Regarding driving rules in mainland Portugal, compared to most European countries, in Portugal there are not many differences in driving.
The maximum speed allowed on highways is 120 Km/Hour.
The legislation on seat belts in Portugal makes it mandatory for the driver and all passengers to wear seat belts while the car is in motion.
Failure to do so will incur a fine.
The maximum alcohol level allowed in Portgual is 50mg per 100ml of blood. This means that even a single drink can push you to the limit. For this reason and in order to avoid problems, we recommend that, if you drink, you call a taxi.
You should always have your valid identification document with you, and valid driving license and all the documentation you received with the vehicle.
50 km per hour, within localities
80 km per hour, outside the localities
120 km per hour on expressways
Keep in mind that speed limits are controlled by disowned cars and unmarked radars.
To drive a car in Portugal you must be at least 18 years old, but to rent a car the minimum age is 23 or sometimes 25.
You can still rent a car under the age of 23 for a fee.
Safety camera warning devices are illegal in Portugal and, even if you are caught with one, turned on or not, it will be confiscated and you will be fined.
No child under the age of 12 may sit in the front and, when in the rear of the car, they must have a suitable restraint system that complies with EU regulations. When renting your car with us, you can request child safety seats and seats.
All rental cars are insured with protection against third parties, but we recommend an extra protection of Insurance against all risks or Deductible Zero.
Give priority to those on your right, unless otherwise indicated.
When entering a roundabout, priority should be given to those who are already there.
Whenever you stop, don't forget to turn on the turn signals.
On roads with poor lighting you should drive carefully and carefully.
Whenever you have a breakdown on the road, don't forget to turn on the four turn signals, put on your safety vest before getting out of the car and immediately place the warning triangle on the road.
Do not cross over continuous lines or in prohibited parking places.
Fines for using a mobile phone while driving are high - 600 euros in many cases. So do not use your mobile phone while driving.
It is prohibited to park less than five meters before or after an intersection.
You must not park in driveways or garages that give access to properties. If you do, your car could be towed away.
In urban centers you will find paid parking areas, using parking meters with automatic payment, in order to avoid fines, you should always pay
your parking lots.
The enforcement of parking rules is carried out by agents of the parking companies themselves. Any parking fine resulting from the rental period will be sent to your home address, so we recommend paying on time to avoid fees and other costs.
In Portugal you will find special parking spaces for people with disabilities, it is always advisable to look for the sign or ask any agent.
On Portuguese motorways there are two toll payment systems:
- Electronics – the existing gantry registers the vehicle (for later collection) or debits the identifier.
- Toll booths – the traditional ones, with an employee or, on some highways, through an automatic payment machine.
We recommend that when renting your car, you request the toll device, called "Via Verde", in order to avoid fines.
The emergency number for Portugal is the European standard 112.
If you have problems with your rental car, you should contact the PSP (Public Security Police) immediately, which is the competent authority in case of accidents by calling 112.
In the event of a breakdown, you should find a safe place to stop the car, before leaving the car, put on your safety vest and place the breakdown sign, then call the Travel Assistance number found in the Policy Safe.
Under no circumstances should you fail to call the authorities or accept friendly agreements without the presence of a police authority.