Before you hit the road in Finland, you need to brush up on the local driving laws and customs. The country’s roads are well-maintained, and traffic is generally light, but there are some essential considerations before you set out on your journey. Familiarising yourself with the driving rules in Finland will help ensure your drive is enjoyable and safe.
Driving requirements in Finland
Make sure to gather these essentials before you start driving in Finland:
- Documentation: Always carry your valid driver's licence and current passport. Your vehicle's registration is also necessary as proof of insurance.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to drive.
- Headlights: It is mandatory to use headlights at all times, regardless of weather conditions or time of day.
- Snow tyres: From November to April, your vehicle must be equipped with snow tyres, preferably studded, to navigate snowy roads safely.
Rules of the road
Adhering to the driving rules in Finland will ensure a safe journey in Finland. A few considerations to keep in mind are as follows:
- Driving Side and Overtaking: Finland follows the right-hand driving system that is common in most European countries and North America.
- Distance Measurements: All distance measurements in Finland are given in kilometres. (1 kilometre equals approximately 0.6 miles)
- Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is a must for all passengers. Children under 3 years old or shorter than 135 cm must be secured in a proper child safety seat that is tailored to their size.
- Flashing High Beams: If an oncoming vehicle flashes high beams, it could mean they are alerting you to an accident or hazard ahead, such as animals on the road. It is a cue to proceed with extra caution.
- Alcohol and Drug Regulations: Finland enforces a strict alcohol limit of 0.05 grams per litre. The penalties for driving after using alcohol or drugs, including marijuana (THC, cannabis), methylamphetamine, and MDMA (ecstasy), are severe. These can include heavy fines, imprisonment, or even a ban from driving in Finland.
- Cyclists: Cycling is popular in Finland. They have the right of way in designated lanes in many areas. Always be vigilant and yield to cyclists to prevent accidents.
- Parking: Park in the direction of traffic and maintain a 5-metre distance from intersections or pedestrian crossings at all times. Most cities provide parking spaces with time limits, so it is advisable to purchase a parking voucher.
- Gas Stations: Gas is often referred to as petrol, and you typically need to pay inside the station after refilling your tank.
- Speed Limits: The typical speed limits are:
- 50 km/h in cities
- 80 km/h in rural areas. On highways, the speed limit is either
- 100 km/h or 120 km/h on highways during summer
- 80 km/h on highways during winter to accommodate icy and slippery road conditions.
- Emergency Situations: Dial 112 in case of any road accident or emergency to contact the police, fire services, or medical help. It is important to provide precise location details, such as street names or kilometre markers on highways, to facilitate quick assistance.
Finnish road signs and helpful phrases in Finland
Understanding Finnish road signs and key phrases is essential to driving through the roads safely.
Here are some common signs and phrases you might see:
- Huoltoasema: Petrol or gas station.
- Pysäköinti: Parking area.
- Sisääntulo:
- Uloskäynti:
- Kiertotie:
- Aja hitaasti: Drive slowly.
- Tie rakenteilla: Road under construction.
- Kunnossapitotyö: Road repairs.
- Aluerajoitus: Local speed limit, showing the speed limit specific to the area you are driving through.
- Sairaala:
- Poliisi:
- Lentokenttä:
Renting a car in Finland
Renting a car in Finland is convenient and offers flexibility for travellers. Here are the key points you should keep in mind:
- Availability: You can find rental car companies at airports and all major cities and towns. Booking in advance is advisable to avoid higher fees and ensure availability.
- Requirements: You must be at least 20 years old to rent a car, though it can vary by car category. You must have held your driving licence for at least a year. Drivers who are under the age of 25 may incur a young driver fee.
- International Visitors: Non-EU residents can rent a car using their domestic driver's licence. However, some rental companies require an IDP along with the licence, especially in cases where the licence is not in English.
- Payment: A credit card is generally required to rent a car for security deposits and other charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use my foreign driver’s licence in Finland?
Yes, for up to one year, along with an IDP.
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What should I do in case of an accident?
Call the police and report the accident immediately. You should also contact your insurance company.
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Are there any specific driving tips for winter in Finland?
Yes, always keep your headlights on, use winter tyres, and drive cautiously. Roads can be slippery.
Conclusion
Exploring Finland by car can be an adventurous journey, leaving you with wonderful memories. Before embarking on a road trip to Finland, you need to be aware of certain rules and weather conditions to make the most out of your journey.
Apart from understanding the territory, you should also take certain precautionary measures for stress-free travel. Secure travel insurance to safeguard your trip against sudden mishaps that can burden you financially. Look for travel insurance online and choose a comprehensive policy that provides coverage against accidents, theft, damage, and repair costs and covers travel disruptions.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.