When driving in Portugal you should always remember to drive on the right hand side of the road. This may sound obvious but making an error here can lead to serious accidents. Visit our left hand drive cars section for information on the range of LHD cars we can source for you.

You must wear seatbelts at all times whether travelling in the front or back seat of a vehicle. Drivers must be at least 17 years old and anyone who has been driving for under 12 months must display a yellow badge from the Portuguese Car Club. These new drivers are limited to a maximum speed of 90 km/h.

All drivers must carry their driving license and proof of insurance at all times. It is also a requirement for every vehicle to carry a red warning triangle in case of a breakdown.

Speed Limits In Portugal

• Motorways 120 km/h / 74 mph

• Open Roads 90 km/h / 55 mph

• Urban Areas 50 km/h / 31 mph

Vehicles that are towing are limited to 100 km/h on motorways and 70 km/h on open roads. You may also find it useful to know that there is a minimum speed limit on Portuguese motorways of 40 km/h.

If you spend any time driving in Portugal you will no doubt encounter one of their many toll roads, thePortuguese word for toll is 'portagem'. You must make sure you have the cash on hand to pay a toll fee before you approach the payment point, if not you could receive a fine. Watch out for green lanes as you approach a toll road, these are for motorists who have joined an automated payment system. You cannot use these lanes unless you are a member.

Petrol stations in Portugal are generally open from 07:00 to 22:00 although some are open all the time. In Portugal they call unleaded petrol 'gasolina sin plomo' and diesel is known as 'gasóleo'. You should note that it is illegal to carry spare fuel in a container while driving in Portugal.

When driving in Portugal you should keep an eye out for trams. Their routes are not always clearly marked and they have right of way so be careful. Also if you are driving in more rural areas you should be aware of animals and carts in the road. They are often unlit so take extra care at night or during periods of poor visibility.

As a tourist you are allowed to take your car into Portugal for no more than 180 days in any 12 month period. If you want to keep a vehicle in the country for a longer period you must arrange to have it legally imported through Portuguese customs.

If you would like to learn about our left hand drive car sourcing services please contact us today.

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