Europe is one of the world's best road trip continents — well-maintained roads, dramatic landscapes and cultural variety within easy driving distance. But rules vary between countries, and ignorance isn't a defence against a fine. Here's what you need to know.
Documents you must carry
- Driving licence — your full national licence. EU licences are valid across the EU. Non-EU visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for some countries.
- Hire car rental agreement — always carry it; you'll be asked for it at borders and by police
- Insurance certificate/green card — your hire company should provide this
- Passport or ID — required at all times in most European countries
Country-specific rules
France:
- Carry a breathalyser kit (legally required, though rarely enforced)
- Speed cameras are fixed and average-speed — no tolerance for speeding
- Vignette (road tax sticker) required for motorways in some adjacent countries when crossing borders
- Paris has a Crit'Air sticker requirement for driving in the city
Italy:
- ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) zones in city centres — cameras automatically fine unauthorised vehicles. Do not drive into historic centres.
- Headlights must be on outside urban areas at all times
- Vignette required on Austrian motorways when crossing the border
Germany:
- The Autobahn has no general speed limit on some sections — but advisory limits exist and temporary limits are common
- Many cities have environmental zones (Umweltzone) requiring a green sticker — most hire cars have these
Spain:
- Motorways (autopistas) have tolls, especially in Catalonia and along the east coast
- Mobile phone use is strictly enforced
Alcohol limits: Most European countries have a limit of 0.5mg/ml (lower than the UK's 0.8mg/ml). Some, including the Czech Republic and Slovakia, are zero tolerance. The safest rule: if you're driving, don't drink.
Equipment requirements
Some countries require you to carry specific equipment in the vehicle:
- Warning triangle — required in most of Europe
- Reflective vest — required in France, Spain, Italy, Austria and others
- First aid kit — required in Austria, Croatia, Slovenia and others
- Fire extinguisher — required in some countries
Most hire cars from reputable suppliers will already have these. Confirm before you collect.
Speed limits quick reference
- Motorways: 120–130 km/h across most of Europe (130 in France and Spain, 140 in Poland)
- Dual carriageways: typically 100–110 km/h
- Urban areas: 50 km/h standard; 30 km/h in residential zones
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