Portugal Car Rental and Driving Information

Driving in Portugal

Portugal lagged behind other countries in Western Europe in developing a national highway system, and as a result superhighways are more limited. A four-line highway, or 'auto estrada,' runs about 360mi/590km from Lisbon to Porto. Two-lane highways of good quality connect the rest of the country.

Rules of the Road in Portugal

Traffic travels on the right. In traffic circles, vehicles inside the circle have the right of way. While driving in Portugal you must yield to disembarking tram passengers.

Speed Limits & Gas Stations in Portugal  City: 35mph/56kph Open Roads: 55mph/88kph Highways: 75mph/120kph Gas Station Availability - Gas stations are open from 7am to 10pm and many stations located on the highway are open 24 hours.

Parking & Tolls in Portugal Toll highways in Portugal need to be paid electronically. You can purchase an electronic device called Via Verde from your car rental supplier. You can also sign up for EasyToll, purchase a Tollcard, or a Tollservice pre-paid ticket at Oporto and Faro’s airports. 'Blue zone' parking exists in many Portuguese towns. You can obtain a cardboard disc, free of charge, from either the police or local motor club offices. Central Lisbon offers very little on-street parking.

Tips for Driving in Portugal

Portugal is truly a wondrous place to visit, and touring this beautiful and culturally rich nation by car gives you the freedom to explore - not just the tourist hotspots, either, but also the hidden gems. Behind the wheel, you will be your own tour guide. And unlike those travelers who are stuck on a tour bus, you will be free to follow your muse and experience the real Portugal, however you see fit.

When Tailgated, Keep Your Cool Bumper riding or tailgating is a bit more common in Portugal than elsewhere. Just keep your cool. Don't drive faster than you are comfortable traveling. The tailgater will take the first opportunity to pass, so just give them room.	Don't Pass on the Right When Driving in Portugal Portugal has strict regulations against passing on the right. You can be fined more than 1,000 Euros for doing so. If you find yourself in a situation where you must pass, be sure to do so on the left.
Signal, But Don't Expect It From the Driver in Front of You The Portuguese are not big on the use of turn signals. By all means, use your own, but don't be surprised if the car ahead of you signals left before making an abrupt right turn.	Hang Up the Phone Before You Drive The Portuguese do not tolerate conversing on a mobile device while operating a vehicle. The fine? 600 Euros. Better pull off to the side and park, instead.

Driving Laws in Portugal

If you're going to be driving in Portugal, getting to know the country's driving laws is definitely a smart idea. Here, we'll talk about the rules and regulations you'll need to obey, including many of Portugal's driving laws, if you want to avoid landing yourself in legal trouble. You may want to study up on road signs in Portugal so you're familiar before you begin driving in the country.

• Children under 12 years of age may not sit in the front seat of the car unless they are at least 150cm (59") tall.

• Booster seats are required for children riding in the back seat up to age 12.

• When driving in Portugal, seat belts are required by law. Failure to fasten safety belts may result in a hefty ticket, not to mention serious injury in case of an accident.

• Fluorescent vests and road triangles must be carried in the vehicle, to be used in the event of engine trouble. Fortunately, all car rentals in Portugal include this gear at no extra charge.

• Wearing sunglasses while driving though tunnels is illegal in Portugal.

• Insurance and other related documents must be kept in the vehicle at all times.

• Vehicles must not be parked opposite the flow of traffic.

• On roundabouts, stay in the center lane until you find your exit. Then, carefully merge to the outside lane directly before exiting.

• Traffic citations are subject to immediate payment, so have a payment method on hand when driving in Portugal, just in case.