Driving in Portugal as a Australia National

Portugal offers excellent motorways, scenic wine country roads, and straightforward driving. EU and US license holders do not need an IDP. Electronic tolls (Via Verde) require advance setup.

Key Things to Know First

No IDP Typically Required

Portugal generally accepts foreign licences for short-term visitors. Carry your original licence and passport at all times.

Drive on the Right — You Are Switching Sides

Australia drives on the left, but Portugal drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.

Tips for switching sides

Side-by-Side Comparison

Rule	Australia	Portugal	Change?
Traffic side	Left-hand traffic	Right-hand traffic	Yes
Speed unit	km/h	km/h	Same
IDP required	—	No	No
Min. driving age	17	18	Differs
Emergency number	000	112	Different
Road difficulty	Moderate	Easy	—

Speed Limits in Portugal

Urban

50 km/h

Rural / Open road

90 km/h

Highway / Motorway

120 km/h

Documents to Carry in Portugal

Original driving licence from Australia — must be valid and unexpired
Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Portugal before departure
Vehicle registration / rental agreement

Emergency Number in Portugal

112

112 is the pan-European emergency number, widely accepted across many countries worldwide.

Emergency numbers for all countries

Full Portugal Driving Guide

Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Portugal.

Read the complete guide