Top Safety Tips for First-Time Drivers on Iceland’s Roads

Your friendly guide to a safe and unforgettable self-drive adventure across Iceland

Iceland’s raw beauty is best experienced on the road — through winding mountain passes, beneath dancing northern lights, and along black sand beaches. For first-time visitors choosing a self-drive journey, the freedom is exhilarating. But it’s essential to understand the island’s unique driving conditions and road culture before setting off.

Whether you’re picking up your rental car from Keflavík International Airport or planning a road trip from Reykjavík, this guide from Höldur, your reliable and eco-conscious car rental provider since 1966, offers essential safety advice tailored to international visitors.

Why Iceland’s Roads Are Different – And Magical

Driving in Iceland isn’t like driving in London, New York, or even mainland Europe. The roads invite adventure — but they also demand respect. Conditions can change rapidly, and remote areas require preparation and care.

Here’s what makes Iceland’s roads unique:

• Narrow rural roads and gravel tracks (F-roads)

• Sudden weather shifts, from sunshine to snow in minutes

• One-lane bridges and blind summits

• Wild winds, sandstorms, and strong gusts that can damage car doors

• Limited mobile signal in highland areas

• Sheep — yes, sheep — roaming freely across roads

With the right preparation, driving in Iceland can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

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1. Choose the Right Rental Car for the Season

Start your journey on the right foot by selecting a vehicle suited to your itinerary and the time of year. Höldur offers a wide range of reliable rental cars in Iceland, including 4x4s for highland travel and compact models for urban exploring.

Top tip:
If you’re planning to visit in winter (October to April) or explore gravel roads, opt for a 4x4 vehicle. Höldur’s eco-friendly, well-maintained fleet ensures safety and comfort, no matter the route.

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2. Understand Iceland’s Road Signs and Rules

Many signs are in Icelandic, but symbols are universal. Watch for:

Einbreið brú – One-lane bridge

Malbik endar – Paved road ends

Blindhæð – Blind hill or summit

Ófært – Impassable road

Speed limits vary:

• 90 km/h on paved rural roads

• 80 km/h on gravel roads

• 50 km/h in urban areas

Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and daytime headlights must be on at all times — even in summer.

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3. Take Extra Caution on One-Lane Bridges

Iceland has over 700 one-lane bridges, especially along the Ring Road. The first vehicle to reach the bridge has the right of way, but always proceed cautiously.

Safety tip:
Slow down well before approaching the bridge. Wait patiently and make eye contact with other drivers to avoid misunderstandings.

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4. Prepare for Rapid Weather Changes

Weather can turn in the blink of an eye. What begins as a sunny morning can end in gale-force winds or icy rain.

Before every drive, check:

• vedur.is – Iceland’s national weather forecast

• road.is – Up-to-date road conditions and closures

Höldur’s team at Reykjavík and Keflavík Airport rental desks are also on hand to offer local driving advice and real-time route updates.

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5. Stay Safe on Gravel and F-Roads

Gravel roads can be slippery, especially for those unfamiliar with loose surfaces. F-roads, which lead into Iceland’s interior highlands, are only open in summer and require a 4x4 vehicle.

Tips for gravel driving:

• Drive slowly (no more than 80 km/h)

• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns

• Watch for flying stones – Höldur offers optional gravel protection insurance

Note: Höldur does not allow 2WD cars on F-roads due to safety risks.

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6. Guard Against Wind Damage

Iceland is known for its powerful winds. Tourists unfamiliar with these gusts often suffer unexpected damage — especially when opening car doors.

Tip from the locals:
Hold onto your car door tightly when exiting. Open it slowly and park facing the wind when possible.

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7. Don’t Stop in the Middle of the Road for Photos

Yes, Iceland’s landscapes are breathtaking. But stopping suddenly on a narrow road for a photo is dangerous and illegal.

Instead, use designated lay-bys or pullouts. Höldur’s road-ready travel guides suggest scenic, safe stopping points throughout your itinerary.

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8. Be Mindful of Wildlife and Sheep

Free-roaming sheep are part of the charm — and the challenge — of driving in Iceland. They often wander onto roads without warning.

Stay alert, especially on rural stretches in summer. Slow down if you see a sheep on one side; it’s likely there’s another about to cross.

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9. Fuel Up and Stay Connected

Petrol stations can be sparse in the countryside. Always top up the tank before heading into remote areas, and carry a paper map as a backup if phone signal is lost.

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10. Ask for Local Advice

At Höldur, we don’t just hand you the keys — we equip you with confidence. Our team is always ready with local tips, road updates, and destination suggestions.

Whether you’re renting a car in Reykjavík or collecting your vehicle at Keflavík Airport, you’ll receive friendly guidance to get your journey off to a safe, smooth start.

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FAQs – First-Time Driving in Iceland

Do I need a 4x4 to drive in Iceland?

Only if you’re planning to travel on F-roads or during winter. For most of the Ring Road, a 2WD is sufficient in summer.

Can I use my UK or US driving licence in Iceland?

Yes. If your licence is in Latin script and valid, there’s no need for an International Driving Permit.

Are Iceland’s roads dangerous?

Not inherently — but they do require caution, especially with weather, gravel roads, and one-lane bridges.

Can I drive in Iceland in winter?

Absolutely, but ensure your vehicle has studded winter tyres and check weather and road conditions regularly.

How expensive is petrol in Iceland?

It can be pricier than in mainland Europe. Expect to pay around 280–320 ISK per litre. Plan fuel stops in advance.

Are car rentals in Keflavík Airport open late?

Yes. Höldur’s Keflavík Airport office aligns with most international flight arrivals, offering convenient pick-up and drop-off times.

Is there roadside assistance in Iceland?

Yes. Höldur provides 24/7 emergency assistance nationwide, including in remote areas.

Do I need insurance for gravel roads?

It’s highly recommended. Gravel protection covers common chips and dents from loose stones.

Is GPS included in rental cars?

Our vehicles include built-in navigation systems, but map quality can vary. For a smoother journey through Iceland’s stunning landscapes, we recommend a Garmin device with detailed Iceland maps. It’s available as an add-on when you book online with us.

 

When you book with Holdur Car Rental you´ll get:

• Our Basic Protection Package. This includes third-party loss.
• Collision damage waiver (CDW)
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
• The option to upgrade your vehicle cover
• -5 ISK Fuel Discount off every liter at N1 gas stations
• Studded Winter Tyres during the snowy season at no additional cost
• Flexible cancellation, with a 100% up to 48 hours prior to pick-up

Plan Your Iceland Road Trip Today

Exploring Iceland by car is an experience like no other. To make the most of your trip, choose a rental vehicle that aligns with your driving skills, travel plans, and preferences. Höldur offers a diverse selection of manual and automatic rental cars, from budget-friendly options to 4x4 SUVs tailored for Iceland’s rugged landscapes.

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