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Expat Exchange - Getting a Driver's License in Iceland
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Getting a Driver's License in Iceland

By Betsy Burlingame

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: Here's a primer on how to get your driver's license in Iceland.

Drivers License Iceland - Getting a Driver's License in Iceland

Sometimes when you're new to a country a task like getting your driver's license can make you feel like you're 16 years old again trying to pass your driver's test. Here's an overview of the process of getting your driver's license in Iceland.

In Iceland, foreigners are allowed to drive if they have a valid driving license from their home country or an international driving permit. The license must be in Latin characters or accompanied by an official translation if it's not. The driver must be at least 17 years old to drive a car and 18 years old to drive a motorcycle. It's also important to note that in Iceland, driving is on the right-hand side of the road.

There are no specific requirements that differ based on the city, state, or region in Iceland. However, it's crucial to be aware of the different driving conditions that can occur in various parts of the country. For instance, driving in rural areas may involve gravel roads and single-lane bridges, while driving in winter can be challenging due to snow and ice. Therefore, it's recommended to check the road conditions and weather forecast before setting off, especially if you plan to drive outside of Reykjavik or during the winter months.

Additionally, it's mandatory to have third-party liability insurance when driving in Iceland. Rental cars usually come with this insurance, but if you're bringing your own vehicle, you'll need to make sure you have the appropriate coverage.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

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