The road and motorways of Portugal have undergone some major work over the last ten years, making driving conditions easy and undeniably safe for all motorists. Should you be considering renting a car and driving the scenic route across the country, it’s important to note that the rules of the road are the same as most European countries. All traffic circulates on the right and follows the following speed limits: 50 km/h in cities and built up areas, 90 km/h on normal roads and a respective minimum and maximum speed of 50 km/h and 120kph on major highways.

Roundabouts are a common feature on Portugal’s roads; just remember the right of way goes to vehicles already circling them. All traffic signals are in accordance with international standards and vehicles approaching from the right have priority as well.

The use of safety belts is compulsory and drivers must always carry a legal identification document, a valid driver’s license, a car registration document, proof of ownership of the vehicle and a valid insurance certificate. Please note that tolls are payable on most stretches of motorways in Portugal.
In the instance of an accident on a highway (auto-estrada) or main road, drivers should use the nearest orange-coloured SOS telephone by pressing the button and waiting a moment for a reply from the national assistance program.