Driving in Portugal
Key road rules in Portugal you need to know
When you are hiring a car abroad, it’s useful to be prepared for the different driving laws in the country you are travelling to as well as checking the documents you need to carry.
To help make your trip to as smooth as possible, we've put together some of the key road rules in Portugal.
- These rules are to be used as a guide and are subject to change. Please check with your Avis representative if you have any questions.
- Your Avis representative can advise you on toll and road charges before leaving the Avis car hire location and whether snow tyres or chains are needed.
Take a look at our Portugal car hire page for ideas, travelling tips and booking information.
Which Side of the Road?
In Portugal, please drive on the RIGHT side of the road.
Unique Country Driving Laws
- The use of mobile phones is prohibited, however you may talk on your phone if you have a hands-free kit.
- Do not use your horn in a built-up area unless you urgently need to warn other road users of your presence.
Speed Limits
For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:
- Urban areas: 31 mph (50 km/h)
- Rural areas: 55mph (90 km/h)
- Motorways: 74 mph (120 km/h)
Unless indicated by road signs.
Child Safety / Seatbelt Laws
It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt
- Children under 12 and less than 150cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size.
Please note - It is the child’s parent / guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.
Compulsory Equipment in your Avis rental car
- Passport/photo ID
- Reflective jacket
- Spare tyre/air filling equipment for tyres
- Warning triangle
Emergency Services
- Police
- 112
- Ambulance
- 112
- Fire Department
- 112
- European Emergency Number
- 112