Rules & Regulations
Please read our guide to driving in Estonia before you go on the road.
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left.
- Every occupant of the vehicle should wear a seat belt if fitted.
- A child younger than 12 and not yet tall enough to use an adult seat belt must use a child restraint or child seat adapted to their size.
- Don’t drink and drive, the blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is zero.
- The use of mobile phones whilst driving is illegal unless you use a hands-free system.
- Dipped headlights should be used at all times. You can be fined for not using your headlights.
- It is prohibited to overtake a tram which has stopped to let passengers on or off.
- Driving with a dirty number plate can result in a fine.
- If there are people at an unregulated crossroads, you need to stop and give way to pedestrians.
Please make sure that you are aware of all the road regulations before you start your trip in Estonia.
Speed Limits
The Standard legal limits, which may be varied by signs, for private vehicles without trailers when driving in Estonia are as follows:
- Built-up areas 50 km/h
- Roads outside built-up areas 90 km/h including motorways
Things to Bring Along
Here’s a breakdown of some things to take along when driving in Estonia:
- Carry your UK driver’s licence and your passport with you at all times when driving in Estonia
- Warning Triangle x 2 to be used in the event of your vehicle breaking down to warn other drivers.
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
Additional Information
Police can hand out on the spot fines even for the smallest speeding offences.
Winter tyres are a legal requirement from 1 December to 1 March every year but these dates can vary depending on the weather. Speed limits will also vary in extreme winter conditions so take extra care if you are driving around this time. Check the local conditions if you are driving in Estonia in the winter.
Motorists must pay a toll to enter the city of Tallin but there are no other toll roads in Estonia.
Be careful when driving on inter-city highways at night as there may be moose on the roads. There are road signs drawing your attention to this but they can be difficult to see when driving at night.
Some roads in rural areas between villages are unpaved but the condition of roads are generally good.
Most major town and cities have designated parking areas with meters and car parks. Illegally parked cars will be clamped.
The number for Police and Emergency services is 112.
Sixt has 5 branches in the capital city of Tallinn including one at Tallinn Airport.
With so much to see in Estonia, you’ll reap the benefits by using a car rental from Sixt.
