Greece is a country that offers breathtaking landscapes, from its rugged mountains to its picturesque islands. While public transportation is widely available, renting a car and driving in Greece can provide unparalleled freedom to explore hidden gems at your own pace. However, before hitting the road, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local driving laws and regulations to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about driving in Greece.
1. International Driving Permits (IDP)
If you’re visiting Greece as a tourist, you can drive using your home country’s driver’s license as long as it’s valid and written in the Latin alphabet. However, if your license isn’t in English or Greek, you may be required to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original license.
- EU Citizens: If you’re from an EU member state, your national driving license is sufficient.
- Non-EU Citizens: Check whether your country has a reciprocal agreement with Greece. If not, obtaining an IDP is highly recommended to avoid fines or complications.
2. Minimum Age Requirements
The minimum age for driving in Greece is 18 years old , but there are additional restrictions for renting a vehicle:
- Car Rentals: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old . Drivers under 25 may incur a “young driver surcharge.”
- Motorcycles and Scooters: You must be at least 18 years old to ride motorcycles up to 125cc. For larger bikes, the minimum age is typically 24 years old .
Ensure you have the appropriate license category for the type of vehicle you plan to drive.
3. Speed Limits
Speed limits in Greece are strictly enforced, and exceeding them can result in hefty fines. The limits vary depending on the type of road:
- Urban Areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
- Suburban Roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
- Highways/Motorways: 130 km/h (81 mph)
Always pay attention to posted signs, as speed limits may differ based on weather conditions or specific road hazards.
4. Seat Belts and Child Safety
Seat belt use is mandatory for all passengers in both front and rear seats. Failure to comply can result in fines for the driver.
- Child Restraints: Children under 10 years old or shorter than 1.35 meters (4’5”) must use an approved child seat or booster cushion suitable for their height and weight. Rental agencies often provide child seats upon request, but it’s wise to reserve one in advance.
5. Alcohol and Drug Laws
Greece has strict laws regarding drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is:
- 0.05% for most drivers.
- Zero tolerance (0%) for novice drivers (under 2 years of holding a license) and professional drivers (e.g., truck or bus operators).
Penalties for drunk driving include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment for repeat offenders. It’s always best to designate a sober driver or use public transport after consuming alcohol.
6. Mobile Phones and Distracted Driving
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in Greece. If you need to make calls or use GPS navigation, hands-free devices or mounts are required. Violations can lead to fines and penalty points on your license.
7. Road Signs and Traffic Rules
Understanding Greek road signs and traffic rules is crucial for safe driving:
- Priority Rules: Vehicles coming from the right generally have priority unless otherwise indicated by signs.
- Roundabouts: Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way.
- Toll Roads: Many highways in Greece are toll roads. Payment methods include cash, credit cards, and electronic tags (like the “e-pass”). Ensure you carry small change for toll booths.
Additionally, be prepared for narrow roads, especially in rural areas and on islands. Always yield to livestock, cyclists, and pedestrians.
