There will be many car hire firms avaliable to you in Italy. Some situated in cities and others avaliable within main airports.
In order to ensure a safe journey whilst driving in Italy it would be wise to know the following information and different laws that may apply. Below is some information that you may find useful.
To ensure that you drive safely around Italy you should be aware that vehicles in Italy drive on the right hand side of the road, be especially careful when pulling out of junctions.
- Children under the age of four are not permitted, under any circumstances, to travel in a vehicle unless they have a suitable child restraint. Children between the ages of four and twelve cannot travel in the front of a vehicle unless they have a suitable child restraint.
- Dipped headlights must be used in poor daytime visibility. This applies when driving through tunnels, on motorways and dual carriageways. Motorcycles must use dipped headlights during the day at all times. Head lamp converters are compulsory.
- The minimum driving age in Italy (provided you have a full UK licence) is 18 for a car and motorcycle over 125cc.
- Horns are used throughout Italy as a way to warn other vehicles of your approach. But be aware that the use of horns is banned in built up areas.
- Any minor driving offences in Italy are normally dealt with on the spot fines.
- Always carry your driving licence. If you still have an old style green paper licence you may find that any authorities who wish to view your licence are unable to understand them. It would be a good idea to update to a photo card driving licence before travelling to Italy.
- You should also always carry your vehicle registration document (V5). If the car you are driving is not registered in your name then carry a letter from the owner giving you permission to drive the vehicle.
- Drinking and driving in Italy is frowned upon. Anything over 0.05% could land you in prison.
- Third party insurance is compulsory.
- Seat belts are compulsory for both front and rear passengers.
- Visibility vests are now used in Italy. They are to be used when and if you or any occupants of the vehicle need to walk on a motorway or dual carriageway. They are compulsory and if you are caught not wearing one you could be fined.
- Warning triangles are compulsory. First aid kits are advised.
Fuel.
All grades of unleaded petrol, diesel, LPG and lead substitute additive are available in Italy. Between the hours of 12pm – 3pm you may find that the only pumps that are open are automatic pumps.