Although the countries belong to the European Union, some basic traffic rules may differ
With the summer holidays approaching, many Spaniards are thinking
traveling by car all over the European continent. Like the job of
to drive carries a great responsibility, it is always important to anticipate the situation and know the specific regulations of each country.
The first thing you notice is that the
drivers license Spanish people
Valid to drive while it is in effect, there is no need to perform any procedure if you are in transit or on holiday within the European Union and the European Economic Area (Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein)
When traveling to another foreign country, it is necessary to
International license It should be remembered that after ‘Brexit’ the United Kingdom will no longer belong to the European Union and that this authorization would also be required.
The countries of the European Union have most of the rules in common, but there are some details that may differ. The DGT reminds of the most important details to take into account:
Alcohol: The maximum permitted blood alcohol percentages are between 0 and 0.8. The predominant one is 0.5 g/l.
In the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania, the rate is 0.0 for all drivers. In Austria, Croatia, Slovenia and Italy only for novice drivers.
Belt: Seat belts and child restraint systems are mandatory in all countries, except for medical reasons, for certain occupants and in certain vehicles.
Speed: In many countries there are specific restrictions in urban areas such as: residential areas, near schools or streets with priority for cyclists. Fourteen countries set the maximum intercity speed at 130 km/h and 6 at 120. The maximum limit in Malta is 80 and in Latvia 90, the lowest in Europe.
On French highways, the maximum is 130 km/h under normal conditions, 100 in rain or wet asphalt and 50 when visibility is less than 50 meters. In the German ‘Autobahn’ (motorways without tolls) there are sections without restriction, where it is recommended to drive with a maximum of 130.
Bicycle path: In Belgium, cars are allowed to drive on cycle paths without overtaking or exceeding 30 km/h. In the Netherlands, cycle paths marked with solid lines are prohibited for other vehicles.
– Emergency lane: In countries such as Germany, Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, Hungary, Romania or Switzerland, there are emergency lanes on highways, which can only be used in an emergency or with explicit permission. For example, an invasion of Italy is punishable by a fine of up to 1,500 euros.
– Helmet:
It is mandatory in all countries on motorcycles and mopeds.
In Slovakia and Hungary it is also mandatory for all cyclists outside the city.
Austria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Slovakia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta and Sweden, for minors.
In Switzerland it is mandatory if the cyclist exceeds 20 km/h.
Drive to the left: In Ireland you drive on the left and need time to adjust. The DGT recommends extreme caution, especially on roundabouts.
Low beam: Driving with daytime running lights (LCD) or low beams on (for all vehicles, day and night all year round) is mandatory in: Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Finland, Hungary and Romania (only on the road), Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Sweden and Switzerland. In Bulgaria and Croatia only during the winter months.
drugs: All countries prohibit driving under the influence of drugs and medicines that impair driving ability. Some, such as Denmark or Estonia and Norway, have a list of banned substances that are classified as dangerous.
Mobile phone: Its use is prohibited for all drivers on all European roads, except in hands-free mode. Only Sweden allows it without hands-free; yes, as long as it doesn’t interfere with driving. In Ireland, the fine for using a mobile phone while driving is up to €2,000.
Source: La Verdad

I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.