Driving Tips in Lisbon, Portugal

Car Hire Depot information in Lisbon

DriveAway Holidays offer unbeatable rates and a wide range of vehicles with our suppliers in Lisbon. The suppliers are conveniently located at the Lisbon Portela Airport terminal and downtown depots located in the city. Lisbon Portela Airport is located just 9 kilometres from the city centre, approximately 15 minutes drive.

Car Hire Driving Distances from Lisbon

• Faro – 280 kms (2 hrs/ 40 mins)
• Porto – 320 kms (3 hrs)
• Lagos – 300 kms (2 hr/ 50 mins)
• Loures – 20 kms (25 mins)
• Sintra – 30 kms (35 mins)
• Vinhos – 380 kms (3 hrs/ 50 mins)
• Sesimbra – 40 kms (45 mins)
• Seville, Spain – 460 kms (4 hrs/ 40 mins)

Driving Licence

A full valid driver’s license is required for a minimum of 2 years. An International licence is required for Australian drivers licence holders.

Age Restrictions

Generally the minimum age is 21 years, but can vary between the car hire company and location. Maximum age limits apply in some locations, a young/senior driver surcharge may apply. Please check Terms and Conditions when making an enquiry or booking.

Rules and Regulations

General driving rules and regulations in Portugal;

• Driving is on the right hand side of the road.
• Overtake is on the left hand side of the road.
• It is illegal to use headphones or earphones while driving.
• Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, with the exception of a hands free system.
• Seat belts are mandatory and must be worn by all passengers and driver.
• Radar detectors are banned.
• Spare light bulbs must be readily available at all times.
• Motorcyclists are not permitted to carry passengers under the age of 7 years old.
• When driving through tunnels dipped headlights must be used.
• Drivers are to carry at all times while driving, a valid drivers licence, registration documents and insurance documents.

Equipment

The following equipment are required to be carried in the vehicle and which are to be used in the event of an incident, accident or breakdown.

• Warning Triangle; to be used at the event of an accident or breakdown to warn following traffic.
• Reflective Vest; to be used when getting out of the car at an event of an accident or breakdown on any road.

Child Safety Seats

Passengers under the age of 12 years old must only be seated in the back seats of the vehicle, if suitable a proper child seat should be used as well.

Speed Limits

Speeding fines and any other traffic infringement must be paid on the spot which aren't cheap. Be sure to follow the speed limits advised to avoid any sort of mishap. Below are the speed limits in Portugal, unless signed otherwise;

• Urban Areas (built up areas): 50km/h
• Rural Roads (outside towns: 50-90km/h
• Motorways: 100-120km/h

Drink Driving

The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) in Portugal is 0.05mg/ml. Those found over the limit face very heavy fines or imprisonment.

Tolls

A toll fee is payable on most motorways in Portugal. Fee's are determined on distance travelled, drivers are to collect a ticket upon entry onto the motorway then present the ticket at a toll booth when exiting the motorway, where a fee can be calculated.

Road Signs

Road signs in Portugal are very similar to the signs used in other European countries but with some differences. Signs will be shown in the countries local language, however English is also used on most major signs. Signs with symbols are used the most in Portugal which makes it much more easier to read and understand. Warning Signs are generally triangular in shape with a red border, white background or and a black symbol or text in the middle. Prohibitory Signs are signs which motorists must follow. These signs vary in shapes from a circle, octagon and a box. You will find these signs in either blue with a white symbol in the middle and white with a red border. Information Signs are indicated with a blue or green background and white text providing motorists with information.

Parking

Parking regulations in Portugal vary depending on the time of day, day of the week and location. Be sure to check signage and markings in the area for parking restrictions. In areas marked as blue zone a parking disc will need to be obtained, discs are to be displayed on the front window of the vehicle with the arrival time. In other parking areas metered parking is used, motorists are to pay for parking at an automated ticket machine and display a ticket on the front windscreen.

Visa Information

Visa, passport and entry requirements for Australians visiting Portugal;

• Australian passport holders do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. Contact the Portugal Consulate or Embassy in your local state for additional information regarding special visa's.
• A valid passport is required with at least 6 months validity.

*Please note distances and time should only be used as a guide, and may vary according to the route taken.

Last Updated 3 June 2010