In Cyprus, there is no effective public transport so using a car is the best way to get around this island.

The road traffic rules in Cyprus are:

  • Traffic moves on the left side.
  • The minimum driving age is 18.
  • All occupants of vehicles must wear seatbelts.
  • Children under 12 years and less than 1.5m must be ridden in special child seats.
  • Children under 5 must not sit in the front passenger seat. Children from 5 to 10 years may occupy the front passenger seat fitted with appropriate child seat belt.
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. Drivers may only use cell phones with hands-free device.
  • Maximum speed limits are: on highway – 100 km/h (62 mph); on country roads – 65 km/h (40 mph); in build up areas – 50 km/h (31 mph); at road works – 30 km/h (18 mph). The minimum speed on motorways: 40 mph (65 km/h).
  • Two reflective warning triangles must be in a car.
  • The maximum legal blood alcohol level is 0.049 %.
  • Vehicles driven in Cyprus must be insured for third party risks as a minimum.
  • Along a double yellow line, parking and standing are prohibited.
  • Along a single yellow line, loading and unloading is allowed but parking is prohibited.
  • Lights must be used between half an hour after sunset and half an hour before sunrise.
  • It is not permitted to carry any radar detection equipment.
  • Using of horn is prohibited between 22:00 (10 p.m.) and 06:00 (6 a.m.).
  •  It is forbidden to carry petrol in a can.
  • In winter, spiked tires and snow chains are permitted.
  • Eating and drinking while driving is not permitted.
  • Smoking in a car with a person under 16 years is prohibited.
  • The emergence phone number is 112.

Additional information:

  • Most road traffic signs conform to European Union standards.
  • As a rule, information signs are in Greek and English, but some in Turkish.
  • Distance and speed limit signs are measured in kilometers per hour (km/h).
  • There are no toll roads in Cyprus.
  • Foreign visitors can drive using a driving permit issued by any European Union country or an International driving permit.
  • While driving, foreign driver must have a driving permit, International driver license (if it is required), passport, some proof of insurance (including third party fire and liability insurance) and vehicle registration papers.
  • For renting a car, rental car companies require from drivers to be 21 years of age and a minimum of three years driving experience.


Cyprus Road Traffic Signs


 Driving Overseas - Short Information