as you can provide proof and receipt of your booking.

At every entrance/exit of such a zone there are cameras that will photograph your car. Your license plate number will be checked in the database and if you don’t have a permit, you will receive a hefty fine. From our experience, ZTL fines are even higher than speeding fines and they can multiply quickly. You will receive a fine for each time your car is photographed by the ZTL cameras. At a minimum that means when entering AND when exiting such a zone. So you can easily end up with multiple fines for the same infraction.

If you mistakenly end up in a ZTL zone and keep driving around looking for a way to get out, you might get photographed multiple times and receive multiple fines. That adds up quickly!!

How To Avoid ZTLs While Driving In Italy

The best you can do is research in advance where the ZTL areas are in the cities you’re planning to visit. They are not marked on Google maps or Waze so you will have to do your own research.

You can also, of course, just look out for the sign that marks these zones, which looks like this:

HOWEVER, keep in mind that some ZTLs are not marked as clearly and in advance as you would expect. Some of the signs are very small and placed at a point where you might not see it until it’s too late to turn back. So our recommendation is to download an app that helps you keep track of the zones easily on your phone. Some of these apps work with Waze and will allow you to sync that information with your route and alert you when you get close to a zone.

Our Experience With ZTLs

For the most part, we didn’t drive near historical city centers. However we did encounter some ZTL zones and ended up entering one by mistake in Siena. The sign was right after an intersection and it was impossible to turn back by the time we saw it.

Once we entered the zone, we had to drive around until we found our way out. And of course, our car got photographed again when exiting the zone as we ended up exiting from the same spot we entered. As we mentioned before, this is pretty much unavoidable. And it’s one of the reasons why these ZTL fines might feel a little predatory to tourists.

As expected, we received the double-fine in the mail almost a year after our trip. Each ticket was for 120 Euro, although we received a 30% discount for paying it early.

Gas Stations

Here’s a little tip that will save you some money driving in Italy. When an attendant fills up your car at a gas station in Italy, you will pay an extra fee (around 15 cents per litre). Luckily there are a lot of self-service gas stations in Italy, so look out for those if you want to save some money.

And if you do that, always make sure you know if you have rented a diesel car or not! Diesel cars are quite common in Italy. Be careful not to put the wrong fuel in your car 🙂

Enjoy Driving In Italy!

Driving in a foreign country can be quite intimidating. It can be extra-intimidating in Italy, not only because the roads are so narrow and confusing, but also because of all the extra rules you have to keep in mind.

But if you’re prepared and do your homework, you will have an amazing experience exploring this beautiful country with the comfort of your own car!

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Thank you!! We are in Italy now and your info is not only timely but essential! I lived here many years ago when it was the opposite and nothing was enforced. Gratefully yours, Anne

Headlights are only required OUTSIDE urban areas though. The further South you get, the fewer people turn them on 😉

Can Italy speeding go against your American license? And how do you pay the ticket online?

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Driving in Italy: 18 Tips on How to Drive as a Tourist

Driving in Italy can be a stressful experience especially if it’s not in the language you speak or the side of the road you drive on. Personally, as long as it’s not city driving it’s well worth getting a car in Italy to explore the towns and regions.

As a tourist, it’s always great to study up on the rules of the road before renting a car and driving yourself around in it. This everything I learnt when driving in Italy. P.s. if you happen to be visiting Tuscany check out the beautiful town of Radda .

Do I need an International Driving License in Italy? (Officially known as International Drivers Permit (IDP))

Renting a car anywhere (apart from your home country) will require you to have your passport and driver’s license. However, some countries also require an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Disclaimer: Hi! this post may contain affiliate links which will take you to online retailers that sell products and services. If you click on one and buy something, I may earn a commission, see my  Affiliate Disclosure  for more details.

For those that hold a European Union driving license you will not need to obtain an International Drivers Permit (IDP). I drove in Italy with my UK license which is the pink format UK license (full license), however, if you are on the green format license (provisional) you will not be able to drive in Italy.

If you have a non-European Union driving license you will need to obtain an IDP before arriving in Italy.

How to Obtain an International Driving Permit?

You can get an IDP at your local association for example;

• American Automobile Association
• Canadian Automobile Association office
• For Australia check Smart Travellers for state-specific IDPs issuers
• New Zealand AA Motoring.

Make sure you go via an official website as there is a scam out there for IDP’s.

It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure that they have the appropriate paperwork. Even though you may not be requested to show your IDP by the car company or travel agent, if you get pulled over by the police they will be expecting to see your IDP. I recommend even though it seems a silly process it gives you peace of mind while driving legally during your trip to Italy for only a small fee.

Cheap is not always best when renting

For our trip to Italy, I rented a car from a cheap hire company. It’s not awful but make sure to read the fine print and know exactly what comes with your rental. They really lure you in with their great offers!

Check the simple things like no hidden fees, how many drivers you can have or that you have unlimited mileage.

I may have hit a sign with our rental car (whoops…) thankfully it was exactly where there was damage on the car previously and no one was the wiser of my minor accident. Otherwise, those nasty fees would have definitely stung me.

Driving in a new country can be stressful (especially Pisa!) and caused my minor accident so make sure you have insurance. One of the biggest ways that car rental companies earn money from you is via insurance. Picking up third party insurance will save you a ton of money.

Manual Transmission is the Preferred Choice

In Europe, it’s very common to get manual transmission cars and will be the option provided to you unless you specified otherwise. Make sure you let the car company that you want to rent an automatic or choose it as the option on the booking site and be prepared to pay a lot more.

What else do I need to carry in my car when driving in Italy?

I had no idea there were certain things that you need to carry in your car when driving in Italy. Thankfully the rental car companies will provide you with these items which they did for mine. Being in Tuscany I did not think I would need snow chains in March!

Double check when you pick up the car just in case. Planning to drive your own car in Italy you will need to consider purchasing some of these items. So what do they expect you to have?

• Warning triangles and reflective jackets (compulsory attire) – in case you need to pull over on the side of the road
• UK cars will without a GB-euro symbol number plate to display a GB sticker
• Snow chains during the winter months

Other items to add to your checklist:

• Full and valid driver’s licence
• IDP card (if required)
• Proof of Insurance
• Passport/national ID
• Headlamp beam deflectors (if required)
• Proof of ownership (original V5C document, not a photocopy)

Get a GPS or a Map

I totally recommend that you get some sort of map or navigation as the roads or routes to get to places aren’t that straightforward. There is no way I would be able to navigate driving around without a GPS or a map.

Which side of the road do you drive in Italy?

In Italy they drive on the right-hand side of the road. Being a part of the small third-party of countries that drive on the left it can be a tad confusing (at least for me).

How Do Petrol Stations Work In Italy?

As I went with a cheap car hire company we had to fill up the car before going on a road trip the first lesson that we learnt and ended up with some pretty expensive full. There are two options to fill up your car, by an attendant or self-service.

Turns out when the attendant fills up your car you get charged extra €16 cents per litre or gallon (I can’t remember). So make sure you find the self-section to save yourself some serious cash. It also seems to be the option that has the least amount of fill-up points.

Look out for these signs to tell the difference between self-service and attendant service:

Service stations are very frequent along all of the motorways just like most of Europe.

Speed Limits in Italy

Speed limit signs seem to be very limited i.e. the ones that actually show what speed you are meant to go. Most signs are the national speed limits signs so they expect you to know the speed limits before you drive. Make sure you memorise this speed limit in the table below and don’t forget the speed limits vary depending on the weather.

It Might Be Close But It Can Take You Long Time To Get There

Italy has a lot of windy Roads not very many highways and the roads can be in quite a poor condition (which they introduce speed restrictions for instead of fixing the road). It might be 7 miles away but it can take up to 40 minutes to drive due to this unless you are a rally car driver.

Everyone Goes Faster Than You In Generally

Coming from Australia we would only have pretty strict road rules whilst some people break the rules we tend to be careful in breaking the rules as there are massive fines if you are caught. However in Europe you can get some people are going 50 kilometres over the speed limit. As a left lane is generally where people speed or overtake you keep to the right-hand lane. This way you don’t feel pressured to speed and save yourself a speeding fine.

What is the alcohol limit in Italy?

Drinking wine in Italy is definitely alluring especially with lunch or dinner. The alcohol limit in Italy is 0.05% so no more than 1 to 2 wines or the safest option don’t drink at all.

How are fines issued in Italy?

Police officers usually do not patrol the roads but if are and pull you over the fine will be issued on the spot. The police can collect 1 quarter of the maximum fine and must give you an official receipt for the amount of the fine paid.

If there is a sign showing with a police officer with a hand raised or orange autovelox boxes this indicates that there will be speed traps and check points.

There are lots of cameras set up to register a car’s speed and if you are running over the limit it will automatically issue a ticket. If you’ve rented a car in Italy, the ticket will be sent to the car rental company and they will generally charge it to the credit card they have on file plus admin fees.

Signs on the Autostrada

Italy uses international road signs. You will see signs like national speed limit which is white and black, green background signs that indicate road names/ types and general signs saying:

• Uscita meaning Exit
• Entrata meaning Entrance
• Tangenziale meaning tangential, usually a ring road around a large town

Motorways in Italy can have tolls which are really easy to identify as they will have toll stations. There are three ways to pay for the tolls:

• Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club are accepted.
• Telepass – unlikely method as a tourist, it requires you to have a transponder and linked up to your bank account.

Depending on how you would like to pay, look out for the following signs:

• Cash follow the white signs
• Credit card follow the blue signs
• Telepass follow the yellow signs.

Be Careful at Entrances and Exits on the Motorway

You will generally find that the entrance and exit ramps for the motorways in Italy can be very short or have quite tight corners so be careful when approaching these.

Tailgating is Common

Coming from a country where you are supposed to give space on the road, this is the total opposite in Italy. Italian drivers drive much closer to each other than we’d be used to especially when overtaking. They can come right up to your rear bumper and be a little daunting so the easiest thing to do is slow down, let them overtake and continue to drive safely.

Never drive in the ZTL!

They have these zones called Zona Traffico Limitato (“ZTL”) also referred to as the“Area Pedonale” which are areas restricted to limited traffic and/or pedestrians only. It’s illegal to drive in these zones unless you have a special permits to do so. Most permit holders are police, public transport and emergency vehicles so not us tourists!

Watch where you park!

Ah parking in Italy can be a nightmare in certain areas especially the big cities. Its best to check with your hotel where the best places to park and how to pay for parking as they will have the insider knowledge.

Always make sure you have a ticket from the nearest parking meter and display it, the fine can add up really fast. The meters are normally coin only so have a few euros prepared.

• No brainer tip, wear your seat belt.
• Age limits apply to where people can sit in a car, for example children up to the age of 12 cannot travel in the front seat.
• Don’t use your mobile phone while driving (again common sense).
• Always have your headlights on, they are compulsory when you are driving on motorways, dual carriageways and on all out of town roads.
• In some countries I know they allow you to turn right on a red traffic signal but this is illegal in Europe.

Let us know in the comments below your tips for driving in Italy!

Kat Hi, I'm Kat, an Australian that moved to London in 2013 to start a  new adventure.  What a roller-coaster that was! I love helping others move to the UK  and people  explore the world ! I’d be honoured if you’d say, “Thanks!” with a £3 coffee on Ko-fi.

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You asked: Do I need an international license to drive abroad?

By The Way Concierge looks into the rules of the road in Europe

Traveling has always come with complications. Our By The Way Concierge column will take your travel dilemmas to the experts to help you navigate the new normal. Want to see your question answered? Submit it here .

We are planning a trip to Puglia in April and are renting a car. We have been getting mixed messages about whether we need to have an international driver’s license. What should we do? — Joe O., Berlin, Md.

You’re right about the mixed messages. The website for the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy says you “should obtain an International Driving Permit before leaving the U.S.” But a few paragraphs later notes that “tourists may also use their valid American driver’s license if accompanied by an official translation in Italian.” I talked to a bunch of Italy travel experts to sort out the rules.

Duncan Greenfield-Turk, managing director and chief travel designer for Global Travel Moments , told me he advises anyone who plans on driving in a foreign country — Italy and otherwise — to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). He also said the rules for driving in Italy are clear: You must either have an Italian driver’s license or one issued by a European Union country. If you don’t have one of those, you need to get a IDP to carry with your home country driver’s license.

Rental car agencies may ask you for both your U.S. license and your IDP to pick up your vehicle, but not always, says Rocco Giuseppe Gambardella, who owns the Amalfi Coast culinary experiences company Bè Genuine Home Experience with his wife, Carla. It “depends on the car rental companies,” he said, so you may never need to present an IDP while you’re in the country.

That’s been the case for American travel journalist Angel F. Castellanos , who says he has never had problems getting rental cars or driving in Italy without an IDP. Even when he’s gotten speeding tickets, “I’ve never had to present my license to a police officer,” Castellanos said.

Basic traffic violations are captured by camera footage, then tickets get sent to travelers later. Those have been pricey, Castellanos warns, and come through the rental car companies who charge service fees on top of the violation.

But in the case you do get pulled over by Italian police or get in a car accident, and you don’t have the permit, you can get fined hundreds of euros . And Kathy McCabe , host of the PBS show “Dream of Italy,” says the requirement has been enforced more often in recent years.

7 Italy vacations that check every travel style

Fortunately, it’s easy to get an IDP, McCabe says. There’s a $20 fee, plus tax, to apply for one through AAA , and you don’t have to take a written or driving test. You just need to be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. According to AAA, an IDP can’t be issued more than six months in advance of your trip, but it is valid for a year.

You can apply in person at a AAA branch by printing and filling out this form , submitting it with two original passport pictures and showing your valid U.S. driver’s license. Or you can apply by mail by sending that same application form, two passport pictures each signed on the back, a photocopy of both sides of your driver’s license and the fee. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pay more for expedited return mail service. ( More on the process here. )

A local’s guide to Rome

Alternatively, as the U.S. Embassy website mentioned, you can forgo an IDP and get your license translated into Italian — but it’s more of a hassle than it sounds. You’ll have to get an official translation (a traduzione giurata) at a place like an embassy or consulate, or through a certified translator or interpreter.

I’d be remiss to not include a word of warning from some of my sources: Renting a car in Italy isn’t for everyone.

Because of potential “excessive costs and traffic problems,” Gambardella advises clients against renting a car on trips to the Amalfi Coast and southern Italy, although he added that many of his customers have rented cars without any problems.

Dominique Barbeau of the private tour operator Access Italy says the company also recommends against renting a car overseas. Clients often return home with lots of traffic violations, and, “at the end, it is worth hiring a driver,” she said. Gambardella says you could use a taxi service, such as NCC , or take trains (Italy has a great train system) or buses.

In southeast Italy, this pastry is king

With that being said, McCabe does recommend having a car to explore the Salento peninsula. And having traveled through Puglia myself , I’d also rent a car to hop between beaches easily if I went back again.

For good measure, I asked my Italian friend Vito Palumbo , CEO of the wine company Tormaresca, who has vineyards in Puglia. He’s 100 percent on board for travelers renting a car in Italy — particularly Puglia, where public transportation is limited. While parking can be confusing, he finds it less common to get speeding tickets in the region than in other parts of the country.

Should you decide to drive, in addition to applying for your IDP, download the navigation app Waze . Castellanos says it has helped him avoid tickets since he started using it. Not only does Waze give driving directions, but it also provides speed limits and points out where speed-trap cameras are located.

Have a travel dilemma for By The Way Concierge? Send it to us here .

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18 Tips For Driving in Italy the First Time (that you don’t want to miss!)

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Driving is the best way to experience Italy, and with these tips, driving through Italy couldn’t be easier

One thing I love about Europe is the train system. Trains really can get you just about anywhere in Europe. From exploring the city locally via a Metro system to traveling across international borders, trains are quick, efficient, and affordable.

But you’re missing out if you only experience Europe via trains.

Trains help you hit the big cities but driving gets you to the nooks and crannies. Florence is wonderful, but you won’t get your Under the Tuscan Sun experience there. You need to escape to the Italian countryside – the lush green countryside, the hilltop towns, and the broken English – to really experience that charm.

To experience this, you really need to drive – which is why I think driving is the best way to experience Italy.

I’ve been to Italy three times and I’ve driven each time. Driving in a foreign country sounds terrifying but it’s honestly not too bad. In fact, I drove alone this last visit when I stayed in Montepulciano to study Italian at Il Sasso . If I can drive in Italy as a 20-something solo female traveler, trust me, you can drive in Italy, too

From these three trips, here are all my tips for driving in Italy that all first-time visitors need. With these tips for driving in Italy, you’re sure to have a wonderful trip!

Please note: this post may contain affiliate links. What that means is, if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may make a commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, please see my Affiliate Disclosure .

1. Which side of the road do you drive on in Italy?

In Italy, you drive on the right hand side of the road. Just like in US (and most of the world!).

2. What are road signs like in Italy?

Road signs in Italy are pretty similar to road signs in the US. Most road signs are images so you don’t really need to read Italian to understand the signs.

3. Is it possible to drive in Italy with an American driver’s license?

Yes, but you will also need an International Driving Permit.

This is basically a driver’s license translated into a lot of different languages. It helps breach the language barrier in the event you’re pulled over. Honestly, I think it’s mostly just a formality – I’ve never had to use mine. Head over to your local AAA and they will get you set up. Fill out a quick application, get a photo taken, and pay the fee and you’ll be good to go.

There is no special test to take. Holding an American driver’s license makes you road-qualified in Italy. The IDP is a formality.

4. Can I rent an automatic car in Italy?

If you’re renting a car, it will be a manual (stick-shift) by default unless you upgrade. If you don’t pre-pay (i.e., upgrade online and pay ahead of time), there’s a chance that they will not have an automatic available for you when you arrive. Manuals are the standard (ha… pun intended) in Italy, so DEFINITELY prepare ahead of time if you cannot drive a stick shift.

On that note… if you are renting a manual, it can be surprisingly difficult to shift the car into reverse. When you go to shift into reverse, you’ll have to pull up on the shifter knob before you pop the gear into reverse. If you don’t lift the knob up, the transmission won’t engage in reverse and you’ll get stuck in a parking spot (which I have done… my limited Italian didn’t prepare me for that situation.)

5. How small are the rental cars in Italy?

Cars in Italy are much smaller than American vehicles. A Honda Civic or a Ford Focus, for instance, would look pretty large on the road in Italy.

What does that mean for you practically?

A Fiat 500 isn’t going to work if you’re traveling with four people and four checked bags. When I visited with a friend in 2018, we rented a Fiat 500 Cabrio convertible. Our backseat was taken up with our luggage and our “trunk” was filled with purses and other carry-ons. That little car was filled to the gills and there is no way we would have been able to fit a third person, let alone a fourth.

6. Is it worth it to upgrade rental car collision coverage in Italy?

Check your credit card before you leave and understand what your rental coverage is. When in doubt, it may be worthwhile to splurge on the higher-end rental coverage. When I took my language class at Il Sasso , at least two of my classmates had been in accidents. Two! They just got backed into in some small parking lots, but still. I had a number of situations where I was secretly glad I had the higher coverage, even if I didn’t use it.

Check that your credit card covers primary collision coverage. This means the credit card company pays the bill instead of your personal automobile insurance. Call before you go so you can make an informed decision!

7. Is it difficult to return a rental car in Italy?

You would think Rome has a 24/7 type of airport, but unfortunately, I discovered that’s not quite true. When trying to return our rental at 3am the day of departure, we were unable to get the car into the parking garage. The garage was double-gated and security wasn’t very helpful. My friend snuck by the gates to try and get some help… the Italian police were called … eesh. Good rule of thumb: just return it during daylight hours because then you know the garage will be available and staffed.

8. Pre-plan your GPS before driving in Italy.

The rental counter will offer you a GPS device for something like 14 euro a day. Total rip-off! You’re better off just paying your home carrier $10 a day to have unlimited international data (cheaper, AND you get to use your phone with no hindrance). If that’s too steep, check out my post on staying connected abroad to understand what other options you have.

9. Why does my car automatically shut off in Italy?

If you’re stopped for relatively long periods of time the engine may shut itself off. Don’t be surprised – it’s a way Europe helps manage emissions. The car will start itself back up when you give it some gas!

10. Are there tolls in Italy?

Yes, the autostrade (main highways) tend to be toll roads.

The toll roads are like 95% easy. My first time in Italy, however, we made a big mistake: we followed the rest of traffic through the TELEPASS lane, and continued our merry little way down the road. A couple hours later, we went to exit the highway and had no pass, no language skills, and a very frazzled toll attendant. Oops.

Don’t do that. The “TELEPASS” lanes are for automated tolling. It’s like the EZ-TAG in Houston: your TELEPASS is detected and your account automatically debited. No, you as a tourist need to go through the manual lane.

When entering a toll road, just go through any non-TELEPASS lane and accept your ticket. DO NOT lose this! And don’t mix it up with any other tickets you’ve taken. Keep it safe for when you exit the Autostrade .

When you go to exit, there will be a bunch of lanes. Again, ignore the TELEPASS lane. If you are paying with a credit card, go through the lane that has a credit card symbol. A machine will speak rapid, robotic Italian at you. Enter your ticket, follow the on-screen prompts, enter your card, and leave when the gate opens.

If you’re paying with cash, go through the lane marked with bills and coins. These lanes are usually manned so you can get assistance if you’re confused. Some lanes accept both credit cards and cash, so I recommend going that route your first time, just in case.

On that note, I recommend you get cash at the airport before continuing on your Italian airport adventure. Find out cash tips (and more!) here .

11. How hard is highway driving in Italy?

It’s really pretty easy.

Seriously. Italian highways are just like American highways. If you are able to stay mostly on the highways, you’ll have no issues driving in Italy.

12. What are the speed limits on Italian roadways?

Speed limits aren’t always posted frequently on Italian roads.

Just in case that’s your experience, the speed limits (generally) are:

• 130 kmph on major highways.
• 110 kmph on non-major highways.
• 90 kmph on local roads.
• 50 kmph on urban roads.

13. Do Italians drive differently than Americans?

There are some cultural quirks that you’ll notice when you’re driving in Italy. They aren’t bad or good, just little things to pay attention to when you’re on the road.

• Italians like to straddle the line. I don’t really get it – maybe it’s to keep them from getting passed
• They will also approach you from behind VERY QUICKLY and then change lanes. It stressed my friend out when we traveled together, so don’t be surprised if it happens to you.
• Italians also like to speed. And they’ll get irritated if you get in the way of them speeding.
• If they’re annoyed with you, they’ll flash their headlights or turn their blinkers on to tell you to get out of the way. A cop even did that to me once!

14. Are there convenience stores in Italy?

If you’re on the autostrade (toll road), it’s super easy to find a convenience store. You’ll come across one probably every half hour or so. These things are magical – ample parking, gas pumps, snacks, drinks, a sandwich & coffee bar, and nice restrooms. If you’re hungry, pull over to one of these and get some snacks. The coffee & sandwich bar follows the standard Italian coffee bar etiquette, which has its own nuance . It’s a great place to fill up, use the restroom, grab a snack, and take a driving break.

15. Are there speed traps in Italy?

There will be little signs just before the Autovelox or Safety Tutor alerting you to their presence. It’ll be a blue sign with an image of a cop holding his hands up, and these little boxes measure your speed and can send you a speeding ticket months after you get home .

Just don’t speed!

16. Why are Italian rental cars so tiny?

Remember how I said above that the cars are small and don’t fit much? There’s a reason the cars are small. I’ve only visited Umbria and Tuscany but both regions are famous for their hilltop towns. Some of the towns have adequate roads but some have tiny little bike lanes pretending to be roads.

My friend and I decided to venture to Cortona to see the house in Under the Tuscan Sun . This was fine and dandy until we went to return to the hotel. There were lanes that had literal inches of clearance from our tiny Fiat and there were turns that required 4 or 5 point turns. Very stressful. This is why higher insurance is valuable.

Tip 5 may have you thinking that you should upgrade to a larger car before exploring Italy, but I would recommend against that. We were thankful to have our tiny little Fiat 500 more often than not. Stick to the smaller end of cars, pack lighter, and maybe rent two cars if your party is large.

17. What is a ZTL?

A ZTL is a zona a traffico limitato, which is a limited traffic area.

ZTLs are designed to limit traffic in the historic centers of cities. You should NEVER enter a ZTL unless your hotel tells you it’s ok. Even if they tell you it’s ok, it’s very important to provide them with your vehicle information (make, model, & license plate number) so that it can be registered with the local police. But generally speaking, avoid entering a ZTL at all costs. Stop, turn around, and annoy the locals if need be – every entrance into a ZTL will incur a fine. This is what the signs look like. They are very well marked!

18. How do you get gas in Italy?

Getting gas in Italy is actually pretty complicated. These are probably the two most important tips for driving in Italy.

Tip 1: the gas station may be self serve or it may be serviced with an attendant.

The self serve will have a central machine that you pay at after selecting the correct gas pump. These accept credit cards in theory but my card was never accepted. Moral of the story: you need cash .

The attended gas stations should accept cards, as well, but this never seemed to work for me. Again, moral of the story: you need cash. I almost ran out of gas because I was running so low on cash and I couldn’t find a station that would accept a credit or debit card. Don’t make the same mistake as me!

Tip 2 – and most important – it is VERY EASY to put the wrong kind of fuel in your vehicle.

BENZINA is GAS. If your car is NOT a diesel, it needs BENZINA.

GASOLIO is DIESEL. If your car is a DIESEL, fill it with GASOLIO.

See how that’s confusing? It’s basically backwards from the American naming convention. To add more confusion – the BENZINA typically has a green pump (much like diesel in the US). For this reason, the attended gas stations are nice… they won’t screw it up.

These tips for driving in Italy are must-haves for everyone traveling to Italy for the first time

Please don’t let this list intimidate you. I had companions the first two times I drove in Italy but I was completely alone for my most recent trip. I promise you, it is not only doable but also quite enjoyable. You can only really enjoy the Italian countryside by car … so take the leap.

Umbria and Montepulciano are wonderful areas to visit by car. If you want a true Italian experience, I always recommend studying Italian in Italy!

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Driving in Europe as an American: Documentation & Road Rules

Please note that some of the links may be affiliate links , and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products & companies I love and use, and the income goes back into making this little blog successful!

Driving in Europe as an American can be a bit of an adjustment, but it’s easy to get the hang of it quickly if you know what to expect.

This article goes into a few key differences you should be mindful of when driving in Europe , like unique road rules and having the right documentation for renting a car. Because I love road trips, I’ve rented a car in almost every country in Europe, and have zero regrets – driving is scenic, fun, and allows for deeper exploration than just sticking to major cities.

QUICK HITTERS ✔️ You will need an International Driver’s Permit to rent a car in most countries. ✔️ A few road rules change from country to country – and you’ll need to learn about roundabouts. ✔️ When I rent a car, this is what I use to compare costs – it’s the best: ▶️ DISCOVER CARS ◀️

In my opinion, Italy has the craziest drivers who sometimes don’t follow the road rules. German drivers are the best – polite and almost always following the rules. Eastern European roads are a bit more rugged – think huge potholes, more rural, with patches of dirt roads on highways, and heavy construction. And the worst traffic I’ve encountered has been in Istanbul and Napoli – worse even than LA (which says a lot).

That said, driving in Europe is pretty chill, especially outside of the big cities. Europeans tend to take their time and enjoy the scenery while driving ( except the Germans because of the ‘no speed limit’ Autobahn ), so don’t feel like you need to rush. Just relax, and enjoy the road trip!

Table of Contents

Driving in Europe as an American: International Driver’s Permit (IDP)

Here is all the information you need about how to get an International Driver’s Permit.

What documents do I need to drive in Europe?

You will need a passport and your driver’s license.

For Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, or Spain, you will also need to provide an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).

How do I get an IDP in America?

As an American driving in Europe, you’ll want to get an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).

An IDP is a document that allows you to drive in other countries if you have a valid U.S. driver’s license and is essentially a translation of your driver’s license.

Before you ask, yes, I have been asked to show my IDP to pick up my rental , as well as during a traffic stop in Croatia.

Several countries in Europe require an IDP to drive or rent a car , including Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, or Spain, so it’s a good idea to spend 30 min to get one States side before going on your adventure.

You can get an IDP from AAA or the State Department ( form here ) and NO, you do not need to have a AAA membership to do so. The IDP is valid for one year and must be carried with your driver’s license when you’re driving.

NOTE: Be sure to bring 2 passport-style photos with you when you apply for the IDP, a valid U.S. driver’s license, and a method of payment to cover the IDP fee (cash or credit work fine).

Just remember that an IDP is not a substitute for a driver’s license, but rather a translation of your driver’s license to aid local European police. Having an IDP can help ensure that you’re treated fairly and can help avoid any misunderstandings about your driving privileges, renting a car, etc.

How do I get an IDP in Europe?

Honestly, this is an absolute pain in the ass, so do it before you go! But if you’re in this situation for whatever reason, it’s essentially a manual mail-in process using the same form as above .

It will take 5-7 weeks for you to get something back, and you’ll need to provide a street address for delivery abroad, so make sure you have a home base.

What European countries require an IDP?

Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, or Spain require an IDP to rent a car and drive. While it’s not always consistent, I have been asked to present my IDP to rent a car in several of these countries.

2 Week Croatia Road Trip on the Dalmatian Coast

One of my most epic road trips was along the coast of Croatia from Pula to Dubrovnik, and I definitely had to keep my wits about me while driving. IDP is required for this one!

Driving in Europe as an American: Renting a Car

Now that you have the right documentation, here are a few things to know about renting a car.

Can I rent a car in Europe with a US Driver’s License?

Yes, you will need both your passport and your driver’s license to rent a car in Europe. Additionally, for Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, or Spain, you will also need to provide an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) .

This is what I personally use to check prices: ▶️ DISCOVER CARS ◀️

Can I rent a car in one country and return it in another? 

Yes, but there will be a fee associated with this from the rental car company, and that will vary from country to country.

When I rented a car in Germany and went on a road trip through the Italian Dolomites and Swiss Alps , the cross-country fee was about $150.

Can I cross borders in a rental car?

Yes. And it is absolutely seamless in the Schengen countries (most of the EU) . Sometimes, I barely noticed as there is only a sign or two saying “Welcome to XYZ Country”, similar to how you cross state lines in America.

There will be border control when you’re crossing in and out of countries outside of Schengen. For example, I had to wait in a queue and present my passport as I crossed into Bosnia-Herzegovina on my way to Dubrovnik. That said, just have your passport ready.

PRO TIP: You should inform your rental car company when picking up the car, as there is a rental car fee to cross borders. Because all rental cars are equipped with GPS, you don’t want to have a higher fee when you return it and they check the location log.

Are there age limits for renting a car in Europe?

If you’re over 25 years old, you’re good to go!

Minimum and maximum age limits vary by country and have fees associated with them ranging from $20-50 a day. If you’re under 21 or over 70, you may not be able to rent a car and will have to rely on other modes of public transportation – like trains, ships, metros, bikes, walking, private transfer, etc.

What do I need to know about European cars?

• European cars are generally smaller . A Ford Focus in Europe is smaller than a Ford Focus in America. This makes them easier to park!
• Be careful to check if you are renting an automatic or manual transmission . While manual transmission rentals are more prevalent and cheaper to rent, I personally have not yet learned to drive a stick shift and would be fuk’ed if I got stuck with one.
• Be careful to put the right type of fuel in your car . It’s usually written on the edge of the driver’s door as you open it, as well as on the tank. Some cars in Europe operate on Diesel.

How to Drive in Europe as an American: Rules of the Road

As an American, driving in Europe can be a bit daunting because the roads are smaller, a few of the signs are different, and each country has a language you might not understand.

So here are a few rules of the road and FAQs for driving in Europe as an American to get you prepped!

Is it difficult for an American to drive in Europe?

Not really. If you prepare ahead of time and get the right documentation (IDP) and a rental car you’re comfortable with (automatic transmission), you should be fine.

Note that European roads are often narrower and more crowded than American roads, making it difficult to navigate sometimes. Additionally, signs and traffic signals may be unfamiliar or in a different language.

That said, with a little patience and practice, driving in Europe can be an enjoyable experience, and road trips are the best way to see the sights outside of big cities in Europe.

South Norway Road Trip

The best way to explore the land of Vikings and fjords is via road trip with a car or sprinter van. I spend 2 weeks exploring Oslo, Stavanger, Bergen, and all the way to Alesund and it was the best trip of my year!

Why is driving in Italy so different?

Driving in Italy is the toughest for an American compared to any other country in Europe for multiple reasons.

The lanes are fluid, chaos is visually and audibly all around you, and there are so many different types of pedestrians – from people to chickens to cows.

I have prayed more times than I’ve ever had in my life, snuck my rental car through the tiniest of streets and craziest of roundabouts (because Ubers are not always a thing in Italy ) — and somehow came out the other side alive and well!

Lessons Learned: Here are common mistakes around renting a car in Italy so that you go into the beautiful country prepared and ready for epic road trips!

Can I drive in Europe with a US license?

You can drive in all the European countries with a US License. Just remember that you will need a passport to accompany your license in order to drive in all European countries. You will also need an IDP in several others listed above.

Where are the speed cameras?

OMG they are everywhere in Europe, and sometimes quite well hidden! I’ve got speed tickets sent to my house from the rental car agency months later (with images included) from Italy for going over the limit.

And bless you if you get a ticket in countries like Norway or Austria, which are notorious for slapping you with $500-700 fees.

No need to rush through the beauty that is Europe, here are 7 Ways to Pass Time on a Road Trip so you don’t feel incentivized to speed.

Where is the Autobahn?

The Autobahn is a highway where there is no speed limit, and it only exists in Germany. When you see the symbols below, specifically the “ no speed limit “, this means you can go all out because the roads are constructed and engineered to make that possible.

NOTE: Even with the fast driving, I’ve always felt that German drivers are seriously among the best in the world. Polite, no surprises, focused on the road (no texting). Danke! 💙

A few things to keep in mind:

• The far-left lane is for maximum speed only and passing. DO NOT stay on this lane unless you’re the fastest mofo on the road or passing someone. If the guy behind you has to break because you have not gotten out of the fast lane fast enough, that’s considered poor driving.
• Careful of speed traps on the Autobahn , where the NO SPEED LIMIT suddenly goes to 120 KM/H Speed Limit, then back to No Speed Limit.
• I usually sit in the middle lane or the far right lane and go as fast as I feel comfortable, occasionally putting the pedal to the metal and passing on the far left lane. But then I move back to the left lanes to cruise along at a slower pace.

How do I pay tolls in Europe?

Everywhere in Europe, tolls are just like in the States, and you can pay with a credit card if you don’t have cash.

Some of the time, your rental car is equipped with an automatic toll reader, which accrues your tolls along the journey, and the total paid at the end when you hand in your car. This is especially true in the northern European countries where infrastructure is more advanced.

I was pleasantly surprised that Norway was seamless from road tolls to ferry boat tolls.

What’s with all the Roundabouts?

If you’re driving in Europe, you’re bound to encounter a roundabout. These little traffic circles are a common sight, and they can be a bit confusing for American drivers. After all, we’re used to stoplights and four-way intersections!

Roundabouts may seem strange at first, but they’re actually a very efficient way to move traffic. And once you get the hang of them, driving in them will be a breeze!

Here are a few tips for driving in a roundabout:

• Yield to traffic already in the circle.
• Enter the circle from the right lane.
• Drive counterclockwise around the circle until you reach your exit.
• Use your turn signal when you exit the circle.

Any tips for refueling your rental car?

Driving in Europe as an American, there are a few things you’ll need to know about refueling your vehicle.

👉 PRO TIP: It’s usually written on the edge of the driver’s door as you open it, as well as on the tank.

• In most European countries, gas is sold by the liter rather than the gallon. This can be a bit confusing for Americans, but there are a few easy conversion tricks you can use. Just remember that there are approximately 3.8 liters in 1 gallon. So if you’re used to paying $7 per gallon, you’ll be paying approximately $2 per liter.
• I was driving through Croatia on my first road trip through Europe and realized I had no idea how to pay at a gas station. In America, you just swipe your card at the pump and you’re all set. But in Europe, you have to go into the station to pay first, and then you can go back to the pump and fill up your tank. It’s a small difference, but it’s one that can trip up even the most experienced traveler.
• Don’t forget to pay attention to the different types of fuel available. Most American cars require unleaded gasoline, but you’ll also find diesel and LPG options in Europe. Make sure you know what type of fuel your car takes before you start driving.

Where do I park?

In all my road trip adventures, I’ve become an expert at parking in Europe (as well as paying parking tickets in most countries), so here’s all my wisdom so you don’t make the same mistakes:

• EasyPark App : A great app for being able to manage your parking meter remotely. Helped out a lot when driving in France and Italy.
• Seety App : Great for visualizing the different parking zones in a city, finding free parking zones, as well as the cost of each parking zone. Especially useful in the city.
• Old Towns in any European city are almost all parking-free zones unless you’re a local. Park outside of Old Towns unless you want crazy tickets – and trust me, there are cameras all around taking note of incoming and outgoing cars.
• If you get a parking ticket, you can use Google Translate to decipher the payment instructions . Usually, you can pay online, with a discounted price if you take care of it quickly. If not, you can look for the closest Post Office, where some parking tickets can also be paid for (especially in southern European countries like Italy and Croatia.)

Is It Worth It To Drive In Europe?

Driving in Europe can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and I recommend it. There are some pros and cons to think through before you decide for yourself:

• Flexibility: Having your own rental car allows you to set your own schedule, make spontaneous detours, and stop whenever a breathtaking view catches your eye.
• Access to Remote Locations: Driving can take you to off-the-beaten-path destinations— quaint villages , secluded beaches , and gorgeous rural landscapes —that public transportation can’t always reach.
• Scenic Routes: Europe is home to some of the most beautiful driving routes in the world, from the Amalfi Coast in Italy to the iconic serpentine routes of Madeira .
• Stress: Navigating unfamiliar roads and driving customs can be stressful, and traffic in cities can be intense.
• Parking: In many European cities, parking works a bit different – usually located outside of historic old towns, and almost always paid.

Despite the cons, the pros of driving in Europe often outweigh them, particularly adventurous at heart.

There’s a simple joy in navigating Europe’s iconic serpentine roads, steering away from the well-trodden paths of famous cities, and venturing into the mountains, villages, and rural areas. Here, I will argue, lies the more authentic Europe.

The ability to explore these areas at your own pace, with the windows down, your favorite tunes playing, and the European landscape unfolding before you, is an experience that truly embodies the spirit of road-tripping.

So, yes, driving in Europe is worth it.

Conclusion: Can Americans Drive in Europe?

Absolutely, Americans can drive in Europe, but there are a few key points to keep in mind to make sure you have a smooth trip.

✔️ License and Documentation: First things first, your U.S. driver’s license is valid in most European countries for short visits (usually up to 90 days).

However, it’s highly recommended to get an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is an official translation of your license and is recognized in over 150 countries. You can easily obtain an IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) before you leave the States.

✔️ Understanding the Rules: European traffic rules can differ from those in the U.S.

For instance, in countries like the UK and Ireland, you’ll be driving on the left side of the road, which can be disorienting at first. While I usually take public transportation in the UK, there are so any places where a car really is a must to explore.

Speed limits are also usually posted in kilometers per hour (km/h), and they can change frequently, especially when entering and exiting city/village areas.

✔️ Insurance and Rental Cars: If you’re renting a car, insurance is a must – get that as part of your rental contract. Also, manual transmissions are more common in Europe, so if you’re not comfortable with a stick shift, be sure to request an automatic one when booking your rental.

✔️ Tolls: Many European countries have toll roads, and the fees are steeper than in the US, and can add up quickly. That said, almost all the tolls I’ve been to in east and west Europe can be paid with card.

✔️ Parking and City Driving: Cities can be challenging with narrow streets and limited parking. Be aware of restricted traffic zones, often found in historic city centers, which can carry hefty fines for unauthorized driving. I have gotten multiple tickets in little Italian towns for driving through without knowing it was not allowed.

✔️ Fuel Considerations: Gas stations in rural areas may not be as plentiful as you’re used to, and they often close early (around 8 p.m.).

Plan your refueling stops by searching on Google Maps, remember that fuel is sold by the liter, not the gallon, and that your rental car will have a little note on the gas tank regarding which fuel you need to pump.

✔️ Adapting to Local Customs: Each country has its own driving culture. For example, in some places, flashing headlights is a signal to get the heck out of the way into the slower lanes. Be observant, adaptable, and always courteous – leave the road rage at home, you’re on vacation!

European driving can be insane, especially with the added excitement of new sights and experiences. Take breaks, enjoy the scenery, and don’t rush—after all, the journey is just as important as the destination.

Remember, driving in Europe is not just about getting from point A to B; it’s an adventure that can take you through some of the world’s most stunning landscapes and into the heart of its most vibrant cultures.

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

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8 Essential Tips For Driving In Italy

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When my husband and I first moved to a small village north of Rome, I was initially frightened to drive the 10 kilometers from our house to the neighboring village down the hill. The windy road was a series of corkscrew turns that the Italians seemed to traverse as if practicing for the Grand Prix. After a while, I stopped looking in my rearview mirror because, with few exceptions, an Alfa Romeo usually filled it with anxious doom. Glued to my tailgate, the car behind would swerve in and out of our mutual lane hoping to pass around any blind curve. I was simply too slow. And worse! I even had the gall to stop at stop signs.

Once braving the descent into the village, I became alert for imminent danger lurking behind any corner. Cars nonchalantly double-parked at the bar so Antonio and Giuseppe could run in and have a quick espresso. Horns honked Ciao as Maria passed the cousin of her husband’s friend’s sister-in-law. Motorbikes roared past me on a single-lane road. And Rosita abruptly stopped (without bothering with her right-turn signal), only to jump out into traffic and run into the bakery to buy fresh pane for pranzo .

The entire car culture in Italy is inescapable. There are more cars per person in Italy than in any other country in the world. (It overtook the United States in the late 1990s.) Cars slalom in and out of slower traffic, leaving little room between themselves and the cars they pass.

Anyone driving in Italy for the first time might think that there seem to be only two basic rules of the road:

• If you can go, GO!
• If you feel like stopping, STOP!

But, of course, this is only an illusion. In fact, there are no less than 724 (!) road signs, markers, and rights of way in the Italian driver’s handbook. But don’t worry, you don’t have to conquer them all, just a few of the basics. To help you get started, here are eight tips for driving in Italy:

1. Go With The Flow And Enjoy The Scenery

You will probably notice right away that speed limits don’t seem to matter — except where you see green cylinder speed cameras along the roadside. Then Italians will slow down. It’s always best to drive at a comfortable pace (which might mean at least 20 kmph over the speed limit) and enjoy the beautiful Italian scenery.

But don’t be surprised if the cars behind you are tailgating. You can either choose to pull over and let them pass or ignore them and let them pass. Whatever you do, try not to get upset and always stay focused on the road in front of you!

When I was getting my Italian driver’s license, I had to practice on part of a highway under construction. The speed limit sign said 40 kmph, but my driving instructor was actually horror-stricken when I maintained that speed. “Speed up!” he said. “You’re going too slow!” In fact, the slow lane on the freeway is even called la corsia della vergogna (the lane of shame).

2. Expect The Unexpected

This tip is especially true when parking. Take care backing in and out of any parking space because Italian drivers will not slow down. They often do not use their turn signals, and when you use yours, they seem to take little heed of where you want to go.

You will also probably notice that crossing the street — even on a crosswalk — can be perilous for pedestrians. Of course, while driving, you can extend the courtesy of letting them cross the road, but don’t expect Italians to slow down.

3. Road Signs May Read Like Hieroglyphics

If you’ve driven in Europe before, you know that the road signs are not always equivalent to those in the U.S. or Canada. Some road signs in Italy also have their own particularity — like being in Italian! Before arriving on the peninsula and hitting the road, do some homework and become familiar with the basic road signs.

Be aware that road signs can be misplaced, appear and then disappear, or just not exist. On the road to my house, there was a sign indicating “road works” for five years, but I never saw a man (or woman for that matter) at work. Especially in the countryside, more than once, I have driven down roads that lead to nowhere without any indication of being a dead end.

4. Driving Can Bring Surprises — Even With A GPS

Some Italian roads are only half-finished; others have suffered mudslides and still show up on your GPS as passable. Your GPS might even lead you to a street that ends in stairs! This happened to me once. Before I knew it, I was driving down three steps onto the main road! I was lucky there was no damage to the car — perhaps Italian angels carried me through the ai?!

In the countryside don’t be surprised if you encounter sheep and cowherds crossing mountain passes and even — when driving at dusk — a wild boar or two! Many country roads are steep, gravel slopes, so be prepared to go slowly — even in first gear. If it snows, the country road you’ve parked on for the night might not get plowed in time for you to make it to your next destination. That leads me to…

5. Don’t Get Stuck In The Snow

If you visit Italy in winter and lease a car, you are legally responsible for making sure that the car is carrying snow chains or is equipped with car tires. But there’s a catch — none of the car rental firms in Italy outfit their cars with winter tires! So be sure to rent some snow chains and learn how to put them on and off in a dry warm garage and not on a snowy mountain hilltop.

6. In The City Centers, Watch Out For Areas Marked ‘ZTL’ — Zona A Traffico Limitato

These are areas where only residents have a right to enter freely. I had a friend who wanted to just pop into a shop in Rome, so she had her husband drive around the block a few times while she ran in. Not long afterward, they received an expensive traffic ticket. Every time he drove around the block he was entering and exiting the resident-only zone, so he had to pay the penalty eight times!

In addition, parking in the cities is nearly impossible. Lots of streets are one way, and you’ll need to keep an eye out for speeding Vespas that appear out of nowhere.

7. Travel During A Quiet Hour

If you are uncomfortable with nervous Italian drivers frantically trying to pass you, then try traveling during the more quiet hours. Most government offices and shops are closed between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., so that’s when the roads can calm down. Also on Sunday, trucks are not permitted to travel on the major freeways.

8. Don’t Panic

If you find yourself on the autostrada (highway) in a bit of trouble, make sure you have the number for road assistance at hand, which is 116. This is the number of the Italian Automobile Club (ACI).

You can also seek assistance at the S.O.S. columns installed along the emergency lanes, approximately every 2 kilometers. These S.O.S. columns have a button that you push to send a signal, via GSM technology, to an Information Radio Center Operator, who will ask for information on your situation. They will then send out the help you need. It’s important that you stay close to the column while you wait for assistance. 

Not long after I received my Italian driver’s license, a police car sped past me on a solid double line down the windy road to town. But no matter. I have caught myself running stop signs and even double parking for a quick trip into the bakery.

Italians seem to have all these laws, but they also seem to know how to maneuver around them. Their laws are mostly for show, their way of life mastered by the ones who are furbi (cunning) enough to look as if they are obeying but all the time really doing whatever they want. Despite everything, in Italy, if you want to stop, stop ; and when you want to go, go . The rules may be complex, but the game…that’s simple.

For more Italian inspiration, consider:

• 9 Luxurious Spas To Visit In Italy
• Communicate Like An Italian: Expert Tips On Speaking Like A Local
• 12 Tips On How To Eat Like A Local In Italy
• Beyond Pisa: 7 Other Italian Leaning Towers Worth A Visit

A believer in the power of prayer, Catherine has had numerous articles published on spirituality and travel. One of her best memories is working at a retreat center in the Cairo desert, an oasis that attracted people of all faiths from around the world in an atmosphere of peace.

Can Americans Drive in Italy in 2024? Tips for Stress-Free Driving Abroad

• Feb 8, 2024

Can Americans drive in Italy and fully experience the freedom to venture off the beaten path and do it at their own pace?

The answer is yes , but there are a few things you need to know before hitting the road.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• The basics of driving in Italy as an American
• How to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Tips for renting a car and navigating Italian toll roads
• Insurance and liability considerations
• Important Italian road rules and parking tips
• Top destinations and itineraries for your road trip
• Alternatives to driving in Italy

Key Takeaways

• Americans need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Italy legally.
• Car rental and insurance should be booked in advance, with the Telepass device for navigating toll roads.
• Be aware of Italian road rules, parking regulations, and alternatives to driving when traveling around Italy.

Why trust me? Why trust me? My insights come from not only detailed research but also firsthand experiences. I’ve consulted American friends who obtained International Driving Permits, driven in Italy with both rental and personal cars, used a Telepass, and even dealt with the police. This journey makes me well-equipped to guide you on driving in Italy. -Luca

Driving in Italy as an American – The Basics

Driving in Italy may be similar to driving in the US, as Italians also drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the steering wheel is on the car’s left side. However, Americans need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive in Italy with their Italian driver’s license.

An IDP, sometimes called an international driver’s license, is not a driver’s license. It does not require any test. Instead, it simply translates the details of your driver’s license into different languages. To rent a car, you must be over 18 years old and have held a license for at least one year.

When driving on Italy’s toll roads, called Autostrade, keep to the right and adhere to the posted speed limit signs. The maximum permissible speed on the Autostrade is 130 kilometers per hour. Following these rules will help you avoid traffic violations and ensure safety on the road.

To navigate the Autostrade, you will need to follow these steps:

• Upon entering, you will be issued a ticket.
• When exiting, you will be required to pay the toll. Be prepared to pay cash, as credit cards may not always be accepted at the toll booth. Also, keep in mind that a police officer may be present.
• Always carry your International Driving Permit (IDP) and valid American driver’s license while driving in Italy.

Obtaining International Driving Permit

Obtaining an IDP is easy and affordable. It is available in person or by mail through AAA or AATA in the US. You must provide the required documents and fees to obtain an IDP in person. This includes:

• Two passport photos
• Your regular U.S. driver’s license
• An IDP application

The process should take approximately 10 minutes.

If you prefer to obtain an International Driver’s Permit by mail, you can send the application and necessary documents to:

AAA/IDP 1000 AAA Drive Heathrow, FL 32746 Attn: Mail Stop #28 Phone: +1 (407) 444-7000.

An international driving permit is valid for a duration of one year, and obtaining an international driving permit is a crucial step for many travelers.

Car Rental Tips for Americans in Italy

Booking your car rental in advance can help make the process in Italy go smoothly.

When choosing from the available rental cars, opt for an automatic transmission, as it is more straightforward for most Americans to drive and navigate unfamiliar roads. Smaller vehicles are also recommended, as they are more suitable for navigating Italy’s narrow streets and finding parking spaces.

Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location can be cost-effective, especially when dealing with rental agencies and companies. This can help you economize and avoid extra fees for dropping off the car at a different location.

Navigating Italian Toll Roads

Italian toll roads use a ticket system that calculates the toll based on the number of kilometers traveled.

Request a Telepass device when renting a car to save time and breeze through tollways. This electronic device allows you to traverse tollways without stopping and paying.

Note : Not all rental agencies provide Telepass devices, so it is recommended to inquire with the rental car company about their availability. -Luca

A Telepass device can significantly enhance your driving experience in Italy by removing the hassle of multiple Autostrada entries and exits and simplifying the payment process.

With a Telepass, you can spend more time enjoying Italy’s beautiful scenery and less dealing with tolls.

Insurance and Liability

Before starting your Italian road trip, secure car rental insurance through your travel insurance plan. This coverage can protect you in case of a car accident, as well as:

• other accidents
• trip cancellations

By securing insurance, you can drive with confidence and peace of mind.

To compare travel insurance plans, consider using websites like Yonder and Travel Insurance Master . These platforms can help you find the best insurance coverage for your needs and budget, ensuring you are well-protected while driving in Italy.

Italian Road Rules

For a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Italy, getting acquainted with some basic Italian road rules is necessary. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Keep to the right
• Obey speed limits
• Don’t run red lights
• Use mirrors on winding roads
• Be aware of speed traps, such as Autovelox and Sistema Tutor, which extensively monitor speed through highway cameras.

In Italy, right turns at red lights are consistently prohibited. Additionally, mirrors are placed on the side of the road adjacent to corners to help drivers perceive what may be coming and avoid potential difficulties. Observing these rules can minimize the risk of traffic violations and ensure a smooth journey.

Being aware of Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs) – city areas with restricted access to certain vehicles at specific times – is also necessary.

To recognize and avoid ZTLs, look for specific signs at each entrance and check municipality websites for maps and additional information.

Parking and Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs)

Parking in Italy can be challenging, especially in popular tourist destinations and city centers.

To find free parking, consider looking for parking lots with shuttle services outside major cities. You can use pay lots with GPS assistance to locate available parking spaces inside cities.

Comprehending street parking designations is vital to avoiding fines and towing.

In Italy, street parking color designations are indicated by blue and white signs with a ‘P’ and yellow curbs for designated parking for persons with disabilities. Additionally, some areas use a parking disc system to regulate free parking spaces with time restrictions.

Remember to be cautious of Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs), areas in cities where access is restricted to certain vehicles, typically during specified times of the day.

To avoid entering a ZTL without the required permits or exemptions, pay attention to signs at each entrance and consult municipality websites for maps and additional information.

Roadside Emergencies and Traffic Tickets

In case of a roadside emergency, while driving in Italy, you have a few options for assistance:

• Ensure your rental company offers 24/7 assistance.
• Call ACI (Automobile Club d’Italia) for English-speaking support.
• If you cannot connect with either, all major motorways in Italy have emergency phones located every mile.

If you receive a traffic ticket while driving in Italy, you will likely receive an email notification from your rental car company and an administrative fee.

To reduce the traffic ticket cost, pay the fine online as soon as possible using the IBAN number on the ticket. This method is the most efficient way to settle your traffic violations and avoid additional expenses.

Being prepared for roadside emergencies and traffic tickets allows you to confidently navigate Italy’s roads and concentrate on enjoying your trip.

Top Destinations and Itineraries

One of the best ways to experience Italy’s natural, cultural, and historical destinations is by car. Some of the premier road trip itineraries in Italy for American tourists include:

• The Amalfi Coast
• The Great Dolomites Road
• Emilia-Romagna

These destinations offer stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and delectable cuisine.

To optimize your road trip, here are some steps to follow:

• Conduct pre-trip research on your selected destinations.
• Compile a cheat sheet of Italian road signs to help you confidently navigate unfamiliar roads.
• Make a list of must-see attractions to ensure you don’t miss any during your trip.

By following these steps, you can have a successful and enjoyable road trip in Italy.

Whether exploring the Colosseum in Rome, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or the natural beauty of Lago di Garda, driving in Italy fully immerses you in the country’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Alternatives to Driving in Italy

While driving in Italy provides freedom and flexibility, it might not be the ideal choice for everyone.

If you prefer not to drive, consider using public transportation to explore Italy’s major tourist cities, such as Florence, Rome, and Milan. Italy’s public transportation system, particularly the train and bus network, is generally reliable.

To simplify travel planning, use Omio , a booking platform to explore train and bus routes and reserve tickets. This can help you find the most suitable travel arrangements for your schedule and budget.

Whether you drive or use public transportation, there are plenty of ways to experience Italy’s breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture.

American Driving In Italy Conclusion

In conclusion, driving in Italy as an American is possible and an exciting way to explore this beautiful country.

By obtaining an IDP, renting a car, and familiarizing yourself with Italian road rules, you can confidently navigate Italy’s roads and discover its natural, cultural, and historical treasures.

Whether you drive or use public transportation, Italy awaits your visit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive in italy with a us license.

Yes, tourists may use their valid American driver’s license if accompanied by an official translation in Italian. Residents must apply for an Italian license within one year of registration.

Can I rent a car in Italy without an international driver’s license?

Yes, you can rent a car in Italy without an international driver’s license, but it is legally required and could result in a hefty fine if stopped by the police without one. Obtaining an International Driver’s Permit before arriving is recommended to avoid any potential issues.

What are the driving rules in Italy for tourists?

Driving in Italy requires drivers to be over 18 years of age, drive on the right side of the road, and overtake to the left. Dipped headlights must be used on two-lane motorways, and the horn should only be used in emergencies.

What is the recommended type of transmission when renting a car in Italy?

For an optimal driving experience in Italy, renting a car with an automatic transmission is recommended.

How can I obtain a Telepass device for Italian toll roads?

Request a Telepass device from your rental car company when booking your vehicle to access Italian toll roads easily.

Before You Leave, Read This:

• Italian Coffee Types and Etiquette – A Practical Overview
• 10 Famous Italian Chefs (Some You May Not Heared About) – Our Hall of Fame
• Exploring the Wines of Veneto and All The Region Has To Offer
• Italian Wine Regions – Practically Explained

Related Articles:

Friuli Venezia Giulia Wine Region And Their Best Wines

Top 50 Things Italy is Known For: A Cultural Journey

Exploring the Tuscany Wine Region: Wines, Vineyards, Wine Trails.

Exploring The Wines of Liguria: Cinque Terre and Beyond

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A Nomad on the Loose

I am from everywhere and nowhere, and i am going anywhere and everywhere., driving in italy: what you need to know before you go.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one and purchase something, I may receive an affiliate commission — at no extra cost to you.

Driving in Italy is essential if you want to visit smaller towns without a tour. We knew we wanted to do some wine country touring in Tuscany , so a rental car was definitely in the cards for us.

Here are 7 things to know before you rent a car in Italy. (There’s a slight skew for a U.S. audience but most of this is relevant for all drivers, especially non-EU ones!)

1. You must have an International Driving Permit

To drive in Italy, you must either have an Italian driver’s license or one issued by a European Union country. If you don’t have one of those, you need to get an International Driving Permit.

In most cases, you’ll need to show both your U.S. license and your IDP to rent a car in Italy. (Rental agencies are not required to ask for them, though. But just because they don’t ask doesn’t mean the cops won’t if you’re stopped!)

The International Driving Permit, which translates your driver’s lic ense info into multiple languages, is valid in more than 150 countries around the world. (The most glaring opt-out is China, hence why I did not participate in driving on my northwestern China road trip .)

In the U.S, only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue you an International Driving Permit.

To get one, all you need is two passport photos, your regular U.S. driver’s license, an IDP application, and $20. If you do it in-person, it only takes approximately 10 minutes for the whole process.

IDPs are valid for one year.

But what if you’re already in Italy without an IDP in hand? Other countries are not allowed to issue International Driving Permits for U.S. licenses.

Instead, you must get a notarized translation of your license. Here’s a sample list of translators from the U.S. Consulate General in Florence.

If you’re in Italy for longer periods of time, you can also mail your application into AAA .

Regular turnaround time is at least 4-6 weeks, though, and even expedited service will take up to 10 business days after your IDP application is received and processed. So that’s really only an option if you’re overseas and realize you need an IDP for a future road trip.

2. It’s best to know how to drive manual

If you’re like me, all you’ve ever driven is an automatic. But as you may know, manual cars are still the dominant type in most of the world.

While you can shop around and look for an automatic rental, you’ll find it much easier to book a car if you know how to drive manual.

You may even find it essential.

Two of our friends went to northern Italy recently and booked an automatic car. They arrived at the rental car office only to be told that while their reservation was for an automatic, that location didn’t have any in the lot that day.

Thankfully, one of them did drive manual growing up, so she begrudgingly drove the manual. Otherwise, their options would have been to wait until an automatic car was returned or find their way to a bigger city where they might have more options. Yikes!

Decide at this point that you’d rather not drive? Good thing Italy’s tourism industry is well-developed and there are plenty of small group and private tour options to choose from instead. 

3. Be ready to pack it in

Yes, I know this is more or less a uniquely American thing, but I never fail to feel like a giant when I get into cars in other countries. ( Nepal is probably #1 on my list of “places where I hit my head and knees in cars all the time.”)

Fortunately, we’re relatively light travelers, so we didn’t have too much problem fitting ourselves and our stuff in the car. If you tend to travel with more luggage, however, keep in mind that space is limited in most rental cars in Italy.

Say hello to our little Fiat. I can’t imagine a family of four who packs on the heavier side making it work with one of these cars!

4. Be aware of ZTLs

As with driving anywhere new, you should definitely familiarize yourself with Italian road rules and signs before getting behind the wheel. We loved this site’s straightforward, sometimes humorous, rundown.

You should also download an offline translating app like Google Translate to help you make sense of road signs along the way.

But of all the things to know, you should 110% be familiar with and be aware of ZTLs. Zona Traffico Limitato means Limited Traffic Zone, but in many cases, it really means no cars period.

ZTLs exist in the historic areas of many cities and towns, and the signs will often specify when the restriction is enforced and whether there are exceptions.

Rental cars are almost never allowed inside ZTLs during enforceable hours, so don’t go in just because you see someone else do it or because your GPS says so.

If you’re staying in a ZTL area, ask the folks at your accommodations whether they have a ZTL pass for you. For example, one of our hotels in Siena offered a ZTL pass that would allow us to drive in and unload our luggage if we wanted to.

Last note on this topic: don’t try to break the driving laws in Italy just because you don’t see any police around.

Italy has traffic cameras all over the place, and if you drive through a ZTL or otherwise break a law, you’ll likely find a ticket and a fine in the mail sooner or later. They have 360 days to send you the ticket and can collect the fine beyond that deadline. (Our fingers are still crossed that we didn’t accidentally break any laws!)

5. Set your parking disc

This is a nifty little thing we should implement in the U.S.!

Basically, this disc parking system, which is popular in the EU, helps local governments manage free parking spaces that have time restrictions.

Let’s say you find an area that has 2-hour free parking. You park, turn your parking disc dial to the time, and then you make sure to move your car before those two hours is up.

In other words, the little blue disc allows for auto-regulation of parking limits. An enforcer would simply have to check the times on the discs to know if someone has overstayed their welcome. (Why are our parking cops still using chalk on tires???)

6. Have cash for gas stations

Italy has both self-serve gas stations as well as ones with attendants.

If you find yourself at a self-serve station, make sure to have cash in smaller bills.

If you have a true chip-and-PIN card, you should be okay. But for most Americans, true chip-and-PIN cards still aren’t part of our wallets. (Even the high-end travel credit cards are still mostly just chip cards.)

The machines won’t accept cards that aren’t chip-and-PIN, which means you’ll need cash. Except the machines generally don’t give change, either. So that means you should have pretty exact cash.

Try to calculate how much gas your car needs, convert it to liters, and then estimate how much money to put in the machine. It’d suck to put in 50 euros and only need 23 euros worth of gas!

7. Download offline maps

This last one really applies to all travel, whether you’re driving or not!

Download offline maps using Google Maps or Maps.Me to make sure you’re never stuck and unsure of where to go.

If you don’t heed this advice and get stuck, well, at least Italians are super generous and helpful on the roads!

Ready to go driving in Italy? Pin it to share it! 

13 thoughts on “ Driving in Italy: What You Need to Know Before You Go ”

Great tips! The first point is actually quite interesting to me – are British people going to have to get an IDL after we leave the EU, I wonder…??

Great question! Looks like y’all may need to if there’s no Brexit deal. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prepare-to-drive-in-the-eu-after-brexit

What a super handy guide! And, very timely as I’m looking to do a mini road trip this summer to the Dolomites and I hear that driving really is the only way to go. I did know about getting the international driver’s permit and I am worried about the manual transmission. I’ve never driven one. I’m hoping I can find a driving school near me that offers manual training…I’m definitely saving this post to reference as I get closer to my trip. Thanks!

I’m was so glad my partner knows how to drive manual bc I don’t know that i would have trusted myself even if i learned it. (I don’t have a car and rarely drive these days.) Good luck on learning!

Great information! Planning a visit this October and wanted to drive from Rome down the coast. Could you provide any insight into driving habits?

Glad this article is helpful for you!

Not sure where you’re from, but compared to the roads in the U.S., the roads there are a little narrower. Then again, the cars are generally smaller as well. The drivers aren’t as aggressive, in our opinion, and speed limits are generally lower than in the U.S. I think the hardest parts for us were finding the speed limit signs and understanding their road rules.

Hopefully we’ll be able to travel to Italy by October!

Cheers, Rowena

Awesome post, thanks for sharing!

Thank you! Just found out we are moving to Naples. Any advice on where to rent a car for long term, lease or skins were just buy a used car over there?

Congrats, what an exciting move! Unfortunately I have not actually lived in Italy, so I am not equipped to answer this question. May I suggest the Girls Love Travel Facebook group? There are travelers from all over the world, and I bet someone from Italy or who has lived there can help you.

Are there age restrictions for renting a car?

I believe it is 21, though some companies will rent to those 18 and above. I would suggest calling a rental company or two in the city you are planning to rent from.

Can you use a digital IDP?

Unfortunately, I am not sure. A paper copy is more commonly accepted, so it may be safer to get that.

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Everything you need to know about driving in Italy: road rules, tips and useful information

Automobile Club d'Italia

Have you decided to explore Italy on an on-the-road trip by car, motorbike or camper van? If so, here are the rules and tips for travelling safely and not spoiling your holiday with fines or penalties. Use caution and common sense, respect the rules of the new Italian Highway Code and enjoy the beautiful scenery - but always concentrate on driving. 

What are the requirements and documents necessary for driving in Italy?

To drive in Italy you must be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid driving licence. The basic documents vary, depending on the type of vehicle.

The mandatory documents for a car from an EU country are :

• Registration certificate
• Driving licence
• Insurance policy.

The mandatory documents for a car from a non-EU country, on the other hand, are :

• Driving licence issued by a foreign non-EU country
• International driving licence or sworn translation of the licence
• Green card or temporary border insurance policy, to be checked with your insurance company
• Sticker with the initials of the country you are travelling from.

The same documents required for travelling by car apply for travelling by motorbike . On motorbikes it is mandatory to wear a UE approved helmet.

If the motorbike has an Italian number plate, you must show your vehicle tax payment sticker.

For camper vans, on the other hand, you must hold:

• Driving licence from an EU country
• If non-EU, international driving licence or a sworn translation of the licence
• Insurance - civil liability against third parties
• Vehicle registration card if EU; for non-EU, check whether you need a green card or temporary border insurance policy, and affix a sticker with the country's initials.

Requirements for renting a vehicle in Italy

Documents required for renting a car in Italy are:

• Driving licence from an EU country, held for at least one year
• If non-EU, international driving permit or a sworn translation of the licence
• Identity document
• Credit card in the driver's name.

The advice is to always check whether there are any age limits for the driver. Many companies require drivers to be at least 21 or 23 years of age to rent a car in Italy , with a maximum age limit of between 65 and 75. It is almost always necessary to have had a driving licence for at least one year.

What to keep in your car: car essentials

• Warning triangle , which must be positioned at least 50 metres from the rear of the car in the event of an emergency stop.
• Reflective jacket or high-visibility braces to be worn in the event of an accident or breakdown outside of built-up areas.
• Seat belts for the driver and passengers. When travelling with children under 1.50 metres tall, additional caution is required: they must sit in approved child seats.
• On motorbikes, if the driver is under 16 years of age , he cannot carry a passenger. Helmets are always compulsory. Persons over 16 years of age on a motorbike may carry a child over the age of 5, with a helmet. 

The main road rules to be followed in Italy

In Italy, driving is on the right-hand side , and the vehicle must occupy the free lane furthest to the right of the carriageway, while the emergency lane is reserved for emergency and rescue vehicles. Always maintain an adequate safety distance .

At roundabouts , priority should be given to those coming from the right, unless otherwise indicated.

Pay attention to Italian road signs : green signs indicate motorways, blue ones are for suburban roads and white for urban roads.

The speed limits in Italy

Do not exceed the speed limits : 130 km/h on motorways, 110 km/h on main roads, 90 km/h on secondary and local roads, 50 km/h in built-up areas.

Speed limits for newly-qualified drivers are the same for urban roads and secondary or local roads. Those who have held their licence for under three years, however, must observe special speed limits on motorways (100 km/h) and on main roads (90 km/h).

For camper vans , the limits are: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h outside of built-up areas, 100 km/h on motorways (if over 3.5 t and up to 12 t total laden mass), 50 km/h in built-up areas, 70 km/h outside of built-up areas, 80 km/h on motorways (if over 12 t total laden mass).

For motorbikes and mini-cars up to 50 cc the maximum speed is 45 km/h. They are not allowed to drive on motorways, although this is possible for more powerful motorcycles.

Now let's move on to sidelights: when should they be switched on? You must always keep your sidelights and dipped beams on outside of built-up areas. Dipped beams, on the other hand, should be used from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise or in the event of poor visibility. In tunnels , dipped beams are mandatory and parking is prohibited. Motorcyclists must also keep their sidelights and dipped beams on in built-up areas.

Always stop at pedestrian crossings and do not drive in lanes reserved for public transport and in areas marked as ZTL (restricted traffic zones), i.e. in historic town centres, at the times indicated on the signs. If you are staying in a hotel within this area, report the registration plate number so that the managers can provide you with a permit.

Beware of parking fines!

Pay attention to the colour of the markings : the blue lines indicate paid parking, so go to a tobacconist for an hourly coupon or use the machines in or near the car parks. White lines mean that parking is free, and yellow lines indicate that spaces are reserved.

Do not park in areas reserved for the disabled . These parking spaces are well marked with yellow lines and often have special signs. They are free of charge for those entitled to park and their carers, who can also park free of charge on the blue lines.

Italy toll roads and motorways

In Italy, most motorways, and some tunnels, are toll roads and are therefore chargeable . They are marked with green signs and the cost of the toll generally depends on the type of vehicle and the kilometres covered.

How to pay tolls in Italy

The payment system may vary from one motorway to another, although generally you collect a ticket at the turnstile when you enter the motorway, and pay either at the exit or at the end of the toll section. The fare is paid in cash or with credit or debit cards or prepaid cards.

The Telepass (Italian toll tag) - an electronic toll payment system - is also available for foreigners. 

Tips for safe driving on Italian roads

Wear prescription glasses if you are required to, and sunglasses when necessary, and remember to wear footwear and clothing that allow you to move freely.  The use of mobile phones and electronic devices is prohibited , as is driving under the influence of drugs and/or psychotropic substances.

Alcohol driving limit in Italy

While there are no safe levels of alcohol consumption when driving, it is important to know that the permitted alcohol driving limit in Italy is 0.5 grams per litre and absolute 0 for new drivers (i.e. in the first three years after obtaining a licence) and professional drivers. This applies to all vehicles, including motorbikes.

In the event of drink-driving, penalties for high blood alcohol levels may include fines (from 527 to 6,000 euros in 2022) and/or the suspension or revocation of the driving licence, depending on the blood alcohol level detected. The law identifies three thresholds:

• Blood Alcohol level up to 0.5 grams of alcohol per litre of blood
• Blood alcohol level above 0.5 g/l but not exceeding 0.8 g/l
• Blood alcohol level of more than 0.8 g/l but not more than 1.5 g/l
• Blood alcohol level exceeding 1.5 g/l.

In the first two cases, the violation of the rule is punishable by an administrative penalty, while in the other two situations it is a criminal offence, sentenced by a court in monocratic composition, which provides, among other things, for the measure of detention.

Transporting dogs and other pets in a vehicle

Do you have your pet on board ? If so, make sure it is carried safely, in the back seats or in special cages, which are compulsory if you are transporting more than one animal. Advice for transporting dogs in cars , and animals in general, calls for common sense: make sure the animal is accustomed to being in a car, and do not travel for very long periods. Plan for numerous stops, remember to leave the rear window open a little for ventilation, and pay attention to the protection/safety systems. 

What you should do in the event of an accident

Accidents can happen, even when driving with the utmost caution. Don't panic: the Italian authorities will support you in the best possible way. In the meantime, wear a reflective vest or harness, then call the local police . To request ACI* roadside assistance , the toll-free number is 800.116.800, available 24 hours a day. 

What to do in the event of a road accident with casualties

In this situation, calling for assistance is a priority. If you cause or witness an accident in which people or animals are injured , the driver is obliged to stop and provide assistance. The Single Emergency Number 112 (NUE 112) is the telephone number for calling the emergency services in all EU countries. There are 16 languages available. However, in Italy this number is not yet active in all regions and provinces. Therefore, the usual numbers may still be valid: 118 to request an ambulance; 112 for the Carabinieri (national gendarmerie of Italy); 113 Police or Traffic Police; 115 Fire Brigade.

To find out more, you can visit the Driving in Italy section on the Automobile Club d’Italia website. 

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Russians used starvation as method of warfare in Mariupol, experts say

Russian forces deliberately used starvation of civilians as a military tactic during the 85-day siege of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, international legal experts said in a report published on Thursday.