Can You Drive in Norway With a Non-EU/EEA Driving License?
- Scandinavian Travel
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Norway, with its breathtaking landscapes and dramatic scenery, is a dream destination for anyone with a sense of adventure. From lush forests and dramatic waterfalls, to glistening fjords and majestic mountain hikes, exploring this beautiful Nordic nation is best done by road.
In this blog, we’ll answer all the most important questions, including ‘do I need an international driver’s license in Norway?’ and ‘can I drive in Norway with a US license?’. This guide will explain everything you need to know about driving in Norway as a foreign visitor, including rules for different nationalities and whether renting a motorhome is possible with a US driving license. Let’s go!
Can Americans Drive in Norway?
So, can Americans drive in Norway? The quick answer is yes! US citizens are allowed to drive in Norway using their American driving license, but there are a few important conditions to keep in mind:
Tourists from the US can legally drive in Norway for up to 90 days after entering the country. If your stay exceeds three months, you’ll need to apply for a Norwegian driving license.
Your US license must not be expired and it should be printed in English.
Although not a legal requirement, carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) is advisable, particularly if your license isn’t in English.
As long as you meet these conditions, you should be able to enjoy a stunning road trip by driving in Norway with a US license.
Can You Use a UK Driving License in Norway?
If you're from the UK and wondering whether you can drive in Norway, the process is very similar to that for American visitors. Following Brexit, the UK is no longer part of the EU, so UK citizens must follow the same rules as other non-EU drivers:
You can use your UK license to drive in Norway for up to 90 days.
An IDP isn’t mandatory, but having one may help to avoid complications.
If your visit extends beyond three months, you might need to convert your UK license to a Norwegian one.
Thanks to reciprocal agreements between the UK and Norway, British drivers typically experience few issues when driving around the country.
Can You Use a Ukrainian Driving License in Norway?
The rules for Ukrainian nationals are slightly different. Since Ukraine is not an EU or EEA member, the general rule is that visitors can drive in Norway with a Ukrainian license for up to three months. However, due to Norway’s ongoing policy of providing collective protection to Ukrainian nationals, these special rules apply:
Ukrainian driving licenses are currently valid for driving in Norway beyond the standard three-month rule.
If staying for more than three months, a license exchange may still be required.
It’s strongly advised to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if your license is not written in the Latin alphabet.
Unless stated otherwise by new agreements, the three-month guideline remains the norm for non-EU/EEA licenses.
What Driving License Requirements Are There in Norway?
No matter which country you’re from, there are some basic legal requirements you must meet in order to drive in Norway:
You must be 18 or older to legally drive a car.
Your driving license must be current and not expired.
It’s important to also take your ID with you whenever you’re driving, such as your passport or identity card.
You need a valid car insurance package. If you're renting, this is usually included.
Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt at all times.
During snowy or icy seasons, appropriate winter tyres or chains are mandatory in some areas.
Norway enforces a strict blood alcohol limit of just 0.02%.
By following these rules, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable driving experience across the incredible country that is Norway.
Do You Need an International Driver’s License in Norway?
An International Driving License (IDP) acts as a translated version of your driving license and can help smooth out any issues while driving in Norway as a tourist. So, an important question you may have about your trip is ‘do I need an international driver’s license in Norway?’. The short answer is not always, but in some cases it can be helpful. While an International Driving License (IDP) is not legally required for tourists from the US, UK or Ukraine, it’s often a good idea to have one. Here are some reasons why having an IDP can be a good idea:
Your license is written in a language or script that may not be easily recognized by local authorities (e.g. Cyrillic), especially if you plan to travel in rural or remote areas where police might not be familiar with foreign licenses.
Having an IDP can prevent confusion if you’re stopped or involved in an accident.
Some car rental companies may request an IDP, even if it’s not legally necessary.
Obtaining an IDP is quick and simple through organizations like AAA (for Americans).
Can You Rent a Motorhome in Norway with a US Driver's License?
Want to discover Norway’s wild and wonderful beauty at your own pace? Renting a motorhome is one of the most popular and flexible ways to explore. The great news is that you can rent a motorhome in Norway with a US driver’s license, provided you meet the following criteria:
Your US license must be valid and ideally written in English.
Most rental companies have minimum age requirements – typically 21 or 25 depending on vehicle type.
For motorhomes over 3,500 kg, you may need a specific license class like C1.
Some companies may ask for an IDP, so it's best to check with your rental provider in advance.
With the right documents and rental company, renting a motorhome is easy and opens the door to an epic Norwegian road trip adventure!
Travel to Norway For the Road Trip of a Lifetime!
Ready to hit the road and discover all Norway has to offer? Whether you’re winding through its dramatic fjords or camping under the Northern Lights, a self-drive trip gives you the freedom to marvel at our unique country’s magic on your own terms.
Start your vacation planning by reserving your ideal motorhome in Norway to make your dream trip a reality. Need any help? Just get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to answer any questions and help you out! We look forward to welcoming you to Norway soon.
