Driving in ItalyEssential Information: Part One

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Driving in ItalyDriving in Italy is almost compulsory if you are planning to stay anywhere outside of a big city. And driving here is far more complicated than it used to be. Where once independence was the rule of the road, Italy now has highly enforced speeding and road regulations. As an American, this may seem especially intimidating, but it doesn’t have to! Here are some of the Italian rules of the road so that you can navigate the countryside safely and headache free.

Rules of the RoadFirst off, it's important to know that many of the basic rules of the road are the same.You drive on the same side of the road as in America, stop at stop signs, and must wear a seatbelt. However, Italia is more serious about enforcement. Here are some of the things to note:

Rules of the Road

Passing LanesThe left lane is for passing. Hogging this lane or going too slowly there could get you fined and will certainly garner the derision of the Italians sharing the road with you.

Cell PhonesAs in many states in America, cell phone use is restricted to hands-free devices. This obviously means no texting as well.

Rules of the Road

HeadlightsYou are required to have your headlights on at all times, though you can dim them somewhat when they are less necessary.

SpeedingThere are cameras and sensors everywhere along the highway, often hidden, though signs will announce their general presence. They won't usually ticket you for going 10 kilometers per hour over or less, but if you are going 160 kph (about 99 mph), chances are there will be a fine in your future. 130 kph (just over 80mph) is the general limit on highways, but this is subject to conditions, roadwork, and curves in the road. Playing it safe and not speeding is always your best bet.

The Autostrade

What is the Autostrade?The Autostrade is the system of privatized toll highways in Italy. Autostrade roads are marked by green signs, which are all labeled "A" followed by the specific road number.

What about other roads? Blue signs (super strade) indicate smaller highways and roads that have lower speed limits and pass through towns. Thus, they are more scenic, but if time is an issue, stick with the autostrade. Black and white signs indicate city centers, airports, and stadiums.

The Autostrade

Other Basics• Kilometers are marked.• Signs warn you well ahead

of construction and ensure that you are safely guided clear.

• Exits and towns are marked clearly.

• Bridges and tunnels are named and their clearance indicated.

The Autostrade

Other Basics • Electronic signs warn of

traffic congestion or weather, and include visual cues for those who may not be able to read the warnings.

• Rest areas dot the Autostrade every dozen miles or so, offering gas, restrooms, and snack food. Some have restaurants, which will be indicated with a knife and spoon sign.

The Autostrade

TollsOf course, the Autostrade charges a toll for using it. However, unlike most places in the U.S., the Autostrade accepts credit cards as well as cash, so you don't have to bother exchanging a bunch of money at the airport.

As you get onto the Autostrade, there will be a bunch of ticket booths you can't miss. Go for the ones marked BIGLIETTO (ticket) and avoid the ones labeled TELEPASS. The latter are similar to electronic toll systems like E-ZPass and FasTrak in the United States, and you have to be signed up to use them.

The Autostrade

Tolls

Once you grab a ticket, you can drive to your desired exit, where you will pay before getting off the highway. Get into the CARTE lane for credit card payment, or the lane showing bills and coins for cash. Again, avoid the TELEPASS lane. Also, many of the Autostrade roads are considered to be connected, so you don't always have to pay when switching between them.

International Driver’s Permit (IDP)

What is an IDP? An International Driver's Permit is not actually an awarded license, as you don't have to pass a test to obtain it. It is merely a translation of your current license for the purposes of identification – specifically, identification of the class of vehicles you are allowed to drive, as your passport is much more relied upon for personal details.

International Driver’s Permit (IDP)

Do I Actually Need One? When you rent a car, the agency will often just ask to see your passport, current driver's license, reservation, and your credit card; some of them require an IDP, many don’t. It tends to be more important to have the IDP in countries that use different characters in their language (Chinese, Arabic , Cyrillic, Greek, etc.). However, the government recommends that you get one, so there are obviously different opinions on the subject.

International Driver’s Permit (IDP)

Do I Actually Need One? Truthfully, many police in Italy will only ask for your license, passport, and rental agreement if they pull you over. Parker Villas has even talked to several law enforcement officers who all claimed to be unaware of any IDP laws. However, they can technically fine you for not having an IDP, and have been shown to be rather sporadic in their enforcement. In essence, if you want to play it safe, get an IDP.

Driving in Italy

These are just some of the things you need to know about driving in Italy. At Parker Villas, we want to ensure that whether you are staying at one of our luxury villas in Tuscany or one of our hillside apartments on the Amalfi Coast, you have a wonderful, worry-free time. Call us today at 1-800-280-2811 for more information about your trip!