5 Essential Tips for Driving in Italy
5 Essential Tips for Driving in Italy
One of the greatest challenges when traveling to a new country can be finding transportation that works on your terms. In Italy, one of the most effective ways to get around is by car. While the minimum age to rent a car is technically 21, some rental companies allow drivers as young as 18 to rent from them as long as they have held their license for longer than 1 year. Any driver under the age of 25 should be prepared to pay a young driver's surcharge (€15-€22 per day).
Once you have your car situation sorted out, here are 5 vital tips to make sure that your journey through bel paese is as hassle free as possible.
Carry the Essential Documents In Your Glove Compartment
You'll want to make sure you have a valid EU driving license, a valid passport, a national ID card, proof of insurance, and a V5C (official registration certificate). Also, absolutely ensure that you have a sticker stating where your country of origin is along with your International driver's license and rental documents.
Mind The Speed Limits
The speed limits in Italy depend on the weather conditions, so if it's a sunny day then the maximum speed limit on the motorway is 80 mph. However, in the case of adverse weather conditions such as rain, wind or snow, then the maximum motorway speed comes down to 70 mph. Devices called “Autovelox” that look like big boxes on the side of the road with a camera will take a photo of your license plate if you are speeding and send you a ticket within a few months, so keep an eye out! If you're planning a camping holiday, a caravan or a trailer addition to your vehicle will warrant slower speed limits overall.
Fasten Your Seatbelt
The standard rules apply for both drivers and passengers, however in the case of pregnant women. it's possible that they can skip the seatbelt (with a letter from the gynecologist stating it is advised).
Stow Your Mobile Phone
If you’ve been keeping up with our blog, you’ll remember our article, MOBILE PHONE PROHIBITION, which explained France’s push to crack down on mobile phone usage in automobiles. Italy has a very similar policy as talking on the phone while driving is forbidden in Italy (with the exception of Bluetooth and hands-free modes). Emergency phones, which can be found at regular 2km intervals on the motorway can be used to contact police by dialing 113, 115 for fire, or 118 for ambulance.
Lay Off The Booze
If you’re looking to spend a night out with alcohol involved, it may be best to take a taxi home, especially for drivers who have been driving for less than 3 years, in which the alcohol limit is 0%.
We hope you've enjoyed our 5 Essential Tips for Driving in Italy! Care to make your drive even easier? Having linguistic and cultural fluency is one of the best ways to experience a new country. Click below to find out how our native instructors and culturally immersive classes can enrich your understanding of Italy!