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Driving in Italy vs Portugal: Key Differences Explained

When exploring the roads of Italy and Portugal, understanding the nuances of their traffic regulations is essential for a secure journey. Key distinctions include speed limits, lane markings, and alcohol thresholds. While Italy allows overtaking on multi-lane roads, Portugal prohibits it. Familiarizing yourself with these variations will enhance your driving experience in both countries.

Lanes

Markings: Solid Yellow Line
italy:
Not commonly used; occasionally as edge line.
portugal:
Marks the left edge on divided roads.
Markings: Dashed Yellow Line
italy:
Not used for lane separation; may indicate temporary diversions.
portugal:
Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe.
Overtaking: On Right
italy:
Allowed on multi-lane roads or when the vehicle ahead is turning left.
portugal:
Prohibited.
Bus Lanes: Usage
italy:
Reserved for buses and sometimes taxis.
portugal:
Reserved for buses and taxis.
Bus Lanes: Markings
italy:
Labeled 'BUS' or 'BUS ONLY'; often with road signs.
portugal:
Labeled 'BUS'; often with road signs.

Speeds Limits

Highways: Cars And Motorcycles
italy:
130 km/h
portugal:
120 km/h
Highways: Trucks And Trailers
italy:
80 km/h
portugal:
90 km/h
Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines
italy:
Rare; fines are usually mailed after citation
portugal:
Possible

Signals

Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together
italy:
Used; prepare to go when green appears
portugal:
Not used in Portugal
Traffic Signs: Language
italy:
Italian; symbols are standard
portugal:
Portuguese; symbols are standard
Traffic Signs: Warning
italy:
Triangle-shaped with a red border
portugal:
Triangular-shaped with white background and red border

Turns

Right Turn On Red
italy:
Not allowed unless indicated by a sign
portugal:
Prohibited
U- Turns Allowed
italy:
Varies by locality; check for signs
portugal:
Allowed at intersections unless signs prohibit

Documentation

Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A
italy:
Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended
portugal:
Accepted; no additional permit required
Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U
italy:
Accepted with International Driving Permit
portugal:
International Driving Permit recommended; national license accepted for short visits
Vehicle Inspection: Requirement
italy:
Mandatory for vehicles over four years old
portugal:
Periodic inspections required; proof may be required
Vehicle Inspection: Sticker
italy:
Displayed on license plate
portugal:
Displayed on the windshield

Alcohol

Limits: Professional Drivers
italy:
0.00%
portugal:
0.02%
Limits: Underage Drivers
italy:
0.00%
portugal:
0.02%
Enforcement: Random Checks
italy:
Common; checkpoints used frequently
portugal:
Common, especially during holidays
Enforcement: Fines
italy:
Substantial
portugal:
Varies; can be substantial

Emergency Services

Contact: Traffic Police
italy:
113 (State Police)
portugal:
Contact local authorities
Contact: Roadside Assistance
italy:
116 (ACI)
portugal:
Check with your insurance provider or ACP

Penalties And Fines

Common Fines: Speeding
italy:
Varies; significant fines, possible license suspension
portugal:
Varies; €60 to €2,500, points on license
Common Fines: Seat Belts
italy:
Varies; fines apply
portugal:
€120 to €600
Common Fines: Phone Use
italy:
Fines apply, strict enforcement
portugal:
€240 to €1,200
Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation
italy:
Fines apply, may include points on license
portugal:
€120 to €600
Payment: On The Spot
italy:
Possible, especially for foreign drivers
portugal:
Possible
Payment: Deadline
italy:
Varies; typically a set period to pay, often 60 days
portugal:
Varies; typically 30 days to pay