If you’re planning a European vacation, renting a car can be the best way to explore multiple cities, scenic villages, and hidden gems at your own pace. But before you hit the road, it’s important to know that driving in Europe comes with its own set of rules — many of which are very different from what you’re used to in the U.S.
This guide covers the essential European driving laws, safety rules, and travel tips so you can have a stress-free journey.
In most European countries, you can drive with your valid U.S. driver’s license, but many also require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
What is an IDP? It’s a document that translates your U.S. license into multiple languages.
Where to get one:
AAA or AATA offices in the U.S.
Cost: about $20
Processing time: same day in person or a few weeks by mail
Countries that almost always require an IDP:
Italy
Austria
Spain
Greece
Poland
Some Eastern European countries
Pro tip: Even if a country doesn’t officially require an IDP, it’s smart to carry one. Many rental agencies won’t release a car without it, and it helps avoid fines at police checkpoints.
Most of Europe drives on the right-hand side, just like in the U.S.
However, there are a few exceptions where you’ll need to adjust:
Drive on the left:
United Kingdom
Ireland
Malta
Cyprus
When driving on the “wrong” side for the first time:
Take a few minutes to practice in the rental lot before heading into traffic.
Be especially careful at roundabouts and intersections — these are where most mistakes happen.
Speed limits in Europe are in kilometers per hour (km/h), not miles per hour. Accidentally misreading signs can lead to expensive speeding tickets.
Road TypeTypical Speed Limit Urban / city streets 50 km/h (31 mph)Rural roads 80–90 km/h (50–56 mph)Motorways / highways 120–130 km/h (75–81 mph)
Country-specific rules:
Germany: Autobahns often have no fixed speed limit, but 130 km/h is the recommended maximum. Some stretches do have limits, and fines are very strict.
France: Speed limits drop in rainy weather — for example, motorways go from 130 → 110 km/h.
United Kingdom: Uses miles per hour (mph) like the U.S., but with different limits (30 mph in urban areas, 60 mph on rural roads, 70 mph on motorways).
Warning: Speed cameras are everywhere in Europe. Fines are often sent directly to your rental company and automatically charged to your credit card.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, front and back.
Mobile phones can only be used with a hands-free device — holding your phone even at a stoplight can result in heavy fines.
Child safety seats:
Children under 12 years old or 135 cm (4’5”) must use a car seat or booster in most countries.
Some rental companies provide these for an extra fee, but they must be reserved in advance.
Many European countries require cars to carry specific safety gear at all times. Your rental car should include these, but check before you leave the lot.
Common required items:
Reflective safety vest (for driver, sometimes for each passenger)
Warning triangle
First aid kit (mandatory in Germany, Austria, Croatia, etc.)
Spare bulb kit (required in France and some others)
Failure to carry these items can lead to on-the-spot fines during roadside checks.
In many European countries, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.05%, compared to 0.08% in most U.S. states.
CountryStandard BAC Limit Germany, France, Italy, Spain 0.05% United Kingdom (except Scotland) 0.08% Scotland 0.05% Norway, Sweden 0.02%
Some countries have zero tolerance for young or professional drivers.
Best rule: Don’t drink and drive, even a single glass of wine.
Tolls: Many highways require toll payments, usually collected at booths or electronically.
Vignettes: In countries like Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia, you must buy a vignette (toll sticker) to legally use highways.
Low Emission Zones: Cities like London, Paris, and Milan have zones where only vehicles meeting certain emissions standards can enter.
Example: Paris requires a Crit’Air sticker, which must be ordered in advance.
Tip: Ask your rental company if your car already meets these requirements.
Parking regulations are strictly enforced in most European cities:
Blue zones usually indicate paid parking areas.
Yellow or red curbs often mean no parking.
Illegal parking can lead to immediate towing or on-the-spot fines.
Many cities require you to display a parking disc or buy a ticket from a machine.
If you need roadside assistance or emergency help:
European emergency number:112 (works like 911 across the EU)
Local police numbers vary, but 112 is always a safe bet.
Book early: Rates for rental cars in Europe can rise sharply, especially during summer and holidays.
Double-check your fuel policy: Return the car with a full tank if that’s what your agreement says — refueling penalties can be steep.
Be cautious with roundabouts: Yield to traffic already inside unless signs say otherwise.
Stay alert at border crossings: Many European countries are in the Schengen Zone, so there are no hard borders, but keep your passport and rental paperwork handy.
Driving in Europe is an incredible way to experience the continent, but preparation is key. By understanding the local rules, carrying the right documents, and staying aware of speed limits and safety requirements, you can avoid fines — and focus on making unforgettable memories.
When you’re ready to book your rental, Carla makes it easy to compare prices and find the perfect car for your European adventure.
