Driving in Iceland can be daunting. The weather here is unpredictable and different to what most people will have experienced in their home countries. Driving for most tourists here comprises the Ring Road and exiting/entering the city, but there can be a lot to keep in mind for just one single carriageway road! 

In this blog we’ll outline some of the basic rules that you might not be aware of, as well as listing some of the best resources you can use to plan your journey once you get to Iceland.

Road rules to note that might differ from your country:

We drive on the right hand side of the road in Iceland

This isn’t a problem for most people coming from left-hand drive countries, but it can be a little intimidating when passing large vehicles on the Ring Road. Our advice is to focus on your position on the road as a driver. If you need your front-seat passenger to give you some calm advice about how close you are to the side of the road that can help too. The trick for both of you is just to breathe and remain calm when passing those big vehicles, and slow down gently if you need to. 

The inner circle has right of way on a roundabout!

This one can confuse even the people who live here. Imagine there are two lanes heading into a round-about. The right-hand lane is for those turning right immediately. The left-hand lane is for those heading straight ahead or taking the third- or fourth- exits – this is pretty standard in most countries.

Sometimes as you’re using the outside lane, someone in the inside lane will need to exit and they have priority in Iceland. This means that they can cut across the outside lane and you’ll need to stop to let them do so. It also means that if you accidentally end up in the outside lane and need to keep going straight, you need to signal left as in ‘back in’ to the roundabout and you’ll have to wait for anyone on the inside lane to cut across you. Then you just continue in the outside lane to the next exit or keep signalling ‘back in’ and minding people on the inside until you reach your exit. 

It can take a little bit of practice to keep your eyes out for people on your left. Thankfully, most people are aware of the fact not everyone knows these round-about rules and people will usually look you in the eye before driving in front of you on their way out. People are also used to cars in front of them braking in round-abouts. Just remember to check if someone needs to cross in front of you to exit from your left-hand side and you’ll be fine! 

If you want to read more about this, check out an article from Iceland review on this unique driving rule.

-Lights must be on at all times (most cars the lights will come on automatically but double check)

-Wear your seatbelt at all times

Stopping in the middle of the road

One of the most important things to remember in Iceland is do not stop at the side of the road. This is a big problem here, especially in the summer as tourists pull over, stop suddenly, or stand in the road to take photos. If you want to stop you must pull into a slip road, picnic area or road off the main road. You must never pull over on the main road or stand in the road. Traffic moves fast at 90 km/h on most main roads and it is dangerous to you and the cars around you if you do this. Please bear this in mind and drive courteously.

Look at the signs on the road

The electric sign boards seen on the sides of the road will display the location and temperature but also wind gusts. These are marked in red and counted in metres per second. By paying attention to these, you can be prepared for upcoming conditions and make an informed decision of whether you would like to carry on or stop somewhere safely to assess the weather and make a new plan. 

Plan your journey

Weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and play a large part in hazardous driving conditions. Please visit the following sites before planning your trip as these will help you to be equipped with the best knowledge. You might have to be flexible in Iceland so always keep a contingency budget aside just in case. Do not put yourself in a dangerous position just to get to the next hotel as it might be safer to stay where you are. 

Take note of the speed limit.

Websites of note: 

vedur.is This is the main meteorological site in Iceland and gives up to date weather reports and warnings.

road.is This is the most important site to check before you go for a drive, here you can see up to date road conditions, any closures, webcams and wind speeds. It is especially important to check this when travelling in winter, so you are not caught by surprise by slippery conditions. 

Safetravel.is This website publishes any official warnings and closures on their website, they will also have screens in petrol stations with any up to date warnings or changes. 

Ask the locals: Speak to your hotel before setting off as they will always be able to check conditions for you. If you are coming on a tour with us, get in touch! We will always send communication about any unfavourable conditions the day before if they will affect the tour, however we are more than happy to help at any time so if you want a second opinion or information on the weather where we are just give us a call. 

If you are just about to come to Iceland and rent the car for your big trip – feel free to check road signs in Iceland.