Driving in Italy
Advice 1
In Italy, it is required to have your daytime running lights on at all times, 24 hours a day.
Advice 2
Like many other European countries, using a mobile phone while driving is illegal in Italy.
Advice 3
Drivers are legally permitted to have a maximum of 0.5 g/l (0.05%) of alcohol in their blood. However, newly licensed drivers who have held their license for less than 3 years, young drivers under 21, and professional drivers must adhere to a stricter limit of 0.00%.
Advice 4
Drive on the right side of the road, and overtake on the left
Advice 5
The driver, as well as the passengers, need to use safety belts. Also, children younger than 12 need to be in the back seat in the proper child seat/booster.
Advice 6
Obey the speed limit:
- 130 km/h (80 mph) is the speed limit on highways in Italy.
- 110 km/h (68 mph) is the speed limit on non-major highways outside major urban areas in Italy.
- 90 km/h (56 mph) is the speed limit on local roads in Italy.
- 50 km/h (31 mph) is the speed limit in urban areas in Italy
It's important to remember that "urban areas" can often include the highway passing through a small town, particularly near exits. Watch for signs indicating reduced speed limits, even when driving on the highway.
Advice 7
Emergency numbers in Italy
In case of a serious emergency where you need assistance, dial 112 in Italy. This number is free to call without any prefix and the operator will connect you with the appropriate authority or service. For localized needs, there are specific numbers to call:
- State Police: 113 (accidents, thefts, etc.).
- Fire brigade: 115 (fires, weather emergencies).
- Urgent and emergency medical attention: 118 (health-related needs). This number is important for rescue operations in mountains or caves.
- Roadside Assistance: For emergency roadside assistance in Italy, call 803 116 from an Italian phone or 800 116 800 from a foreign mobile. The Automobile Club d’Italia can help 24/7.
- Travel information: 1518
- Sea rescue: 1530
