How to Avoid Speeding Tickets in Iceland

Hiring a car is a great way to travel around Iceland independently; it gives you the freedom to explore on your own terms and at your own pace. However, rules and regulations for driving vary from one country to another, therefore it’s important to know the rules so you can be safe and avoid fines when driving in Iceland.

There are a lot of rules on Iceland’s roads, though most of them are obvious. Below are a few helpful highlights of Iceland’s simplest driving laws.

• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Overtake on the left.
• Always wear your seatbelt, this is mandatory for drivers and all passengers.
• Headlights are mandatory at all hours of the day.
• Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is strictly prohibited.
• Do not exceed the speed limit.
• Using cell phones while driving is prohibited.

Speeding is a frequent issue for visitors to Iceland, and the fines for such violations can be steep. This article will prove helpful if you want to avoid getting speeding tickets on your visit to Iceland.

What are the speed limits in Iceland?

Speed limits in Iceland vary according to the type of road you are on, so it is important you check signs when driving and keep within speed limits. As a general guide, the speed limits in Iceland are as follows:

• Populated areas: 30-50km/h (18-30 mph)
• Paved rural roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
• Rural gravel roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)

Extra caution should be taken on gravel roads as the loose surface can mean your tires have less traction.

Speeding Cameras in Iceland

The location of speed cameras in Iceland can vary. Some are located by the roadside, but others may be mounted in parked patrol vehicles on the side of the road. Many fixed, permanent speed cameras are located in the south of the island and other areas where there is a smaller police presence. It’s best to stay within speed limits even when there are no patrol cars around, as they are in place for your safety as well as the safety of others.

What do you do if you get a speeding ticket in Iceland?

There are two main ways you get a speeding ticket; you either get pulled over on the road and given a ticket on the spot, or you get a ticket delivered to you by mail. In both instances, your options are limited - see below.

If you get pulled over, these are your 3 options

• pay later once you get the ticket in the mail with no discount
• don’t pay, dispute and face possible repercussions
• pay immediately and receive a discount

If you get a ticket in the mail you have 2 options.

• don’t pay, dispute and face repercussions
• pay (paying within a given time limit grants a discount)

In this instance, it’s important to realize that postal tickets will come to your rental car company. We will contact you regarding the fine and we will also charge a processing fee for having to handle the issue on your behalf. You’ll have to pay this on top of the price of the ticket. Car rental companies are required by law to give the authorities your details if you receive a speeding ticket whilst driving their cars. For this and so many other reasons, it’s easiest and safest if you simply stick to speed limits and general driving laws in Iceland.

It is important to note that the automatic speed surveillance cameras are not always correct; therefore, it would be wise to ask for proof before you pay your ticket. You shouldn’t have to pay your fine if they do not have any substantial, visible proof.

How can I contest a fine?

If you are unable to avoid getting a fine, then it may be possible for you to dispute it. Although it is unlikely, errors can occur, so if you get fined, remember to check all the details before paying.

Below are common legal defenses for speeding fines:

• If significant details of the alleged speeding offense are incorrect, (ie your name, nature, time, and location) you may be able to dispute the ticket.
• You were wrongly accused.
• The driver who allegedly committed the speeding offense wasn’t driving at the time.
• If the speed measuring instrument was incorrectly used or misused.
• If the road you were caught speeding on was absent of signs notifying you of speed limits.

How much do speeding fines cost?

The cost of a speeding ticket in Iceland varies according to many factors; such as the speed you are driving and the speed limits in place. As a general guide, the fine is usually between $195- $460 USD. However, there are instances where you can be fined more than this, as laid out in the table below.

*The estimated fines in this table are accurate as of January 2025

Offence	Amount
Driving more than 26kmph over the allowed top speed in 30-35km speed zones	$286 USD
Driving more than 36kmph over the allowed top speed in 50-60km speed zones	$465-572 USD
Driving more than 41kmph over the allowed top speed in 70km speed zones	$460 USD
Driving more than 41kmph over the allowed top speed in 80-90km speed zones	$930-1,070 USD

The best way to avoid getting a speeding ticket in Iceland is always to drive safely and according to driving laws, limits, and posted signs along your route. If you are unsure then you should always stick to a slower speed.

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