Driving in Northern Cyprus
In General
In the whole of Cyprus (North Cyprus and South Cyprus) is left-hand traffic: accordingly, all cars have the steering wheel on the right side. However, the order of pedaling the gas, brake and clutch does not change. Nevertheless, we recommend you to take a car with automatic transmission. What takes some getting used to is that the turn signals and windshield wipers are mounted exactly reversed with respect to right-hand traffic conditions. This can be a bit unusual at first, but don't worry - you will get used to it quickly!
Turning & Roundabout
Intersections and traffic circles are particularly challenging for the inexperienced: caution is advised here. It is recommended to move into the left lane when turning right if several lanes are available. Turning left is usually less critical because the oncoming lane is not crossed. Therefore, when turning right, pay particular attention to other vehicles and get into the correct lane in good time. In a traffic circle, the traffic moves clockwise, unlike in right-hand traffic countries.
Highway / Freeway
The left lane on highways is the slow lane; the right lane is for overtaking. In Cyprus, there is a maximum speed on the highway. There may also be traffic circles and crosswalks on highways. Special care must be taken when driving here.
Speed Limits
Speed indications on road signs are in km/h. In general, the following speed limits apply in North Cyprus (unless otherwise stated):
| Highway maximum speed | 100 km/h | 62 mph |
| Highway minimum speed | 65 km/h | 40 mph |
| Country roads | 80 km/h | 49 mph |
| Urban areas | 50 km/h | 31 mph |
Car rental
Generally, you are not allowed to drive with rental cars from North Cyprus to South Cyprus. Conversely, this is allowed, provided that the car rental company has given explicit permission to this. It should be noted that at the border with the north an additional motor vehicle liability insurance must be taken out. This can be taken out and be paid for directly at the border crossing. The minimum age to rent a car in Northern Cyprus is 25 years.
Parking
Free public parking is available in all major cities. In principle, many other free spaces are also suitable for parking. Areas where parking is not allowed are marked either with a no parking sign, a black and white painted curb or double yellow lines. Parking lots are called "Oto Parks".
Petrol station
Most gas stations are open between 07:00 and 20:00. Unfortunately, there are only a few gas stations that are open around the clock. However, there are a few vending machine gas stations. At gas stations in North Cyprus you do not fill up yourself; you stay in the car and wait for the attendant to fill up your car.
All information has been provided to the best of our knowledge and belief, but is without guarantee and in no way constitutes legal advice.