What are the driving rules in Finland?

Driving license:

Drivers who have valid licenses in EU as well as Nordic countries are eligible to drive in Finland using their current license. Drivers belonging to any region outside these countries will have to apply for a provisional license. These provisional licenses are valid till one year when you will have to apply for a Finnish license.

Minimum age for drivers:

Drivers must be at least 18 years of age to be able to drive in Finland. However, there are separate rules for renting cars and you have to be at least 20 year old to be able to rent a car in Finland. Few rental companies also apply extra charges on drivers who are below 25 years of age.

Speed limits:

The speed limit is 50km/hr in most of the urban areas and it is 80 km/hr on state roads as well as highways. In residential areas, the speed limit is further decreased to 20 km/hr. Drivers should always pay attention to the signaling.

Safety rules:

It is mandatory for all occupants in the vehicle to wear seatbelt. Child restraint systems are compulsory for all children. Additionally, it is necessary for all vehicles to keep their headlights turned on even during broad daylight. The use of hands- free systems is encouraged and the use of mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited.

Numbers for emergency services

Police/Fire/Ambulance Service – 112

Special requirements for driving

Drive to the right and overtake on the left.It can be dangerous to drive in winter months so keep remembering Winter/snow tyres are a legal requirement from 1 December to 3 March. It is recommended that keep your engine heaters working.

Useful Finnish terms

Hospital – Sairaala
Police – Poliisi
Police Station – Poliisiasema
Ambulance – Ambulanssi
Tie rakenteilla – Road under construction
Aluerajoitus – Local speed limit