Driving in Greece
Before you pick up your car hire in Greece, it is worth noting some of the rules and regulations about driving in Greece.
Driving license requirements in Greece
Visitors may drive using their national license, provided it is in a language that uses the Roman alphabet.
Holders of other licenses generally must also show an International Driving Permit in English (available through motoring organisations such as AA, AAA, RAC, etc.) All other driving licenses are acceptable.
The authorities require that you carry your drivers license with you at all times.
Age requirements for driving in Greece
Car hire companies in Greece employ age restrictions, which can vary across companies. Please check your quotation for exact restrictions, as there may be an extra fee for drivers below the minimum age or over the maximum age.
Speed Limits on roads in Greece:
| Motorway | 120 km/h |
| Open road | 110 km/h |
| In town and villages | 50 km/h |
Tips for driving your hire car in Greece
- Drive on the right. Don't obstruct fast lanes.
- Car accident rates are high in Greece
- Be aware of what's happening around you. Adapt to local conditions.
- In Greece, the driver and front seat passenger must wear seat belts
- Greece requires children to wear seat belts even in the back seats.
- Special child seats are required for babies and young children.
- Radar detectors are illegal.
- Do not argue with police. Be polite, be patient.
- Drinking and driving incurs heavy fines or prison sentences in Greece.
Fuel types available in Greece
- Unleaded Petroleum (gasoline)
- Diesel
- Check carefully before filling whether your rental car uses petrol or diesel. If you make a mistake do not start the vehicle as severe damage may result and you will be liable for repair costs. Inform service station staff who will assist in arranging for the tank to be drained and refilled with the correct fuel
- Gas stations are generally open during office hours. Times vary particularly in rural areas.
- At many gas stations you may have to swipe your credit card at the pump before filling up your rental car. Most credit cards are accepted for fuel payment.
Parking in Greece
It is best to use designated 'off street' car parks as strict laws apply for street parking. If you do park on the street
- Always park on the right, your car must not face the traffic
- Do not park in front of yellow or red road lines or within 3 meters of a fire hydrant
- Do not park within 15 meters of a bus stop
- No parking signs should always be obeyed as clamping and on-the-spot fines are common in major towns and cities
- Severe penalties may be incurred for dangerous parking
- The police can remove your licence plates if you owe a motoring offence fine.
