Driving in Sweden: Tips for Foreign Drivers

Driving in Sweden is a real treat for those who enjoy open roads, stunning landscapes, and well-maintained highways. Whether you’re planning to explore the Swedish countryside, visit quaint villages, or navigate the bustling streets of Stockholm, it’s important to know the local driving rules and culture. Based on my experience driving across Sweden, here’s what you need to know to have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Traffic Side and Rules of the Road

Driving on the Right

In Sweden, drivers keep to the right side of the road, similar to most European countries. If you’re coming from a country that drives on the left, it might take some time to adjust, especially when navigating roundabouts and overtaking.

Speed Limits

Speed limits in Sweden are strictly enforced, and they can vary depending on the type of road:

• Urban areas: 30–50 km/h (18–31 mph).
• Rural roads: 70–90 km/h (43–56 mph).
• Highways (motorväg): 110–120 km/h (68–75 mph).

Sweden is serious about road safety, so make sure to pay close attention to the speed limit signs. Speed cameras are common, and fines can be hefty.

Roundabouts and Right of Way

Swedes are quite disciplined at roundabouts. If you’re unfamiliar, the rule is simple: yield to traffic coming from the left already in the roundabout. In most cases, you’ll find clear signage indicating this. Unlike in some countries, there’s little honking or aggressive behavior at roundabouts, so just take it easy.

Seatbelt Use

Seatbelt use is mandatory for both the driver and all passengers, regardless of where they’re sitting in the car. If you’re traveling with children, Sweden has strict child safety seat laws (more on that below).

Road Conditions and Winter Driving

Excellent Road Infrastructure

One of the first things you’ll notice is how well-maintained Swedish roads are. Even rural areas have smooth asphalt, and road signs are clearly marked in Swedish (but symbols are universally understandable). However, weather can impact driving conditions, especially in winter.

Winter Driving in Sweden

Sweden’s winters can be long and snowy, especially in the northern part of the country. Winter tires are mandatory between December 1st and March 31st, and you’ll often need studded tires in more rural, icy areas. Driving in snow may sound intimidating, but Sweden handles winter road maintenance exceptionally well. Roads are regularly plowed, and there are even “snow sticks” placed along roadsides to help drivers see the edges of the road in heavy snow.

If you’re unfamiliar with icy conditions, my advice is to take it slow and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns. Many cars in Sweden are equipped with all-wheel drive or studded tires to help with traction.

Alcohol Limits and Distracted Driving

Strict Alcohol Limits

Sweden has some of the toughest drink-driving laws in Europe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%, which means even a single beer could put you over the limit. This is lower than in many countries, so it’s safest to avoid drinking altogether if you’re planning to drive.

Random police checkpoints are common, and if you’re caught over the limit, expect heavy fines or even jail time. Sweden doesn’t take this lightly, and neither should you.

Telephone Use

Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal in Sweden. If you need to make a call or use navigation, make sure you have a hands-free setup in your car. Many Swedes use phone mounts with Bluetooth for this reason.

Child Safety and Headlight Use

Child Safety Seats

If you’re traveling with kids, be aware that children under the age of 15 and shorter than 135 cm (4’5″) must use an appropriate child safety seat. Rear-facing seats are recommended for younger children, and they’re quite common in Sweden—often up to the age of 4.

Headlights: Always On

A unique feature of driving in Sweden is the requirement to have your headlights on at all times, even during the day. It’s a simple safety rule that helps visibility, especially in winter when daylight hours are short.

Toll Roads and Fuel Availability

Toll Roads

Sweden doesn’t have many toll roads, but there are congestion charges in Stockholm and Gothenburg. These are automatically applied via your vehicle’s registration, so you don’t have to stop at toll booths. However, if you’re driving a rental, make sure to ask the company how they handle these fees to avoid any surprises later.

Fuel Availability

Fuel stations are easy to find across Sweden, though in remote areas of the north (like Lapland), they can be farther apart. Most stations are self-service, and credit cards are widely accepted. Diesel is common, so make sure to check if your rental runs on petrol or diesel to avoid filling up with the wrong fuel (it happens more often than you’d think!).

Documents Required and Emergency Numbers

Documents to Carry

When driving in Sweden, you’ll need to carry:

• Valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit is recommended if your license isn’t in English or another EU language).
• Vehicle registration documents (if driving your own car).
• Proof of insurance.
• ID or passport.

If you’re renting a car, the rental company usually provides the necessary documentation for the vehicle. Just make sure you have your personal documents in order.

Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency, dial 112—the general emergency number for police, fire, and medical services. For non-urgent matters, like minor traffic accidents or road assistance, use 114 14.

Conclusion

Driving in Sweden is generally stress-free, thanks to its well-maintained roads, disciplined drivers, and clear road signs. If you’re traveling during winter, make sure your car is equipped with the right tires and take it easy on icy roads. Always be mindful of the strict alcohol laws, and remember to keep your headlights on, even during the day! With these tips, you’ll be ready to hit the road and enjoy all the beautiful sights Sweden has to offer.

FAQs about driving in Sweden