Drive Left and Other Surprises

Left-hand traffic. But also: different roundabouts, alcohol limits, fines. Key differences to know.

Key Differences

Left-hand traffic (overtake on right). Speed: motorway 100, rural 80, urban 50. Alcohol 0.5‰ (weekend checks). Phone: hands-free only (€150). Seatbelt all seats (€85). Child seat under 5.

This was exactly our experience: Speed: motorway 100, rural 80, urban 50. Alcohol 0.5‰ (weekend checks). Phone: hands-free only (€150).

– Newcomer from Nuremberg, in Limassol since 2024

Fines

Speed: €1/km/h over. Red light: €300. Parking: €25-85. No seatbelt: €85. Phone: €150. Pay within 15 days: 50% discount. Online via QR code.

Peculiarities

Roundabout priority: in circle (but many ignore it). Horn: communication not aggression. Indicators: optional for many Cypriots. Animals on rural roads: goats, sheep, cats, dogs at dusk.

Traffic Rules Cyprus

Topics: Drive Left and Other Surprises, Key Differences, Fines

CMC Practical Tip

Speed: motorway 100, rural 80, urban 50.

Frequently Asked Questions

Blood alcohol limit?

0.5‰ (same as Germany). Weekend checks frequent. Fine €500-2,000 + license suspension.

Speed limits?

Motorway 100. Rural 80. Urban 50. Most drive 10-20 over. Cameras active: €1/km/h.

License conversion needed?

No – German EU license valid indefinitely. No conversion, no test.

Driving style?

More aggressive. Defensive driving, keep distance. Routine after 2-3 weeks.

How CMC Supports You

At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.

As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.

Further Reading