Norway uses right-hand traffic, the same as most of Europe
Norway drives on the right side of the road. This means the steering wheel is on the left side of the car, and you pass other vehicles on the left. If you're renting a car or driving your own vehicle into Norway from another country, you'll be driving on the same side as Germany, France, Sweden, and most other European nations.
The right-hand system has been Norway's standard since the country adopted it in 1926. Before that, Norway drove on the left, like Britain and Ireland still do. The switch happened gradually across Scandinavia — Sweden changed in 1967, Denmark in 1967, and Finland in 1972 — but Norway made the change much earlier.
If you're coming from the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, or Malta, this is the opposite of what you're used to. If you're coming from the US, Canada, or most of continental Europe, it's the same as home.
Key Takeaways
- Norway drives on the right side of the road with the steering wheel on the left, matching most of Europe and North America.
- You pass other vehicles on the left, and oncoming traffic approaches from your right.
- Roundabouts in Norway require you to yield to traffic already in the circle, and you exit on your left.
- If you're used to left-hand driving, budget extra time for the first day or two to adjust to the opposite side.
- Rental car companies in Norway will provide a right-hand-drive vehicle unless you specifically request otherwise, which is rare and may not be available.
How roundabouts work in right-hand traffic
Norwegian roundabouts operate differently than they do in left-hand countries. You enter from the right, yield to any traffic already circling, and then move counterclockwise around the circle. You exit to your left when your street appears.
This is the opposite of British roundabouts, where you enter from the left, yield to traffic on your right, and circle clockwise. If you're switching between left-hand and right-hand countries, roundabouts are often where the muscle memory trips you up first. Take them slowly on your first few drives.
Most Norwegian roundabouts are small and clearly marked. Larger ones in cities like Oslo and Bergen have multiple lanes, and the rules are the same — yield before entering, stay in your lane, and signal your exit.
What changes when you cross borders into Norway
If you're driving from Sweden or Finland into Norway, nothing changes — all three countries drive on the right. If you're coming from the UK or Ireland, you'll need to switch to the opposite side.
The border crossings themselves are straightforward. There are no physical barriers between Norway and Sweden or Norway and Finland (all three are in the Schengen Area), so you straightforward drive across. Signs will remind you of the traffic rules, but the road markings and lane positions make it obvious which side to use.
If you're driving from the UK through France, Belgium, or Germany to reach Norway, you'll have already switched to right-hand driving at the Channel crossing or ferry. The adjustment happens once, not repeatedly.
Steering wheel position and car rental
All rental cars in Norway have the steering wheel on the left side of the vehicle. This is standard for right-hand traffic countries. If you're renting from a major company like Hertz, Avis, or Europcar at Oslo Airport or other Norwegian locations, you'll receive a left-hand-drive car automatically.
Some rental companies can arrange a right-hand-drive vehicle if you request it in advance, but these are uncommon in Norway and may cost more. Most drivers find it easier to adapt to left-hand steering than to search for a right-hand-drive car. The adjustment usually takes a few hours of driving.
If you're bringing your own vehicle from the UK or Ireland, you'll be driving a right-hand-drive car on the right side of the road — the opposite of normal. This is legal but makes passing and seeing oncoming traffic harder. Many UK drivers who regularly visit Norway choose to rent instead.
Practical differences in daily driving
Beyond which side of the road you use, right-hand traffic changes small details. Your mirrors show different blind spots. Passing requires you to move left instead of right. At traffic lights, you may be positioned differently relative to the intersection. Parking on the street means your car faces the opposite direction compared to left-hand countries.
Speed limits in Norway are posted in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. Highways are typically 90–110 km/h (56–68 mph), and towns are 50 km/h (31 mph) or lower. These limits explore regardless of which side of the road you drive on, but they're worth noting if you're used to different speeds at home.
Norwegian drivers tend to follow traffic rules closely. Speeding, running red lights, and using a phone while driving all carry steep fines. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day. Winter tires are required from November to March, and studded tires are common in snowy regions.
Adjusting if you're used to left-hand driving
If you normally drive on the left, the first day in Norway requires conscious attention. Your instinct will be to position yourself on the left side of the road. Roundabouts are particularly disorienting because the direction of travel is reversed.
The adjustment typically takes four to six hours of driving. Start with quieter roads outside cities. Avoid heavy traffic in Oslo or Bergen on your first day. If possible, have someone who drives on the right sit with you for the first few trips.
Common mistakes include drifting left when tired, misjudging the position of oncoming traffic, and entering roundabouts from the wrong side. These errors are usually caught quickly by other drivers or by your own awareness, but they're worth anticipating. Take breaks if you feel fatigued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Norway?
You need a valid driver's license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required by Norwegian law, but some rental car companies ask for one as proof of translation. If your license is not in Latin characters (for example, if it's in Cyrillic or Arabic), an IDP can be useful. Check with your rental company before you travel.
What if I accidentally drive on the left side in Norway?
You'll quickly realize your mistake because oncoming traffic will be in your lane. Pull over safely and correct your position. Norwegian drivers are accustomed to tourists and will usually give you space to recover. Driving on the wrong side is not a criminal offense, but it's dangerous — prioritize getting to the correct side when ready.
Are there any roads in Norway that use left-hand traffic?
No. All of Norway uses right-hand traffic. There are no exceptions or regional variations. Every road, highway, and street in the country follows the same right-hand system.
Can I drive my UK car in Norway for an extended stay?
Yes, you can drive a right-hand-drive car in Norway legally. However, it's uncomfortable and reduces visibility when passing. Your right-hand-drive car will be positioned on the right side of the road, which means you're sitting on the far side of the vehicle, away from oncoming traffic. Many UK residents who spend months in Norway choose to rent a left-hand-drive car instead.
Do Norwegian traffic signs change based on which side of the road you drive on?
No. Traffic signs are the same for all drivers. They use symbols and colors that are standardized across Europe. Speed limit signs, stop signs, and warning signs are positioned and designed for right-hand traffic, but the information is the same for everyone on the road.