RRoad Clarity

ItalyvsSan Marino

Italy and San Marino share a land border — here's how their driving rules differ, side by side.

VERIFIED 2026-07-29 & 2026-07-29 · METHODOLOGY
RULEItalySan Marino
Driving sideDrives on the rightDrives on the right
Urban speed limit50 km/h50 km/h
Rural speed limit90 km/h70 km/h
Motorway speed limit130 km/hNo general limit
Alcohol limit (general)0.5‰0.5‰
Alcohol limit (novice)0.0‰0.0‰
Mandatory equipmentWarning triangle, Hi-vis vest (for driver, if exiting vehicle on a road), Spare bulb kit (recommended)Warning triangle, Hi-vis vest
TollsToll boothsNo general toll
HeadlightsDipped headlights mandatory on motorways and main roads outside built-up areas at all times, and in all tunnels.Dipped headlights recommended in poor visibility and tunnels; not generally mandatory in daylight otherwise.
Winter tires / chainsWinter tires or snow chains carried on board are required on many roads roughly mid-November to mid-April, but exact dates and affected roads are set locally by each road authority — check signage on your specific route, especially in the Alps and Apennines.Winter tires or chains can be advisable in winter given the elevated, hilly terrain, though not a strict requirement distinct from surrounding Italian practice.
Low-emission / restricted zonesMany city centers (Milan, Rome, Bologna, and others) have camera-enforced restricted traffic zones (ZTL) or low-emission zones — check local signage before entering.The historic hilltop city center (a UNESCO World Heritage site) restricts general vehicle access — most visitors park outside and walk or take a cable car up.
Child seatsChildren under 150 cm must use an approved child restraint suited to their size; rear-facing seats must not be used in front of an active airbag.Children under 150 cm must use an approved child restraint suited to their size.
Mobile phone useHands-free only; holding a phone while driving is prohibited.Hands-free only; holding a phone while driving is prohibited.
CurrencyEUREUR
Emergency number112112