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🇮🇸Complete Guide 2026Updated March 2026

Iceland Driving Licence 2026
The Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about getting your driving licence in Iceland — Samgöngustofa theory test (50 true/false, 90% pass mark), total cost (ISK 270,000–400,000 / ~$2,000–3,000 USD), 0.02% BAC (one of the strictest in the world), mandatory winter tyres, F-road restrictions, and the Ring Road.

3
Test Centres
50
Test Questions
10
Road Deaths (2025)
ISK 270–400K
Total Cost
3 Test CentresFee BreakdownSpeed LimitsTraffic FinesLicence Categories
Copy

10

Road deaths in Iceland (2025)

~2.6 per 100K — among the safest in the world — Samgöngustofa / Statistics Iceland

Copy

~2.6

Deaths per 100,000 population

Norway ~2.0, Sweden ~2.0, Finland ~3.2, Germany ~3.4 — Iceland among world’s safest

Copy

ISK 270–400K

Total cost for driving licence

Driving school + tests + licence fee (ISK 8,600) — approx. $2,000–3,000 USD

Click any card to copy the stat with source attribution

Download Infographic

Key Findings

Theory TestSamgöngustofa

The Icelandic driving theory test consists of 50 true/false statements. Duration: 25 minutes. Pass mark: 90% (45/50 correct). Fee: ISK 7,583. The test is administered by Samgöngustofa (ICETRA) at authorised test centres. Available in Icelandic, English, and Polish.

Total CostSamgöngustofa

ISK 270,000–400,000 (~$2,000–3,000 USD) for the complete driving licence process. This includes driving school enrolment and training, theory test fee (ISK 7,583), practical test fee (ISK 18,820), and licence fee (ISK 8,600). Costs vary depending on the driving school and how many additional lessons are needed.

Road DeathsSamgöngustofa / Statistics Iceland

10 fatalities in 2025 (~2.6 per 100K). Iceland recorded 13 deaths in 2024, 8 in 2023, and 9 in 2022. With a population of ~383,000, even small changes in absolute numbers cause large swings in the per-capita rate. Key hazards include extreme wind, single-lane bridges, and sheep on roads.

BAC LimitLögreglan (Icelandic Police)

0.02% (0.2‰) — one of the strictest in the world. Lowered from 0.05% in 2019. Effectively a zero-tolerance policy. Penalties include heavy fines (ISK 100,000+), licence suspension, and imprisonment for repeat offences. Same strictness as Norway and Sweden.

F-Roads & HighlandsVegagerðin (Road Administration)

Iceland’s F-roads (highland roads) require 4WD vehicles and are only open mid-June to early October. They involve river crossings without bridges, rough gravel surfaces, and extreme isolation. Driving a 2WD vehicle on F-roads is illegal and carries heavy fines. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited and can result in fines up to ISK 400,000.

Global ContextSamgöngustofa / ETSC

Death rate ~2.6/100K vs Norway ~2.0, Finland ~3.2, Germany ~3.4, USA 12.2. Drives on the right. 0.02% BAC. No motorways (90 km/h maximum). Mandatory winter tyres Nov 1–Apr 15. Headlights mandatory 24/7. Km-based road tax since Jan 2026 (6.95 ISK/km).

Iceland Road Safety: Trends (2021–2025)

According to Samgöngustofa and Statistics Iceland, Iceland recorded {deaths} in 2025, down from 13 in 2024. With a population of only ~383,000, Iceland’s road fatality statistics are volatile — a single multi-fatality crash can significantly alter the annual rate. Key challenges include extreme weather (wind gusts of 90–145 km/h), single-lane bridges (~30 on the Ring Road), sheep wandering onto roads in summer, volcanic ash/sandstorms, and winter darkness. Despite these hazards, Iceland maintains one of the world’s lowest road death rates at approximately 2.6 per 100,000.

2021
5
2022
9
2023
8
2024
13
2025
10

2021→2022

+80%

2022→2023

−11%

2023→2024

+63%

2024→2025

−23%

Deaths per 100,000 Population

🇩🇪Germany
3.4
🇫🇮Finland
3.2
🇮🇸Iceland
2.6
🇸🇪Sweden
2
🇳🇴Norway
1.6

Source: Samgöngustofa (Icelandic Transport Authority), Statistics Iceland, ETSC. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.

Table of Contents

Road Safety DataTheory Test FormatLicence ProcessFeesLicence CategoriesSpeed LimitsTraffic FinesImportant RulesRoad HazardsTest CentresEmergency NumbersMisconceptionsRecent ChangesGlobal ComparisonFAQSourcesCite This Page
Samgöngustofa Exam

Iceland Theory Test Format#

Theory tests are administered by Samgöngustofa (ICETRA) at authorised test centres in Iceland

Iceland requires a computer-based theory test administered by Samgöngustofa (Icelandic Transport Authority / ICETRA). The test consists of 50 true/false statements covering traffic rules, road signs, speed limits, hazard awareness, and Icelandic-specific regulations such as F-road rules, single-lane bridge etiquette, and winter driving. Duration: 25 minutes. The pass mark is 90% — you must answer at least 45 out of 50 correctly. This is one of the highest pass marks in Europe. Available in Icelandic, English, and Polish.

Questions

50

True/false statements

Duration

25 Min

~30 seconds per question

Pass Mark

90%

45 out of 50 correct

Test Fee

ISK 7,583

Theory test fee

What the Theory Test Covers

Traffic Signs & Rules
  • Traffic signals, road signs, and road markings
  • Right-of-way rules and roundabout priority
  • Speed limits by road type (urban, gravel, paved rural)
  • Parking and stopping regulations
  • Single-lane bridge etiquette (yield to closer vehicle)
Vehicle & Safety
  • Seatbelt and child restraint regulations
  • Winter tyre requirements (Nov 1–Apr 15, min 3mm tread)
  • Headlights mandatory 24/7 — day and night, year-round
  • Warning triangle and hazard light usage
  • Accident procedures and reporting to Lögreglan (police)
Icelandic-Specific Regulations
  • F-roads: 4WD only, river crossings, seasonal closures
  • Off-road driving strictly prohibited (fines up to ISK 400,000)
  • Sheep and livestock on roads (driver’s responsibility)
  • Extreme wind safety (gusts 90–145 km/h)
  • Ring Road (Route 1) driving: single-lane sections, blind hills
island.isPractice Theory Questions Free
Step by Step

How to Get Your Icelandic Driving Licence#

From enrolment to full licence — the complete step-by-step process

1

Enrol at a Driving School (Ökuskóli)

Register and begin theory instruction

Register at a licensed driving school (ökuskóli). You must be at least 16 to obtain a learner permit (æfingarleyfi). For a B-category licence, the minimum age is 17. Bring your national ID (kennitala) or passport. Training includes both theory and practical instruction.

2

Complete Theory Training

Classroom instruction on traffic rules and Icelandic-specific topics

Complete the required theory training covering Icelandic traffic law, road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, F-road regulations, single-lane bridge etiquette, winter driving, livestock hazards, and emergency procedures.

3

Pass the Theory Test (Bílpróf — fræðiprufa)

50 true/false statements, 25 minutes, 90% pass mark (45/50)

The computer-based theory test consists of 50 true/false statements. Duration: 25 minutes. Pass mark: 90% (45/50 correct). Fee: ISK 7,583. Available in Icelandic, English, and Polish. You can retake the test after a waiting period if you fail.

4

Complete Practical Driving Training

Learn driving skills including winter and rural road techniques

Practical training includes basic vehicle control, parking, lane changes, roundabout navigation, rural road driving, and defensive driving. Iceland’s driving schools emphasize winter driving, single-lane bridge approaches, gravel road handling, and wind safety.

5

Pass the Practical Test & Receive Your Licence

Practical test fee ISK 18,820, then 3-year probation

The practical driving test costs ISK 18,820 and evaluates your ability to drive safely in real traffic conditions. Upon passing, apply for your licence (ISK 8,600). You enter a 3-year probation period (reynslutími) during which stricter rules apply. After probation, the licence is valid for 15 years.

Cost Breakdown

Iceland Driving Licence Fees#

Total cost typically ISK 270,000–400,000 (~$2,000–3,000 USD) including driving school, tests, and licence

Driving school enrolment and trainingISK 200,000–320,000
Theory test feeISK 7,583
Practical test feeISK 18,820
Licence fee (Ökuskírteini)ISK 8,600
Additional driving lessons (per lesson)ISK 8,000–12,000
First aid course (if required)ISK 10,000–20,000
Medical certificate (læknisvottorð)ISK 5,000–10,000
Licence renewal (after 15 years)ISK 8,600
Total Typical (driving school + tests + licence)ISK 270,000–400,000

Costs vary by driving school. Reykjavík tends to have slightly more options and competitive pricing. The number of additional lessons needed varies greatly between learners. Exchange rate context: approximately ISK 1 ≈ $0.0073 USD / ISK 137 ≈ $1 USD (March 2026).

Categories

Licence Categories & Minimum Age

AM — Moped

15 years — mopeds up to 45 km/h

15

years

A1 — Light motorcycle

16 years — up to 125cc / 11 kW

16

years

B — Car

17 years — standard car licence

17

years

C — Truck

21 years — heavy goods vehicles

21

years

Licence Validity

Probation (new drivers)

Stricter rules during probation period (reynslutími)

3 years
Standard (under 70)

Full licence after probation

15 years
Age 70–79

Medical check required at renewal

4 years (progressive)
Age 80+

Annual medical check required

1 year

Penalty Points System

  • Iceland uses a 12-point system over a rolling 3-year period
  • Accumulating 12 points results in a 3-month licence suspension
  • Points are assigned based on offence severity (1–4 points per offence)
  • After suspension, you must retake the theory test to regain your licence
  • Probationary drivers face stricter thresholds for suspension

Foreign Licence Conversion

  • EEA licences: valid in Iceland, voluntary exchange available
  • Non-EEA licences: valid for 1 month after establishing residence
  • After 1 month, must convert to an Icelandic licence — theory and practical tests may be required
  • US and Canadian licences: simplified conversion process available
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) accepted for tourists for up to 1 year
  • All conversions require a valid medical certificate (læknisvottorð)
  • Apply through Sýslumannsínni (District Commissioner)
  • Auto-only licence available since 2017 (limits you to automatic transmission only)
Speed Limits

Speed Limits in Iceland#

As per the Road Traffic Act (Umferðarlög) — all speeds in km/h. Iceland has NO motorways.

Iceland has no motorways. The maximum speed limit is 90 km/h on paved rural roads (including the Ring Road / Route 1). Urban areas are typically 50 km/h. Gravel roads are limited to 80 km/h due to reduced traction and dust hazards. Speed enforcement uses both fixed cameras and mobile police patrols. Iceland’s relatively low speed limits reflect the challenging driving conditions: narrow roads, blind hills, single-lane bridges, livestock, extreme weather, and volcanic terrain. Always reduce speed in poor visibility or wet/icy conditions.

Speed limits in Iceland by road type in km/h. Source: Road Traffic Act / Samgöngustofa.
Road TypeCarsTrucksNote
Urban Roads505030 km/h in some residential and school zones
Gravel Roads8080Reduced traction; dust hazard in summer
Paved Rural Roads (incl. Ring Road)9090Maximum speed in Iceland — no motorways

Urban Roads

50

Cars

50

Trucks

30 km/h in some residential and school zones

Gravel Roads

80

Cars

80

Trucks

Reduced traction; dust hazard in summer

Paved Rural Roads (incl. Ring Road)

90

Cars

90

Trucks

Maximum speed in Iceland — no motorways

Iceland has no motorways. 90 km/h is the absolute maximum speed limit in the country. Gravel roads require extra caution due to loose surfaces, dust clouds, and sudden transitions from paved to gravel. Speeding fines start at ISK 30,000 and increase with severity. Always observe posted signs and reduce speed in adverse conditions.

Traffic Fines

Traffic Fines & Penalties#

Iceland enforces strict fines with a penalty points system — 12 points in 3 years = 3-month suspension

Iceland imposes significant fines for traffic violations, particularly for off-road driving (up to ISK 400,000 — classified as a criminal offence), DUI (0.02% BAC limit), and speeding. The penalty points system assigns 1–4 points per offence; accumulating 12 points within a rolling 3-year period triggers an automatic 3-month licence suspension. Fines are higher than many European countries relative to average income, reflecting Iceland’s strict approach to road safety.

Traffic fines and penalties in Iceland. Source: Road Traffic Act / Lögreglan (Icelandic Police).
ViolationFinePointsOther
Speeding — 1–10 km/h overISK 30,0001—
Speeding — 11–20 km/h overISK 50,0002—
Speeding — 21–30 km/h overISK 80,000+3Possible licence suspension
Running a red lightISK 50,000+2—
Phone use while drivingISK 40,0001—
Off-road drivingUp to ISK 400,000—Criminal offence
DUI (over 0.02%)ISK 100,000+4Licence suspension + possible prison
Winter tyres violation (wrong season)ISK 20,000/tyre—Per tyre
No headlights (mandatory 24/7)ISK 15,000——
No seatbeltISK 15,000——

Speeding — 1–10 km/h over

ISK 30,000Pts: 1

Speeding — 11–20 km/h over

ISK 50,000Pts: 2

Speeding — 21–30 km/h over

ISK 80,000+Pts: 3 · Possible licence suspension

Running a red light

ISK 50,000+Pts: 2

Phone use while driving

ISK 40,000Pts: 1

Off-road driving

Up to ISK 400,000 · Criminal offence

DUI (over 0.02%)

ISK 100,000+Pts: 4 · Licence suspension + possible prison

Winter tyres violation (wrong season)

ISK 20,000/tyre · Per tyre

No headlights (mandatory 24/7)

ISK 15,000

No seatbelt

ISK 15,000

Off-road driving is a criminal offence in Iceland and can result in fines up to ISK 400,000 plus prosecution. Iceland’s fragile volcanic landscape takes decades to recover from vehicle damage. Penalty points: red light +2, phone +1, DUI +4, speeding varies. Fines may be doubled for repeat offences. Payment within 15 days may qualify for a discount. All fines in ISK (Icelandic króna). Exchange rate: ~ISK 137 = $1 USD (March 2026).

Know these rules before your theory test

Traffic fines, speed limits, BAC rules, and F-road regulations are frequently tested in the Samgöngustofa theory exam. Practice with real exam-style questions.

Start Practising Free
Key Rules

Important Driving Rules in Iceland

Drive on the Right

Iceland drives on the right side of the road. Overtake only on the left. At roundabouts, traffic already in the roundabout has priority. Left-hand drive vehicles are standard.

BAC Limit 0.02% (0.2‰)

One of the strictest in the world. Lowered from 0.05% in 2019. Effectively zero tolerance. Penalties: heavy fines (ISK 100,000+), licence suspension, potential imprisonment. Same as Norway and Sweden.

F-Roads: 4WD Only

Highland F-roads require a 4WD vehicle. Open mid-June to early October. River crossings without bridges are common. Driving a 2WD on F-roads is illegal. Check road.is for current conditions before setting out.

Off-Road Driving Strictly Banned

Driving off marked roads is a criminal offence in Iceland. Fines up to ISK 400,000. Iceland’s fragile moss and volcanic terrain takes 50–100 years to recover from vehicle tracks. There is zero tolerance for off-road driving.

Winter Tyres Mandatory (Nov 1 – Apr 15)

Winter tyres are mandatory from November 1 to April 15 with minimum 3mm tread depth. Studded tyres are allowed during the same period. Using studded tyres outside season: ISK 20,000/tyre fine. All-season M+S tyres are acceptable if they meet tread requirements.

Headlights Mandatory 24/7

Dipped headlights must be used at all times while driving, day and night, year-round. This applies to all vehicles. Required even in the 24-hour daylight of Icelandic summers. Fine: ISK 15,000.

Single-Lane Bridges

Approximately 30 single-lane bridges exist on the Ring Road (Route 1). The vehicle closer to the bridge has right of way. Slow down, look ahead, and yield to oncoming traffic if they are already on or closer to the bridge. Many are unmarked — watch for the road sign.

Km-Based Road Tax (Jan 2026)

Since January 2026, Iceland charges a distance-based road tax of 6.95 ISK/km, replacing the previous fuel tax. This applies to all vehicles. Odometer readings are verified at annual inspections (skoðun). This tax shift was introduced to maintain road funding as the fleet transitions to EVs.

Ring Road (Route 1)

The Ring Road (Hringvegur) is a 1,332 km route circling Iceland. Mostly paved, single-lane each direction. Speed limit: 90 km/h on paved sections, 80 km/h on gravel sections. Contains ~30 single-lane bridges and numerous blind hills. The most popular driving route in Iceland.

Stay Safe

Common Road Hazards in Iceland

10 road fatalities in 2025 — know these hazards to stay safe on Icelandic roads

Volcanic Ash & Sandstorms

Iceland’s volcanic desert areas (sandur) experience fierce sandstorms that strip paint from vehicles and reduce visibility to near zero. Sandstorms occur primarily in southern and eastern Iceland. Check weather forecasts (vedur.is) and road conditions (road.is) before travelling through exposed areas.

Sheep on Roads

From June to September, over 800,000 sheep roam freely across Icelandic roads, including the Ring Road. Sheep are unpredictable and may dart across suddenly. If you hit a sheep, you are legally required to find the farmer (contact the nearest farm) and are liable for compensation. Slow down in rural areas.

Single-Lane Bridges

Approximately 30 single-lane bridges on the Ring Road (Route 1) and many more on secondary roads. The vehicle closer to the bridge has right of way. Approach slowly, check for oncoming traffic, and be prepared to stop. They are a leading factor in head-on collisions.

Extreme Wind

Iceland regularly experiences wind gusts of 90–145 km/h (50–90 mph), capable of pushing vehicles off roads and ripping open car doors. Wind is especially dangerous on open highland and coastal sections. Check vedur.is for wind warnings. Avoid parking with the wind facing your door — it can be torn from its hinges.

F-Road River Crossings

Highland F-roads require fording rivers without bridges. Water levels change rapidly with rainfall and glacial melt. Never cross alone; walk the crossing first; cross at the widest, shallowest point; drive upstream at a 45° angle. Vehicles have been lost to river crossings. 4WD mandatory.

Winter Darkness & Ice

In December, Reykjavík gets only 4–5 hours of daylight. Northern Iceland has near-total darkness. Black ice is common on all road types. Winter driving requires extreme caution, slow speeds, and winter tyres (mandatory Nov 1–Apr 15). Carry emergency supplies and a charged phone.

Test Centres

Driving Test Centres in Iceland

Iceland has 3 main areas where driving tests are administered by Samgöngustofa

Iceland’s main driving test centre areas with approximate population served.
AreaCentrePopulation
Reykjavík & Capital AreaReykjavík~235K
Akureyri & North IcelandAkureyri~20K
Selfoss & South IcelandSelfoss~10K
REY

Reykjavík & Capital Area

Reykjavík · ~235K

AKU

Akureyri & North Iceland

Akureyri · ~20K

SEL

Selfoss & South Iceland

Selfoss · ~10K

Icelandic driving rules and traffic law apply uniformly across the entire country. Samgöngustofa operates test services in these areas. Reykjavík has the most driving schools and shortest wait times. A licence obtained at any centre is valid nationwide.

Emergency

Emergency Numbers

Call {number} for all emergencies in Iceland. Download the 112 Iceland app for GPS location sharing.

112

Unified Emergency (Neyðarþjónusta)

1777

Road Conditions (Vegagerðin)

112 App

112 Iceland App (GPS location)

Myth vs Fact

Common Misconceptions About Driving in Iceland#

Myth: You can drive anywhere in Iceland with a regular car

Fact: F-roads (highland roads) legally require a 4WD vehicle. Driving a 2WD on F-roads is illegal and your insurance will not cover damage. Off-road driving is a criminal offence with fines up to ISK 400,000. Even SUVs without proper 4WD capability are not permitted on F-roads.

Myth: The Ring Road is a highway you can drive fast on

Fact: The Ring Road (Route 1) is mostly single-lane each direction with a 90 km/h speed limit. It has ~30 single-lane bridges, numerous blind hills, gravel sections, and sheep crossings. It is NOT a motorway. Average driving time for the full 1,332 km circuit is 16–18 hours in ideal conditions.

Myth: Iceland has mild weather for driving

Fact: Iceland regularly experiences extreme wind gusts of 90–145 km/h, volcanic sandstorms, blizzards, black ice, and near-zero visibility. Wind alone has pushed vehicles off roads. Weather can change in minutes. Always check vedur.is and road.is before any journey.

Myth: You don’t need headlights during Iceland’s midnight sun

Fact: Headlights are mandatory 24/7 in Iceland, even during the 24-hour daylight of summer. This is a legal requirement, not optional. Fine: ISK 15,000. Dipped headlights must be on at all times while driving.

Myth: Iceland’s BAC limit is similar to other European countries

Fact: Iceland’s 0.02% (0.2‰) BAC limit is one of the strictest in the world — effectively zero tolerance. Most of Europe uses 0.05% or 0.08%. Iceland lowered its limit from 0.05% in 2019. Even a single beer can put you over the limit.

Myth: Sheep on the road are not a serious hazard

Fact: Over 800,000 sheep roam freely June–September. They are completely unpredictable and can dart across roads without warning. Hitting a sheep can cause significant vehicle damage and you are legally liable for compensation to the farmer. Multiple fatalities have involved livestock collisions.

Timeline

Recent Changes to Iceland Driving Laws#

Key regulatory updates affecting drivers in Iceland

Jan 2026

Km-based road tax: 6.95 ISK/km replaces fuel tax

Iceland introduced a distance-based road tax of 6.95 ISK/km, replacing the previous fuel tax system. This ensures all vehicles, including EVs and hybrids, contribute to road maintenance. Odometer readings are verified at annual vehicle inspections.

2019

BAC limit lowered from 0.05% to 0.02%

Iceland lowered its blood alcohol content limit from 0.05% to 0.02%, making it one of the strictest in the world alongside Norway and Sweden. This effectively created a zero-tolerance policy for drink driving.

2017

Auto-only driving licence introduced

Iceland introduced the option to obtain an automatic-transmission-only driving licence. Holders are restricted to driving vehicles with automatic transmission. This mirrors similar provisions in other European countries.

2024

Theory test available in more languages; F-road closures tightened

The theory test was made available in additional languages including Polish. F-road opening and closing dates were more strictly enforced, with GPS monitoring trialled to detect early access violations.

2023

Increased penalties for off-road driving; 112 app promoted

Maximum fines for off-road driving were increased to ISK 400,000 with potential criminal prosecution. The 112 Iceland emergency app was heavily promoted to tourists for automatic GPS location sharing in emergencies.

Global Context

How Iceland Compares Globally#

Iceland driving regulations compared to other Nordic/European countries — data compiled from official government sources

Comparison of driving regulations between Iceland, Norway, Finland, Sweden, and Germany including BAC limits, minimum age, speed limits, licence costs, and road fatality statistics.
ParameterIcelandNorwayFinlandSwedenGermany
BAC Limit0.02%0.02%0.05%0.02%0.05%
Min. Age (Car)1718181818
Driving SideRightRightRightRightRight
Highway Speed90110120120No limit*
Test Questions5045707030
Licence CostISK 270–400KNOK 25–50K€1.2–3KSEK 15–25K€2–3.5K
Road Deaths/yr101111802082,814
Deaths/100K~2.6~2.0~3.2~2.0~3.4
BAC Limit0.02%

Iceland 0.02% (since 2019), same as Norway and Sweden. Finland 0.05%, Germany 0.05%. One of the strictest in the world.

Min. Age (Car)17 years

Iceland allows B-licence at 17. Norway, Finland, Sweden, Germany all 18. Learner permit at 16 in Iceland.

Highway Speed90 km/h

Iceland has NO motorways. 90 km/h maximum. Norway 110, Finland 120, Sweden 120, Germany no limit*.

Licence CostISK 270–400K

~$2,000–3,000 USD. Norway NOK 25–50K, Finland €1.2–3K, Sweden SEK 15–25K, Germany €2–3.5K.

Road Deaths10/yr

~2.6 per 100K. Norway 111 (~2.0/100K), Finland 180 (~3.2/100K), Sweden 208 (~2.0/100K), Germany 2,814 (~3.4/100K).

Road deaths: Iceland 10 (Samgöngustofa 2025), Norway 111 (SSB 2025), Finland 180 (Liikenneturva 2025), Sweden 208 (Trafikanalys 2025), Germany 2,814 (Destatis 2025). Per-100K rates calculated from national population data. *Germany has no general speed limit on certain Autobahn sections. Iceland has no motorways — 90 km/h is the national maximum.

Fact-Checked

Sources & Methodology

Primary Sources

  • island.is — Government of Iceland, driving licences, official services — Government of Iceland (island.is)
  • Samgöngustofa — Transport regulation, vehicle registration, driving tests — Icelandic Transport Authority / ICETRA (samgongustofa.is)
  • Lögreglan — Traffic enforcement, DUI penalties, fine collection — Icelandic Police (logreglan.is)
  • Vegagerðin — Road conditions, F-road status, road infrastructure — Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (road.is)
  • Alþingi — Legislation, Road Traffic Act (Umferðarlög) — Icelandic Parliament (althingi.is)
  • ETSC — European road safety benchmarking and PIN programme — European Transport Safety Council (etsc.eu)

Verification Methodology

Every fact on this page has been cross-referenced against at least two authoritative sources. Our process:

  1. Primary data collected from official Samgöngustofa publications, the Road Traffic Act (Umferðarlög via althingi.is), and Lögreglan statistics
  2. Cross-verified against Vegagerðin, Statistics Iceland, and ETSC reports
  3. National regulations apply uniformly across all of Iceland — no regional variations in traffic law
  4. Page reviewed and fact-checked on {date}

If you find an error, please contact us so we can correct it immediately.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an Icelandic driving licence cost?
The total cost is ISK 270,000–400,000 (~$2,000–3,000 USD), including driving school (ISK 200,000–320,000), theory test (ISK 7,583), practical test (ISK 18,820), and licence fee (ISK 8,600). Costs vary by driving school.
What is the theory test format?
50 true/false statements. Duration: 25 minutes. Pass mark: 90% (45/50 correct). Computer-based, available in Icelandic, English, and Polish. Fee: ISK 7,583.
What are the speed limits in Iceland?
Urban: 50 km/h. Gravel roads: 80 km/h. Paved rural roads (incl. Ring Road): 90 km/h. Iceland has NO motorways — 90 km/h is the national maximum.
What is the BAC limit?
0.02% (0.2‰) — one of the strictest in the world. Lowered from 0.05% in 2019. Effectively zero tolerance. Penalties include heavy fines and licence suspension.
What are F-roads?
Highland roads requiring 4WD vehicles. Open mid-June to early October. Feature river crossings, rough gravel, and extreme isolation. Driving a 2WD on F-roads is illegal. Check road.is for current status.
Is off-road driving allowed in Iceland?
Absolutely not. Off-road driving is a criminal offence with fines up to ISK 400,000. Iceland’s fragile volcanic moss and lava terrain takes 50–100 years to recover. There is zero tolerance.
What are single-lane bridges?
Approximately 30 single-lane bridges on the Ring Road. The vehicle closer to the bridge has right of way. Slow down, check for oncoming traffic, and yield if another vehicle is already on or closer to the bridge.
Are headlights mandatory during summer?
Yes. Headlights (dipped beam) are mandatory 24/7 in Iceland, including during the midnight sun in summer. Fine: ISK 15,000.
What are the winter tyre requirements?
Winter tyres mandatory November 1 to April 15 with minimum 3mm tread. Studded tyres allowed during the same period. Fine for wrong tyres outside season: ISK 20,000 per tyre.
What is the penalty points system?
12 points in a rolling 3-year period = 3-month licence suspension. Points assigned per offence: speeding 1–3, red light 2, phone 1, DUI 4. Must retake theory test after suspension.
Can I drive with a foreign licence in Iceland?
EEA licences: valid in Iceland. Non-EEA licences: valid for 1 month after establishing residence. Tourists: IDP accepted for up to 1 year. US/Canadian licences have simplified conversion.
What is the emergency number?
112 — the unified emergency number for all services (police, fire, ambulance). Download the 112 Iceland app for automatic GPS location sharing in emergencies.
How dangerous is wind in Iceland?
Very. Wind gusts of 90–145 km/h are common, capable of pushing cars off roads and ripping doors from hinges. Check vedur.is before driving. Avoid parking with wind facing your door.
What about sheep on the roads?
Over 800,000 sheep roam freely June–September. They are unpredictable and dart across roads. If you hit one, you must find the farmer and pay compensation. Slow down in rural areas during summer.
How old do you have to be to drive in Iceland?
Car (B): 17 years. Learner permit: 16. Moped (AM): 15 years. Light motorcycle (A1): 16 years. Truck (C): 21 years.

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AutoviaTest. (2026). Iceland driving licence 2026 — The complete guide. AutoviaTest. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/iceland/facts

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"Iceland Driving Licence 2026 — The Complete Guide." AutoviaTest, 2026, autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/iceland/facts.

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AutoviaTest. "Iceland Driving Licence 2026 — The Complete Guide." AutoviaTest. Accessed March 27, 2026. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/iceland/facts.

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Pawan Priyadarshi, Founder & Chief Engineer

AutoviaTest

Last updated: March 27, 2026Reviewed by AutoviaTest editorial team

Data sourced from island.is, Samgöngustofa (samgongustofa.is), Lögreglan (logreglan.is), and Vegagerðin (road.is).

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