Driving Age in Iceland

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and would like to explore the stunning landscapes at your own pace, a rental car is undoubtedly the best way to go. It’s the perfect way to cruise along the scenic coastal roads, visit the majestic waterfalls and venture off the beaten track, all on your schedule. 

But before you buckle up for your Icelandic road trip, there is one important question to ask - what age can you drive in Iceland? The answer depends on whether you’re a local or a visitor, as well as the kind of vehicle you want to rent. Here’s everything you need to know about the driving age in Iceland. 

What Age Can You Drive in Iceland?

For Icelandic residents, the legal driving age is 17. However, drivers must pass extensive tests to ensure they understand the rules of the road before earning their license.

If you’re visiting Iceland and planning to rent a car, the driving age requirements are a little different. The age at which you can rent a car in Iceland depends on the type of vehicle you plan to rent.

Age For Renting Small Cars

To rent a small city-friendly car, such as a Toyota Aygo or Tesla Model 3, you must be at least 20 years old and have held a valid driver’s license in your home country for at least 12 months.

Age For Renting SUVs and 4x4s

 If your itinerary includes Iceland’s rugged highland roads, you’ll need a more capable vehicle. Renting an SUV or 4x4, such as a Jeep Wrangler or Land Rover Defender requires a minimum age of 23 years.

Stuck on which vehicle to go for? Read our tips for finding the right rental car for your trip to Iceland. 

Drivers under 25 should be aware that an additional young driver surcharge will apply, regardless of the type of car you rent. While this fee is standard practice for most rental companies, you should budget it as part of your trip. 

Can I Drive in Iceland with a UK Driver’s License?

Yes, you can! Iceland accepts all driver’s licenses printed in English, including UK licenses, provided they are in date and have been valid for at least 12 months prior to your visit. 

While the UK is introducing digital driving licenses accessible via smartphones, physical licenses are still necessary for international travel, including driving in Iceland.

Licenses from other countries using the Roman alphabet, like France, Germany, or Spain, are also accepted. However, if your license is written in non-Roman characters, such as Japanese, Korean, or Chinese, you’ll need to obtain an international driving permit (IDP) before heading to Iceland.

When preparing your documents, double-check that your license includes:

• A photo of the driver
• Issue and expiry dates
• A unique driver’s license number

If your license ticks all these boxes, you’ll have no issues renting a car or driving legally in Iceland.

Understanding the driving age in Iceland is just the first step in planning your adventure. To ensure a smooth journey, take some time to familiarize yourself with Icelandic driving laws, road conditions and the road signs to stay safe.

Browse our range of rental cars and find the perfect vehicle to suit your needs. Whether you’re sticking to the cities or heading into the highlands, your Icelandic road trip awaits with Iceland Car Rental.

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