If you're planning to rent a car in Cyprus, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules, fines, and road police to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

Traffic Rules in Cyprus

  • Drive Side: In Cyprus, vehicles drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat Belts: All passengers are required to wear seat belts, both in the front and back seats of the vehicle.
  • Using Phones: It is illegal to use handheld mobile phones while driving. A hands-free system is allowed.
  • Rules for Carrying Children: Children under the age of five must use an appropriate child restraint system (car seat) and be seated in the rear of the vehicle. Children aged 5-12 must also use a car seat or booster seat, depending on their height and weight.
  • Headlights: Headlights must be used between sunset and sunrise, during foggy or rainy conditions, and in poorly lit areas.
  • Alcohol Consumption Rules: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% for drivers, and 0.02% for newly licensed drivers with less than three years of experience.
  • Specific Traffic Signs: Cyprus uses international traffic signs, but some may have additional information in Greek and Turkish languages. Watch out for the “Stop” signs with Greek characters reading “ΣΤΟΠ.”

Speed limits in Cyprus

Speed limits vary depending on the type of road and area:

  • Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)
  • Motorways: 100 km/h (62 mph)

Fines in Cyprus

Fines are charged in the local currency (EUR) for various violations:

  • Speeding: Fines range from €1 per km/h over the limit to €3 per km/h over the limit, depending on the degree of the violation.
  • Not wearing a seat belt: €85
  • Using a mobile phone while driving: €85
  • Parking violations: €85
  • Running a red light: €85
  • Drunk driving: €100-€200 for first-time offenders, with more severe penalties for repeat offenders or higher levels of intoxication.
  • Children without child seats: €85

Fines can be paid at local police stations or online through the Cyprus Police website.

Road Police in Cyprus

Cyprus has a network of traffic cameras monitoring roads, and the road police are responsible for enforcing traffic laws. If you are stopped by the police, remain calm, and provide your driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents upon request. In case of an accident, call the police at 112.