Are you a US passport holder? Planning on heading over to the land of the Vikings soon? And are you planning on road-tripping around the island? Then one of your biggest questions will probably be: Can you drive in Iceland with a US license?
We answer this exact question and much more in this article, including all information regarding various license validity, general age restrictions, as well as key info about rental cars and insurance. So, if you’re planning on getting behind the wheel in Iceland soon, read on!
Is My US Driver’s License Valid in Iceland?
The short answer is “Yes!” A US driver’s license is valid in Iceland as long as it conforms to the following:
- It’s written in an understandable language (which is essentially either English or a language that uses the Roman alphabet, so no symbols such as Arabic or Chinese).
- The license is valid, and you’ve had it for at least a year.
- It’s the real deal. In other words, you should be able to show your actual license, not a photo on your phone or a photocopy.
- Ironically, though, a valid driver’s license won’t necessarily get you behind the wheel of a rental car here in Iceland. You’ll also need to adhere to certain age restrictions (but more on this a little later).
As an added perk, you’ll probably feel right at home when driving in Iceland, since we drive on the right side of the road with the driver's seat sitting on the left.
Do I Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
No, most US travelers to Iceland will not need an IDP (International Driving Permit) as long as:
- Your license adheres to the aforementioned requirements.
- You’ll only be visiting Iceland (we can’t speak on the validity of your license in other countries you may be planning on visiting during your trip).
- You’re missing info on your license (for whatever weird reason). This can include key info such as an expiration date or a photo (how else are we supposed to double-check your identity?)
- You’re a proper prepper. In other words, you don’t like leaving things to chance and are the type who has a backup plan for their backup plan. Then having an IDP will probably give you the peace of mind you need.
As an important side note, an IDP should not be confused with a standalone license. An IDP should always be shown alongside your actual “real-life” license. So, don’t leave the latter behind, thinking you’ve got a “new” license!
When an IDP is a Must
As we already mentioned, there are numerous requirements as to whether you will or won’t need an IDP, but, as a rule of thumb, any license using strange characters or symbols in its language will require an IDP. This is simply because no one will be able to read/understand your license and therefore verify it as valid here in Iceland. Luckily, this tends not to be the case with those visiting from the US.
How to Get an IDP Before Your Trip
Whether you truly need one or just want to have one for some additional peace of mind, getting your IDP is a pretty easy process. All you need to do is complete a simple online form, which requires key info as well as uploading essential documents (such as your actual driver’s license, of course), pay your application fee, and voila!
Just keep in mind that you’ll need to allocate enough time for the process (so not the night before your trip!) because, while you may receive digital confirmation fairly quickly, shipping the hard copy original to you may take some time. Something important to take note of is that you’ll find various online platforms offering IDPs like this.
But when it comes to the US, there’s one snag: the US Government only recognizes IDPs done via AAA. So, if you want to avoid any potential hassles along the way, then keep things as official as possible and use the AAA IDP link to get your International Driving Permit for Iceland.
License Requirements for Renting a Car in Iceland
Now that you’ve got the license out of the way, the next step will be renting a car. As we already touched on, rental car requirements are based on your age and the type of vehicle you’d like to rent.
Although renting a standard 2-wheel drive can be pretty straightforward at all rental agents, requirements for larger vehicles can vary slightly between different rental agents. However, the following is more or less what you can expect:
- Standard 2-wheel drive vehicles: age requirement of 20 with a driver’s license that’s been valid for at least one year.
- 4x4s and other larger vehicles (SUVs, Minivans, etc.): age requirement of between 20 and 25 years (depending on the rental agent) with a driver’s license that’s been valid for at least one year.
- Campervans and motorhomes: Same as 4x4s and other larger vehicles, but some rentals may be a bit more picky when it comes to their larger or more luxurious vehicles, upping the age requirement to 25+.
*As a side note, we do not have a “max” age limit, so adventure’s yours to have till whatever age you no longer have a driver’s license.
**Some rental agents may charge an additional risk fee for younger drivers, so please inquire beforehand to ensure you get the best deal possible. Do know that at Cars Iceland, we do not charge any additional fee for young drivers!
Validity Conditions for US and Other Non-EEA Licenses
We’ve already gone through the requirements of a valid driver’s license, but in short, if you check all these boxes, you’ll be okay:
- Valid license.
- Has been valid for at least a year.
- Must be in English or a language using the Roman alphabet.
- All info must be clearly displayed (name, expiration date, photo, etc.).
- Must be the OG license.
What Documents Do You Need to Rent a Car in Iceland?
Of course, renting a car in Iceland is not just as simple as flashing your driver’s license and driving off the lot. There’s some paperwork involved, and you’ll need a few other important documents. These are:
- Your passport.
- Your credit card (please ensure you have one that works with a chip and PIN) with SUFFICIENT funds for not just the rental, but also the hold.
- An IDP (if you’re one of the unlucky few who need one).
*Although mandatory rental insurance is included in your rental package, some rental agents may also require you to have and show proof of your travel insurance, so ensure you have this handy just in case.
We cannot stress enough how crucial it is for you to have all the required documentation. If just one thing is missing, you won’t be allowed to drive the rental car off the lot, and your Icelandic road trip would’ve ended before it even began.
What Type of Vehicle Can You Drive in Iceland with a US License?
A US driver’s license will pretty much get you through the door of any rental vehicle here in Iceland (as long as you’re the right age, of course). The various makes and models of the available rental cars will all depend on the rental agent you choose, but these are a few standard examples, and we also give you a few insights as to which to choose:
Economy Cars and 2WD Vehicles
These vehicles work best for:
- Smaller parties (for example, solo travelers and couples).
- Those working on tighter budgets (these tend to be the most affordable options).
- Those who travel light (these cars usually have minimal storage space).
- Road trips on our main roads, which are paved and well-maintained (these vehicles are not built to take on rugged terrain and certainly do not have the ground clearance for it). Examples would be our city streets and road trip routes such as the Golden Circle and the Ring Road.
A few examples of the economy cars and 2WD vehicles you’ll find here in Iceland:
- Toyota Aygo
- Kia Rio
- Toyota Yaris
- Opel Corsa
- Kia Cee’d
- Kia XCeed
- Tesla Model 3
- Tesla Model Y
SUVs and 4x4s
These vehicles work best for:
- Larger parties (for example, families and groups of friends).
- Those working with larger budgets (these vehicles are pricier – in both rental fees and gas).
- Those who like to pack everything and the kitchen sink (these vehicles notoriously have more storage space).
- Road trips that take on the “roads less traveled.” This means you’re planning on visiting our countryside and other more remote regions. Please note that if your road trip route includes F-roads, driving a 4x4 will be a legal requirement. We would also recommend a 4x4 if you’re planning on doing the rounds in the north during the winter months (even on our paved main roads). So, for example, the Diamond Circle or the Ring Road.
A few examples of the economy cars and 2WD vehicles you’ll find here in Iceland:
- Dacia Duster
- Suzuki Vitara
- Dacia Bigster
- Jeep Renegade
- Suzuki Jimny
- Kia Sportage
- Toyota RAV 4
- BMX X1
- Nissan X-Trail
- Kia Sorento
- Toyota Land Cruiser
Minivans and Luxury Vehicles
There’s a good reason why we did not include these under the general 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive categories. Minivans may work great for larger parties, but they tend to be Front Wheel Drive with little clearance to spare (so not ideal for taking on more rugged terrain).
When it comes to our luxury rentals, you may find many that are 4-wheel drive. However, these are so high-end that you’ll not only be paying through the roof in rental fees but also in insurance! Just thinking about what a scratch to a Land Rover Defender could mean gives our bank accounts chills.
Campervans and Weight Restrictions
Most campervans fall into Category B, which means that anyone with a regular driver’s license will be able to rent and drive one. It’s only when campervans/motorhomes exceed 3500 kilograms that they fall under C1, which will require additional knowledge and skill (and the official licensing to prove it).
This is why we’ll always recommend that you have a chat with your rental agent beforehand (and most certainly before making an official booking) to ensure that everything’s in order. Also, ask about a few other campervan know-how essentials (especially if this will be your first time renting a campervan), whether it’s a 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive, facilities included, the gas (petrol or diesel), and so forth.
Driving Regulations and Legal Risks
Since driving in Iceland may not be what you’re used to back home, the following could prove to be very helpful:
Traffic Laws, Speed Limits, and Fines
While some of our laws may be similar to those in the US, others may not be. Here’s what you need to know:
- You need to adhere to the speed limits, and although we do have signs clearly stipulating area speed limits, it always helps to know what to expect before entering an area:
- Speed limits on our paved rural roads (such as the Ring Road) are 90 km/h.
- Speed limits on our gravel roads are 80 km/h (but with the understanding that you’ll lower your speed even further when conditions dictate).
- Speed limits on our urban roads are 50 km/h.
- Your headlights need to be on whenever you’re driving here in Iceland (irrespective of whether it’s night or day).
- Seatbelts need to be worn by ALL inside the vehicle from the moment the car starts to move.
- We have a lot of free-roaming animals here in Iceland, ranging from sheep to reindeer and our elusive Arctic Fox. Although we often do have warning signs where they tend to be found most often, there’s always the chance of a sudden road crossing, so keep your eyes open!
- We have one-lane bridges here in Iceland. The rule of thumb is that whoever reaches the bridge first gets to cross first.
- Our drinking limit while driving is practically non-existent (0.05%!). So, just live on the premise that it’s absolutely 0 and drink nothing, because our zero tolerance for driving under the influence will not pan out well for you here when caught.
- It is illegal to DIY your own roads (even in a 4x4) or park and camp where it’s not clearly marked and designated parking or camping spots. This is not just for your own safety, but also to protect our sensitive ecosystem.
- We really do not take kindly to those who don’t adhere to our rules of the road, and, if caught, you’re practically guaranteed such a heavy fine (if not more serious consequences) that you’ll probably have to leave the island immediately to remortgage your home. So, err on the side of caution and don’t take chances here!
What Happens If You Drive Without a Valid License?
In short: don’t even think about it! If caught, you’ll face a very hefty fine, and if anything should happen (like an accident), your insurance will be absolutely null and void!
For any emergencies (from a breakdown to an accident), we recommend keeping all essential documents in the glove compartment, since one can get pretty confused and forgetful under the stress of these situations. These include your license, your passport, your insurance (both for the rental vehicle as well as your personal travel insurance), and your rental agreement.
Tips for Driving in Iceland as a US Citizen
If this will be your first time driving in Iceland as a US citizen, the following tips and advice will be helpful:
Winter Driving and Tire Requirements
Winter in a country called Iceland is not for the faint of heart. You’ll need to be prepared for all sorts of conditions, which will definitely include ice and snow as well as possible blizzards and winds reaching more than 35 kilometers an hour (seriously; these bad boys have been known to rip car doors straight off their hinges)!
If you’re planning on visiting us during the winter season, please ensure that you’re not a nervous driver, you rent a 4x4 (just for the additional safety and peace of mind), and your vehicle has all the proper winter gear and accessories (such as winter tires). It’s also worth noting that winter tires are a legal requirement in Iceland from November to April.
Although your rental agent will most likely have taken care of this for you, it’s always worth double-checking. Winter is also not the time to try out your advanced driving skills; always keep to a slow and steady pace, and avoid any rapid braking. You can also ensure you stay one step ahead of conditions by keeping an eye on the weather via Vedur and the road conditions via Umferdin.
Insurance Tips and What to Watch For
We already mentioned that certain mandatory insurance will be included in your rental package. However, depending on the season you’ll be visiting and the routes you’ll be taking, you might want to think about a few add-on insurance policies, such as Gravel Protection, Sand and Ash Protection, Windscreen Protection, and so forth.
Please discuss with your rental agent before driving off the lot. Remember to do thorough check-out and check-in inspections of the vehicle. We understand that you’re super excited to hit the road, or you may be scared you'll miss a flight, but you don’t want to be blamed (and have to pay!) for damage that had nothing to do with you.
FAQs About Driving in Iceland with a US License
Below are the answers to a few frequently asked questions about driving in Iceland with a US license:
What is the Official Driving Age in Iceland?
Unfortunately, the official driving age in Iceland is not what you’re used to back home in the US. While driving ages vary between 16 and 18 in the US, depending on the state, the driving age in Iceland is 20. This means that even if you have a valid driver’s license, but you’re under 20, you won’t be allowed to drive in Iceland.
Can I Drive in Iceland with My US Driver’s License?
Yes, as long as you're of Icelandic driving age (20), your license is in English or another language that uses the Roman alphabet, and your license is currently valid and has also been valid for at least a year.
Do I Need an International Driving Permit If I Have a US Driver’s License?
Generally, no, since most US driver’s licenses adhere to all license requirements here in Iceland. However, some prefer to have one (just in case), and we can’t speak on behalf of the rest of the countries you’ll be visiting throughout your trip.
Can I Rent a Car in Iceland If I’m Under 25?
Yes, you will definitely be able to rent a standard 2-wheel drive if you’re under 25. Requirements for larger vehicles differ slightly between rental agents, especially when it comes to certain makes and models, so do your due diligence beforehand. Also, discuss whether there are any additional charges for being a younger driver.
Can I Rent a Campervan with My US License?
Yes. The same rules and requirements for rental vehicles apply to campervans. It’s only once a rental vehicle exceeds 3500 kilograms that you’ll need another category driving license.
Will I Be Able to Get Assistance in English From My Rental Agency in Iceland?
Absolutely! Rental agents are well aware that they’re catering to the international market, and ensure that they only have personnel who understand and speak English fluently.
Can I Use a Digital Copy or Photo of My License?
No. Although places such as the rental agent will make a copy of your license, you’ll still need the original.
Plan Your Trip with Confidence: Rent Your Car Today!
Now that you know whether you can drive in Iceland with a US License, you know all the ins and outs of an International Driving Permit, Iceland’s rental requirements and rules of the road, you’re ready to rent your car in Iceland and officially embark on your adventure through the Land of Fire and Ice.
Just remember to have a proper chat with your rental agent about your routes and your own personal preferences and requirements, so they can assist in providing you with the vehicle (and insurance!) that will suit your trip best. So, on that note, we hope to see you soon!
