REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND – August 28, 2026 — Iceland has some of the world’s most idyllic roads, offering breathtaking scenery and easy access to the country’s famous landmarks. However, road conditions can be challenging, making it important to understand the essentials of safe driving in Iceland. Hertz Iceland, a car rental company in Iceland, has launched a new website and companion app featuring essential road safety tips for visitors, helping drivers navigate Iceland’s roads safely and confidently.
Hertz Iceland’s travel website and app provide practical guidance for navigating Iceland’s roads, including real-time weather and road conditions, essential emergency contacts, and advice on what to do in the event of an incident, alongside a wealth of other useful information.
Understanding Driving Conditions in Iceland
Driving in Iceland offers an unforgettable way to explore the country, but driving conditions in Iceland can change quickly depending on the season, weather and location. Roads range from paved routes to gravel and mountain roads, while wind, rain, snow and ice can create challenging conditions. Drivers should check the latest road and weather conditions before setting out and adapt their speed and route as needed.
Extra care is essential in winter and on rural roads. Staying alert, allowing extra time and following local road signs and safety advice will help visitors safely drive in Iceland and enjoy a safer, more comfortable journey.
Essential Safe Driving Recommendations
Understanding the road rules in Iceland is essential for safe driving. Speed limits range from 30–50 km/h in urban areas and up to 80–90 km/h on rural roads. Headlights and seatbelts are required at all times, while drivers should take extra care on narrow, slippery roads and around roundabouts and sheep. Turning right on a red light is also illegal.
One of the most important driving rules in Iceland is that off-road driving is strictly prohibited to protect the country’s fragile landscape. Drivers should use designated stopping areas, never stop on the road to view the Northern Lights, and take extra care during winter when road conditions can change quickly.
How to Take Care of Your Rental Car in Iceland
Before setting out, drivers should familiarise themselves with their rental vehicle in Iceland, including the controls, dashboard and mirrors. Icelandic law requires headlights to be on 24 hours a day, so drivers should ensure they are switched on before starting their journey.
Knowing how to refuel or charge the vehicle is also important when driving in Iceland. Drivers should always check whether the car uses petrol or diesel and plan ahead for fuel stops or EV charging, particularly when travelling in more remote areas.
Essential Iceland Road Safety Tips in Your Pocket
Hertz Iceland’s Safe Drive Iceland app puts essential information at travellers’ fingertips, wherever their journey takes them. The app provides users with up-to-the-minute road status and weather conditions across Iceland, helping drivers stay informed and prepared while on the road.
The app also features guidance on road conditions, fuel stations and EV charging, F-Road information, emergency contacts and support, and everything travellers need to safely drive in Iceland. The Safe Drive Iceland app is available to download for free from the App Store and Google Play Store.
For all essential road safety tips in Iceland, visit the Safe Drive Iceland website.
About Hertz Iceland
Hertz Iceland is a leading car rental company in Iceland, with 2026 marking its 55th year of operations in the country. Backed by decades of expertise in Iceland’s unique driving conditions, it offers a wide range of vehicles for travellers exploring the island, from economical city cars to rugged 4×4 Land Rovers. With extensive local knowledge, Hertz Iceland provides seamless access to high-quality vehicles suited to Iceland’s terrain and ever-changing weather conditions.
