Guide
Driving rules in Portugal
Portugal drives on the right, roads are generally good, and the rules are close to the rest of Western Europe, with a few differences worth knowing.
Checked 2026-11-05.
Speed limits
| Road | Limit |
|---|---|
| Towns and villages | 50 km/h, often 30 or 40 near schools and in centres |
| Ordinary roads outside towns | 90 km/h |
| Expressways (roads reserved for cars) | 100 km/h |
| Motorways (autoestrada) | 120 km/h, minimum 50 km/h |
Drivers who have held a licence for less than a year may not exceed 90 km/h anywhere. Speed cameras are common, and fines for hire cars reach you through the company, with an admin fee.
Alcohol
The limit is 0.5 g/l of blood alcohol, lower than in England and Wales. It is 0.2 g/l for drivers in their first three years (the probationary period) and for professional drivers. Police carry out roadside tests and can fine on the spot; higher readings are a crime.
Other rules
- Seat belts are compulsory in every seat.
- Children under 12 and shorter than 135 cm must use a child seat or booster suited to their size. Hire companies rent them; book in advance.
- Phones: holding one while driving is banned, including at traffic lights.
- Roundabouts: traffic already on the roundabout has priority. Use the outer lane if you are taking the next exit.
- Headlights are required in tunnels and when visibility is poor.
- Hire cars carry a warning triangle and a reflective vest. Put the vest on before you step out on a motorway.
Documents to carry
- Your driving licence and passport or ID card.
- The rental agreement and the car's papers, which are usually in the glovebox.
After an accident
- Make the scene safe: hazard lights, vest, triangle. Call 112 if anyone is hurt.
- Fill in the European accident report (Declaração Amigável) with the other driver. Hire cars carry one.
- Photograph the cars, plates, documents and the scene.
- Call the hire company's assistance number, on the agreement or the key fob, before arranging any repair or tow.