Getting to know Latvia through travelling by car is growing in popularity. Motor tourists are definitely welcome in Latvia! Traffic rules in Latvia are harmonised with the regulations that are mandatory in the European Union. With your car rent in Latvia, it is important that you have looked through some of these rules and regulations about driving a car to ensure you have the safest possible journey.

Road Rules

• Drive on the right hand side of the road.
• Driving with lights on is required 24 hours a day.
• Seatbelts are required for drivers and passengers in the front seat.
• Children in the front seat under 12yrs/1.5m must use an appropriate restraint.

Car Rent Requirements

To rent a car in Latvia, you must be at least 21 years old (age may vary by car category) and have held your license for 1 year. Drivers under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. An International Drivers License is required for driving a car hire. The minimum driving age is 18

Required documents

• The driving license
• The vehicle registration certificate
• The third person liability insurance policy of the owner of the vehicle or sticker
• The document ( sticker) confirming the passed national tehnical inspection

Essential Safety Equipment

• Warning triangle
• Fire extinguisher
• First aid kit
• Reflective vest
• Torch

Drink Driving Limits

50mg/100ml

Driving Speed Limits

Urban kph (mph)

Open Road kph (mph)

Motorway kph (mph)

Car

50 (31)

90 (56)

90-100 (56-62)

Towing

50 (31)

90 (56)

90-100 (56-62)

Drivers who have held a licence for less than 2 years are limited to 80kph (50mph)

Fuel

Fuel stations are well-equipped and widespread, most 24 hour service. You will want to fuel up at Statoil, Neste, Shell, of Lukoil for highest quality and value.

Tolls

There are no toll roads in Latvia.

Parking Information

Some areas of Latvia have established “Pay and Display” parking, in these areas you will need to purchase a disc or ticket from a meter to display on your dashboard. Illegally parked cars will have a wheel clamp placed on them.

Mobile Phones

It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving. The use of hands free systems is tolerated.

Emergency Numbers

Dial 112 anywhere in the EU to reach the emergency services.

Local numbers:
Fire – 01
Police – 02
Ambulance – 03

Tyres

Winter tyres are required between 1 December and 1 March.

Other Useful Information

Drivers should not leave the driving seat unless asked to do so when stopped by the police.

If involved in an accident, do not attempt to move the vehicle until given permission by the police, even if it is blocking the road.