Thinking about renting a car in Iceland or Norway? This side-by-side comparison covers driving rules, speed limits, costs, and everything you need to make the right choice.
| Category | Iceland | Norway |
|---|---|---|
| Speed Limits | urban: 50, rural: 90, motorway: 90, note: Gravel roads typically 80 km/h. No motorways exist. F-roads (highland) require 4WD and have no set limit but conditions enforce slow speeds. | urban: 50, rural: 80, motorway: 110, note: Some motorway sections allow 110; most are 90-100. Residential areas often 30 km/h. |
| Drive Side | Right | Right |
| Minimum Driving Age | 18 | 18 |
| Toll Roads | Varies | Varies |
Read our complete car rental guide for Iceland for detailed driving rules, toll information, and rental tips.
Read our complete car rental guide for Norway for detailed driving rules, toll information, and rental tips.
Find the best deals in both Iceland and Norway.
Car rental prices vary by season and location. Generally, countries with more rental competition tend to have lower base rates. Compare prices for your specific dates using a comparison tool, and factor in fuel costs, tolls, and insurance requirements which differ between Iceland and Norway.
Most major rental companies allow cross-border travel between Iceland and Norway with prior notification, though a cross-border fee typically applies. Check your rental agreement and insurance coverage carefully — some policies have geographic restrictions or require additional cross-border insurance.
Road quality varies within both countries. Major highways and motorways are generally well-maintained in both Iceland and Norway, while rural and mountain roads may differ significantly. Check current road conditions before your trip, especially in winter when snow and ice can affect mountain passes.
Basic third-party liability insurance is required in both countries and typically included in rental agreements. However, coverage levels and excess amounts may differ. Consider purchasing Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with zero excess for peace of mind, especially if driving in both countries during one trip.
Country-by-country driving requirements, packing list, and emergency contacts — all in one PDF.
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