If you intend to drive in Iceland, it’s important you know the Iceland speed limits. Iceland is a country with many natural wonders, but the best way to explore Iceland’s natural beauty is by car. Driving in Iceland can indeed be an exhilarating experience. It’s also an easy way to access remote areas of the country that are inaccessible by public transportation.
However, driving in Iceland requires some more precautions compared to driving in other countries. We are quite sure you likely have a few questions that need answered. Some of those questions are addressed in our essential guide to driving in Iceland. Others, will be addressed later in this article.
The Icelandic road system is unique and drivers must be aware of both on-road and off-road conditions. The roads can be narrow, winding and sometimes unpaved; so drivers must be careful not to speed or drive too fast for the conditions.
Why is it important to obey Iceland speed limits?
Iceland is a country with one of the highest rates of car accidents per capita. It is then important that people understand the risks they take when they drive there.
The first thing drivers should know is that Iceland speed limits are much lower than they are in other countries. This is because the country wants to increase safety and not have any accidents. They also hope to reduce air pollution and be more ecologically aware.
What is the speed limit in Iceland?
Know that there are different types of roads in Iceland. And depending on the road, The Iceland speed limit varies. In built-up areas, the speed limit is 50 km/h.
On open roads the speed limit varies too; on gravel roads the speed limit is 80 km/h, on asphalt roads the speed limit is 90 km/h.
The Iceland ring road speed limit is 90 km/h, but some parts are graveled and the spend limit will be lower.
These Iceland speed limits are the legal maximum, but depending on driving conditions, you may wish to drive slower. Whether it’s because of the weather, gravel flying up off the road, or animals in your path; choose the right speed for the condition and take your time.
How are speed limits controlled in Iceland?
Speeding in Iceland is controlled through two main measures; speed cameras and speed bumps.
Speed Cameras in Iceland
Are there speed cameras in Iceland?
Speed cameras are all over Iceland to catch drivers breaking the speed limit. Even in remote, rural parts of Iceland, you will find speed cameras.
Luckily, there are plenty of traffic signs around to remind you at which speed you should be driving. Some signs are digital and will measure your speed as you pass by. The digital screen will display your speed, and if you’re under the limit you’ll be rewarded with a smiley face.
What do speed cameras in Iceland look like?
Speed cameras in Iceland look like gray rectangles, with lenses on them. The speed cameras in Iceland are pole mounted at the side of the road.
How much are speeding fines in Iceland?
Speeding fines in Iceland are very expensive. They can range anywhere from $200 to $700.
How do I pay my speeding fine in Iceland?
If you get a speeding ticket in Iceland, you have a few options when it comes to paying.
If you get pulled over by the police, you have two options:
Pay the fine upfront and receive a 25% discount off the fine. Icelandic police have card readers in their vans, so you can pay with either your Debit or Credit card.
Wait to receive your ticket in the post and pay the fine with no discount.
When you get your speeding ticket in the post, make sure to pay it quickly because you’ll pay 25% less than waiting. If you wait until after this deadline, you’ll have to pay the full amount.
Speed Bumps in Iceland
There are many speed bumps in Iceland. Speed bumps are used to slow down cars
and provide a safer driving environment.
A study done by the University of Iceland found that there is an average of one speed bump every 20 meters in the country.
The average height for these speed bumps is about 12 inches, but some are as high as 36 inches.
Floating Crosswalks
Isafjordur, a fishing town in northwest Iceland, has experimented with a new method of traffic safety and speed control. It is known as a floating crosswalk!
The floating crosswalk was thought up by town environmental commissioner Ralf Trylla. This new breed of crosswalk appears to be floating up and off the road, which encourages drivers to slow down and notice what's around them. The crosswalk isn’t really floating, of course, it’s just a painted optical illusion.
The floating crosswalk is not the usual method of tackling speeding in Iceland, but it’s definitely the most inventive!
Slow Speed Limits, Maximum Relaxation
Iceland has some of the lowest speed limits in the world. The low speed limit is not just about safety, it's about quality of life. It's about being able to enjoy the view from your car, or being able to have a conversation with your passenger without shouting over the noise of the engine. Take your time and enjoy the ride!