All drivers should carry their pink/green EU licence with them at all
times in their car, together with their passport or identity document.
Holders of a green UK licence should also carry an Italian translation
(refer to AA or RAC). If bringing your own car, check with your insurers
if your policy extends your UK cover to other European countries and always
take your proof of cover plus your vehicle registration document with
you. A green card is technically only required for citizens of non-EU
countries but it may be advisable for other nationalities too to avoid
hassle!
Italians drive on the right and tend to be somewhat erratic, so you will need to have your wits about you at all times! An intention to overtake is often accompanied by the flashing of headlights and the sounding of the horn. To reduce pollution in the cities and indeed in many of the medieval towns, cars may not be allowed into the historic centres or parking severely restricted.
Speed limits
These are fixed at 50km/h in towns / built-up areas, 110km/h on main
roads outside urban areas, 90km/h on secondary and local roads and 130km/h
on motorways. For cars towing trailers or caravans the limits are 80
km/h on all roads outside urban areas and 100km/h on motorways. To convert
kilometres to miles: halve the kilometre figure, add one quarter of
your answer and you will get the equivalent in miles. For example, 130km/h
works out at about 81mph.
Headlights
It is obligatory for cars to have dipped
headlights on - even in the daytime - on all roads outside of urban/built
up areas.
Seatbelts
It is obligatory to wear seatbelts both in front and back seats (though
you will see many Italian drivers ignoring this). Babies aged up to 9
months (weighing up to 9kg) must be strapped into a baby seat usually
in the front. Children aged 9 months - 4 years must be in a child seat
attached to the back seat. Children aged between 4-12 years must wear
a seat belt and sit in the back.
Drink/Driving
The regulations in Italy are stricter than in the UK : 0.5mg of alcohol per millilitre of blood (UK 0.8mg).
Unlike in the UK, on the spot fines may be issued for speeding or drink/driving offences.
Holiday Property Search Frequently Asked Questions Contact Us All About Italy Travel & Transport Useful Links Home
