Norway is not a country where traffic rules are viewed as friendly suggestions. To some visitors, the rules and penalties may seem a little strict, but they are reflected in some of the lowest road fatality rates in Europe.
Speed limits are enforced, drink-driving laws are strict and serious offences can have consequences far beyond your holiday. The good news is that a little patience and common sense are usually all you need for a safe and enjoyable road trip.
Keep your speed down
International drivers are overrepresented among speeding fines in Norway. Speed limits are strictly enforced, and high speed is one of the main causes of serious accidents.
Many of the most scenic roads in Helgeland, Lofoten, Vesterålen and Senja are narrow and winding, with poor visibility around bends. Slow down, enjoy the scenery and make sure you reach your destination safely.
Serious traffic offences can lead to the loss of your driving licence across the EU and EEA, not just in Norway. The most serious offences may also result in prison sentences.
call 113 for an ambulance and medical help
Stay on the right
Many roads and tunnels in Northern Norway are narrow, but that does not mean they are one-way. Keep well to the right, especially on winding coastal roads where oncoming traffic can appear suddenly around a bend.
Cyclists should also keep to the right and use lights and high-visibility clothing when passing through tunnels.
Stop only in safe places
The photo opportunities are endless, but never stop in the middle of the road or in places where you create a hazard for other road users.
If you want to take photos, find a lay-by, parking area or another safe place to stop. Make sure your vehicle is parked safely before heading off to enjoy the view.
Let others pass
Not everyone is comfortable driving on narrow and winding roads. If you prefer to drive slowly to enjoy the scenery, that is perfectly fine.
However, local drivers, buses and commercial traffic still need to get where they are going. Use passing places and lay-bys to let faster traffic pass when it is safe to do so. This reduces frustration and helps keep traffic flowing safely.
No alcohol behind the wheel
Norway has very strict drink-driving laws and a very low legal alcohol limit. If you are driving, the safest choice is simple: do not drink alcohol at all.
Wear seat belts and secure children properly
Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and passengers. Children must travel in appropriate child seats suitable for their age and size. Proper restraints save lives and are required by law.
Driving in Northern Norway in Summer
Yes. Roads in Northern Norway are generally safe and well maintained. However, many scenic coastal roads are narrow and winding, so drivers should reduce their speed and pay attention to oncoming traffic.
Speed limits vary depending on the road. In built-up areas, the limit is usually 50 km/h, while rural roads are often 80 km/h unless otherwise signposted. Always follow posted speed limits.
Yes. Norway is known for strict enforcement of traffic laws, and speeding fines can be substantial. Serious speeding offences can lead to the loss of your driving licence and, in the most severe cases, prison sentences.
No. You should only stop in designated parking areas, lay-bys or other safe places. Never stop in the road or in locations where you create a hazard for other road users.
Many local drivers, buses and commercial vehicles travel these roads every day. If you are driving slowly to enjoy the scenery, use passing places and lay-bys to let faster traffic pass when it is safe to do so.
Many roads in Lofoten, Vesterålen, Senja and along the Helgeland coast are narrow and winding. Drivers should be prepared for meeting oncoming traffic, especially in summer.
Norway has very strict drink-driving laws and a very low legal alcohol limit. If you are driving, the safest option is not to drink alcohol at all.
113 is the number for medical assistance.
Yes. Children must travel in approved child restraints appropriate for their age, height and weight. Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and passengers.
