Traffic signs
Each country has its own system of road signs, with noticeable differences between continents. If this is your first time driving in Iceland, here are the road signs you need to be familiar with.
In Iceland, a variety of common road signs can be found along roadsides, highways, and near intersections, making them easy to notice. These signs are not only prevalent but also crucial.
The color and shape of each sign denote its category. Continue reading to discover the different types of signs in Iceland, such as traffic, informational, warning, mandatory, and advisory signs.
Speed limit Sign
Speed signs in Iceland are yellow circles bordered by red. Remember that Iceland uses the metric system, so speeds are indicated in kilometers per hour (kph).
Here is an overview of the typical speed limits you may encounter in Iceland, along with the average speeds for those areas:
- Gravel Roads: Speed limit is 80 kph
- Paved Roads: Speed limit is 90 kph
- Residential Areas: Between 30 kph to 50 kph
In Iceland, you will also encounter suggested speed limits, denoted by blue square signs displaying white numbers within a white circle. While not compulsory, these advisory speed limits are provided to assist you in navigating Icelandic roads. It is advisable to adhere to these recommendations for your safety while exploring Iceland.
One-Lane Bridge Sign
You may encounter one-lane bridge roads that demand careful driving. You can safely navigate these bridges by reducing your speed as you approach the bridge and ensuring clear visibility ahead.
The sign to watch for is a double sign featuring exclamation mark within a yellow triangle bordered by red at the top, accompanied by an illustration of a single car crossing a bridge above the words "einbreið brú"
Gravel Road Surface Sign
A crucial sign to recognize when driving in Iceland is the gravel road sign, which indicates a change in the road surface that can impact your vehicle's handling. Iceland's F-roads can be uneven with a loose surface.
You will encounter a double sign: the top sign is a black exclamation mark within a yellow triangle bordered by red, and the bottom sign displays an image of a road with the words "malbik endar" meaning "asphalt ends". It is especially important to pay attention to these signs in Iceland, as the change in road surface will affect your vehicle's grip, thereby increasing stopping distance.
4x4 Road Sign
To access certain destinations in Iceland, such as the Icelandic Highlands, a 4x4 vehicle is necessary. These areas are reachable only via the mountainous F-roads, some of which cross rivers and navigate challenging terrain. Therefore, it is essential to ensure you have a sturdy, reliable 4x4 rental vehicle in Iceland before attempting these routes.
The two signs labeled 4x4 indicate that a rough road ahead is intended only for 4x4 vehicles, prohibiting 2WD vehicles.
Animal Road Signs
Icelandic's stunning natural landscapes host a variety of wildlife, some of which inhabit areas close to the Icelandic road network, especially in rural regions. Remaining vigilant while driving on roads with animal signs is essential for safeguarding the Icelandic fauna.
These Icelandic road signs consist of yellow triangles outlined in red, featuring a black symbol representing the nearby animal species. Occasionally, there may be distance sign below indicating the location of the animals along the road.
City Driving In Iceland - Typical Road Signs
Navigating city streets demands a different set of skills. Instead of contending with natural landscape obstacles, you must recognize traffic signs pertaining to everyday matters like parking regulations and right of way. Let's explore some of these signs!
The initial red circle with a yellow bar signifies "No Entry", indicating that you cannot make a turn or access the road from your current direction. However, entry is permissible from other access point.
The second sign, featuring a combination of yellow and red, denote "No Driving". This restriction applies to all vehicles from any direction, driving within these areas is strictly prohibited.
Parking signs
While many signs are easy to understand, it is crucial not to make mistakes and risk receiving a ticket. Interestingly, if you do receive one, you are legally obligated to settle it, even if you have already departed the country.
The first sign specifies that the parking is designed for passenger cars. You may encounter identical signs but featuring symbols for trucks, motorbikes, or electrical vehicle, indicating the type of vehicle permitted to park there. The second sign indicates parking reserved for the disabled, while the last sign denotes a 30-minut time limit for parking.
Prohibition Signs
The initial blue circle with a single red line indicates "No Parking". This signifies that temporarily leaving your vehicle unattended is not permitted. However, you can still pull over, switch on your parking lights, and wait inside your vehicle briefly, such as for friend. It is important not to make mistake for the second circle with a red "X", which signifies that both parking and stopping are prohibited.
