Advice for driving in Norway
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Updated:
30 December 2024
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Tips, Checklist & Legal Requirements
Driving is a great way to explore Norway. Oslo is surrounded by a network of motorways (up to 90 km/h) and open roads are usually dual- lane separated by a yellow line. It's a good idea to calculate 1 minute for 1 kilometer on average for long distances.Trams have priority, and unless it´s a one way street you must overtake them on the right. When approaching a roundabout give way to traffic already on the roundabout, on your left, unless signed otherwise.
Essentials
If you are looking to drive in Norway then you you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid UK driving licence, insurance and vehicle documents.
Driver's checklist:
- · Valid driving licence
- · Proof of identification (passport)
- · Insurance documents (third part or above)
- · Proof of ownership (registration certificate)
If you do not own the vehicle you are driving, you are advised to obtain written permission from the registered owner.
Driver safety
Driving in Norway is considered safe. In 2011 there were 3.4 road deaths per 100,000 of the population in Norway, compared to the UK average of 3.1 per 100,000. If you are driving long distances then care should be taken to plan your journey and to take regular breaks. Enjoy the magnificient views and please don’t become a statistic for the sake of a break.
Legal Requirements
Seat belts are required for all passengers, whether in the front or back seat of the vehicle. Children under 4 years old must use an appropiate child seat.
Kit You Need to Carry On Board
It is compulsory in Norway to carry the following safety equipment within any vehicle with more than 2 wheels:
- · A Warning triangle
- · Reflective Jacket
- · Headlamp converters
- · Spare bulb kit is recommended
Speed Limits
Standard speed limits (km/h) unless otherwise stated by traffic signs:
Urban roads (31 mph).
Non-urban roads (50 mph).
Motorways / expressways (62 mph).
Towing
Urban roads (31 mph).
Non-urban roads (50 mph).
Motorways / expressways (50 mph).
In-car radar detectors are illegal whether they are in use or not and on-the-spot fines are issued for the infringement of minor traffic regulations being really heavy for speeding.
Alcohol Consumption
Norway has stricter drink driving laws than many other countries. The legal limit is 0.20 milligrams of alcohol per millimitre of blood, being 0.8 in the UK.
Motorcycles
On motorcycle, both driver and passenger must wear a helmet.
Headlights
The use of dipped headlights is compulsory at all times.
Mobile Phones While Driving
Only 'hands free' mobile telephones can be used whilst driving.
Driving in Winter
During winter most secondary routes are closed, and Winter tyres are mandatory from November to April. They are not mandatory the rest of the year but the vehicle must always be equipped according weather conditions.
General Driving Advice
So to recap here is our checklist for driving in Norway:
- Ensure you have proper documentation: valid driving licence, ID, driving insurance covering driving in Norway, proof of ownership (registration certification).
- Take plenty of breaks when driving long distances.
- Ensure all passengers are wearing seat belts and remember children 4 and under are not allowed to travel without an approved child seat or restraint.
- Ensure your car is equipped with the following safety equipment: A Warning triangle, Reflective Jacket and Headlamp converters. Winter tyres are also advisable especially if travelling in Autumm or Winter.
- Check fuel compatibility as some fuels may not be compatible with your vehicle.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Observe local speed limits – as a general rule built up areas have limits of 50km/h (31 mph), outside built up areas are 80km/h (50mph) and motorways 90 km/h (56 mph). In car radar detectors are illegal.
- Dipped headlights are compulsory even during the day.
Driving from Norway to another destination? You might like to read our guides to:
Need breakdown cover for Norway? Eurobreakdown.com can provide you with comprehensive single trip breakdown cover or annual multi trip breakdown policies with a best price guarantee.
Reference: The statistics mentioned on this page were sourced from the International Transport Forum’s Road Safety Annual Report 2013 and, to the best of Eurobreakdown.com’s knowledge, are correct at the time of publication (May 2014).
For general European driving tips click here