Norway Driving Rules: What to Know Before You Go

Planning on traveling the country soon? Well, then it’s probably a good idea to get the lowdown on Norway’s driving rules. You definitely want to be on the right side of the law, not just on the road, during your motorhome road trip.

That’s why we compiled this guide, so you can easily stay up to date with all the must-dos (or don'ts) when it comes to the roads here in Norway. So, before you head on the road trip of a lifetime, make yourself aware of the following:

Driving License in Norway: The Requirements

General requirements for any rental vehicle under 3500 kilograms (in other words, your standard Class B) are that you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license that you’ve had for at least 12 months.

You will find that most campervans and a few motorhomes also fall under Class B, but the moment you exceed that 3500-kilogram weight limit and you move toward a monstrous RV, you’re gonna need a different type of license (C1). If you’re planning on renting a motorhome in Norway, you’ll also find that many rental agents have an age limit of 25.

This heavily depends on the rental agent, so please have the discussion beforehand. You’ll also be glad to know that you won’t need an International Drivers Permit (IDP) if your license doesn’t contain a photo of you and is not in Roman letters (in other words, the English alphabet that’s easily read and understood internationally).

Driving in Norway: An Overview

Norway is a go-to for motorhome road trips since it boasts 18 scenic routes filled with breathtaking views, natural wonders, and all sorts of interesting stops along the way. Most of the main roads and routes are paved and well-maintained, but if you’re planning on traveling our more remote regions, you need to be prepared for a few gravel and narrow mountain roads.

You also need to keep in mind that our roads are heavily impacted by the weather. So, keep an eye on the weather forecast so you’re always one step ahead of potentially tricky road conditions or sudden road closures. This is especially true for our colder months, especially winter. You’ll be dealing with weather elements such as ice and snow, as well as annual road closures, which include famous routes such as Trollstigen (The Troll’s Ladder).

During our colder months, mandatory gear and accessories also apply, such as snow tires. These are usually included in your rental package, but it’s always a good idea to check with your rental agent. To understand what you’re reading on your map a bit better, the following should help:

• E-roads are international highways that not only connect major cities in Norway, but also cities across Europe. These roads have green road signs with the letter ‘E’ on them if you find them along the road. On the map, they’re marked with the prefix ‘E.’

• Riksvei roads are our main national roads, linking destinations within Norway itself. Their road signs have an ‘R’ on them, and on maps, they have a characteristic Rv prefix.

• Fylkesveie roads are our country roads. They are found in the countryside, connecting smaller towns with one another. Their prefix is Fv.

Driving in Norway Rules

Understanding our roads is one thing; understanding our traffic rules in Norway is quite another. Here’s a quick overview:

• Remember the following: the right is right. It’s an easy way to remember that driving on the right side of the road is the correct side to drive on here in Norway.

• Ensure that everyone (driver and all passengers) is wearing seatbelts whenever the vehicle is in motion – even in a motorhome! There are still visitors who think it’s okay to stand up and stretch their legs or even have a little lie down while the motorhome is moving.

• Headlights must always be on while a vehicle is in motion in Norway (irrespective of whether it’s night or day).

• Ensure you stick to the speed limits in Norway. Although you’ll find clearly marked road signs indicating speed limits along the road, it’s always better to be on the offense than the defense, so remember the following:

• In residential areas (where people live and there are schools), the speed limit is 30 km/h.

• In urban areas (so cities and towns in general, but specifically non-residential areas), the speed limit is 50 km/h.

• In rural areas (where you’re often dealing with gravel roads), the speed limit is 80 km/h.

• On our main roads (dual carriageways and motorways, or what others may call highways), the speed limit is between 90 and 110 km/h (this is very road-specific).

• Using your mobile phone (or any other device for that matter) while driving is a major no-no. This not only puts your own life and the lives of your passengers in jeopardy, but also the rest of the people on the road.

Drinking Laws in Norway

Norway has a blood alcohol limit of 0.02%, which technically means that even 1 drink can push you over the limit. So, are you really going to risk it? Penalties for drinking and driving in Norway are severe with long-lasting consequences.

Toll Roads in Norway

Unfortunately, toll roads are a part of your driving reality here in Norway. Although the tolls are more of an annoying expense rather than a breaking-the-bank type of expense, you can look at it as the price you pay for a well-maintained road and the privilege of its breathtaking views.

With a rental, you’ll need to discuss the rental agent's policy and procedure regarding toll payments. Some leave it for your own account from day dot, others will pay it on your behalf, and then you need to pay the rental company back.

Either way, you’ll find that most rental vehicles have already been registered with either AutoPASS or EPASS24 (both essentially allocate tolls by recognizing the vehicle and its license plate or picking up on the tag attached to the vehicle. However, AutoPASS is a definite favorite because of the discounted rates it offers.

Electric Cars in Norway

Norway has always taken sustainability very seriously. That’s why you’ll find plenty of electric vehicles on the roads here in Norway. That’s also why we have adequate infrastructure for the number of EV vehicles on the roads.

You can find charging stations everywhere, from gas stations and stores to hotels and government buildings! You’ll also see that you often have a choice between regular chargers and fast chargers, so remember to double-check to ensure you use the right one.

You’re Ready to Hit the Road!

Armed with the knowledge found in this guide and the desire not to be on the receiving end of some pretty hefty fines and penalties, you’re now ready to hit the road! Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions about your upcoming motorhome road trip through the country or if you’d just like to book your motorhome rental in Norway well in advance to avoid disappointment.