Driving in Turkey
Key road rules in Turkey you need to know
When you are hiring a car abroad, it’s useful to be prepared for the different driving laws in the country you are travelling to as well as checking the documents you need to carry.
To help make your trip to as smooth as possible, we've put together some of the key road rules in Turkey.
- These rules are to be used as a guide and are subject to change. Please check with your Avis representative if you have any questions.
- Your Avis representative can advise you on toll and road charges before leaving the Avis car hire location and whether snow tyres or chains are needed.
Take a look at our Turkey location page for ideas, travelling tips and booking information.
Which side of the road?
In Turkey, please drive on the RIGHT side of the road.
Unique Country Driving Laws
- Do not use a cell phone while driving. It is strictly prohibited. It is legal to use a hands free unit.
- All passengers are obligated to wear seatbelts while in the vehicle.
- In the event of an accident, be sure to call the Traffic Police and make a report. Do not move your vehicle.
- Vehicles may be towed away if causing an obstruction or violating parking restrictions.
- There are speed cameras on all types of road.
- Headlights must be used at all times.
- It is a legal requirement to have your driving licence and car hire documents with you. (An International Driving Licence is required only for countries with non-Roman alphabet. Or you can get a notorised copy in Turkish). It is also advisable to have your passport with you.
- The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5%. If you are caught driving above this limit, you will face a heavy fine and your licence will be immediately confiscated for at least six months.
Speed Limits
For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:
- Urban areas: 31 mph (50 km/h)
- Rural areas: 55 mph (90 km/h)
- Motorways: 74 mph (120km/h)
Unless indicated by road signs.
Child Safety / Seatbelt Laws
It is compulsory for all inside the vehicle to wear a seatbelt.
- Children under 150cm and less than 35kg must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size.
- Children under 10 can not travel in the front seat.
Please note - It is the child’s parent / guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.
Compulsory Equipment in your Avis rental car
- First-aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- 2 x Warning triangle
Emergency Services
Police
Ambulance
Fire Department
Traffic Police
European Emergency Number
115
112
110
154
112
Frequently asked questions
The legal age to drive in Turkey is 18. However, you must be at least 21 years old to hire a car.
You must have a notarised copy (in Turkish) of your UK driving licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
You need to carry a green card as proof of vehicle insurance.
There is no metered parking in Turkey. Parking officials collect fees.
Overtaking is permitted unless signage prohibits it or at intersections, level crossings, bends on bridges or tunnels.
No, this is prohibited.
Toll charges differ considerably across the country.
Please call us on 444 28 47 / 444 for help during a breakdown, accident or for Roadside Assistance.
All cars in Turkey are fitted with a HGS device which allows you to travel through High-Speed Toll Systems on the motorway. It collects your toll automatically.
At the end of your rental, you’ll be charged for any costs incurred.
