Car
rental

Guidance & Safety Information

Driving in Iceland

Driving in Iceland is an unforgettable experience, offering access to unique landscapes and remote destinations. However, road and weather conditions can change rapidly and require extra caution. The renter is always responsible for safe vehicle operation and compliance with Icelandic traffic laws.

Manage Booking

Road & Weather Conditions

Icelandic roads range from paved highways to gravel roads and highland mountain routes. Conditions can shift rapidly.

Always check:

Adjust your speed and driving behavior to match current conditions.

Gravel Roads

Rural roads may switch from pavement to gravel without warning.

  • It is very important to reduce speed when transitioning to gravel.
  • Maintain a safe distance to avoid gravel damage from other vehicles.
  • Gravel Protection (GP) insurance may cover stone damage.

Wind Hazards

Iceland experiences sudden and extreme wind gusts.

  • Hold the door securely when opening, especially in exposed areas.
  • Park facing the wind when possible.

Damage caused by wind-blown doors is not covered by standard insurance.

F-Roads (Highland / Mountain Roads)

Highland roads are marked with an F (e.g., F35).

  • Only 4x4 vehicles authorized by Esja may drive these routes.
  • Surfaces are rough, and conditions can be unpredictable.
  • Plan your route and fuel stops in advance.
Created by Danil Polshinfrom the Noun Project

River Crossings – Be careful

Before crossing a river or a water make sure that no other route is possible! Take extra caution when crossing rivers or water as it can be dangerous and the simplest mistake can drown the car.

  • Water-related damage is not covered by insurance.
  • Full liability applies if other damages occur when river crossings are attempted.
Artboard 4Created by Gregor Cresnarfrom the Noun Project

Off-Road Driving – Illegal

Off-road driving causes irreversible environmental damage and is illegal. This is not the same as F-road driving.

  • Fines can exceed 500.000 ISK.
  • Insurance becomes void if driven off marked roads.

Speed Limits & Traffic Rules

Standard limits:

  • 50 km/h urban areas
  • 80 km/h gravel roads
  • 90 km/h paved rural roads

Additional rules:

  • Headlights must be on at all times.
  • Using handheld devices while driving is prohibited.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory use for all individuals at all times while driving

Emergency Assistance

  • Emergency services (police, fire, rescue): 112
  • 24/7 Road Assistance (All emergency car and road assistance): +354 419-2400
    info@24ra.is
  • Esja non-emergency support: esja@esjacarrental.is

By renting from Esja Car Rental, the renter agrees to follow Icelandic traffic laws and operate the vehicle responsibly.

Road Tolls & Parking in Iceland

Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel (Akureyri, North Iceland)

Iceland has very few toll roads. The only automatic toll currently in use is the Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel on Route 1 (Ring Road) near Akureyri.

  • No toll booth — payment is made online.
  • Must be paid either 3 hours before or within 24 hours after passing through the tunnel
  • This toll is the renter’s responsibility
Pay the toll here

What you need: License plate number & debit/credit card

⚠️ If toll payment is not completed in time, the toll company will add an increased fee.

Parking in Reykjavík

Reykjavík city center (101 area) uses paid parking zones. Parking is enforced during various hours and days

Common payment methods:

  • Parking ticket machines located on the street
  • Parka or EasyPark mobile apps

Parking zones are marked by color:

  • P1 (Red) — highest rate, downtown core
  • P2 (Blue)
  • P3 (Green)
  • P4 (Yellow) — least expensive / often free after hours

Parking fines issued by the city are the responsibility of the renter.

Parking at Tourist Attractions

Many attractions offer free parking, however some locations charge a fee.

Examples:

  • Þingvellir National Park — Paid parking
  • Seljalandsfoss Waterfall — Paid parking
  • Víðgelmir Lava Cave — Paid parking

Signs on-site will provide payment instructions, typically QR code or pay station.

Good to Know

For questions, contact esja@esjacarrental.is

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