Driving in Cyprus

Car Rentals Cyprus

Driving in Cyprus gives you the advantage of discovering the real Cyprus which so many people miss because they don't have a car.

In Cyprus only 20% of people use public transport because it finishes early at around 8.00pm in the evening. The majority of people in Cyprus have a car or some type of transport to get them around.

As in the UK, driving is on the left-hand side of the road and you must have either a valid international driving licence or a national driving licence from your country.

The roads are good and distances and speeds are posted in kilometres throughout the island so driving in Cyprus can be very enjoyable. All you need is a good map to show you where you're going. It's a good idea to buy a map of Cyprus before you arrive as this can save you a lot of time and also prevent you getting lost.

Don't forget to get a Cyprus street map which is free of charge from the local Cyprus Tourist Office of the city or town you're staying in Cyprus.

Seat Belts

Seat belts are compulsory in the front and back of a car and if a child occupies the passenger seat (between the age of 5 and 10), a child's safety belt must be fitted and used. On no account can a child under the age of 5 sit in the front sea.

Telephones In Cyprus - Mobile Phones

The authorities are very hot on the use of mobile phones whilst driving and anyone caught receives an on-the-spot fine of CY£50. (More info on mobiles at telephones in Cyprus page).

Motorcyles and Autocycles

When riding a motorcyle or autocycle it's compulsory to wear a crash helmet.

Rush Hours in Towns:

07:30-08:00 in the morning and 13:00-13:30 in the afternoon
Late afternoon: 17:00-18:00 in winter and 18:00-19:00 in summer.

Driving Licence in Cyprus

To apply for a driving licence in Cyprus (for the theoretical and practical test) and for issuing driving licenses, exchanging driving licenses and information on costs involved contact:

The Road Transport Department
(Ministry of Communications and Works)
P.O. Box 1425
Nicosia
Cyprus
Tel: +357 22807117
Fax: +357 22354030

For car insurance contact the following:

The Road Transport Department
(Ministry of Communications and Works)
P.O. Box 1425
Nicosia
Cyprus
Tel: +357 22807117
Fax: +357 22354030

For car tax contact the following:

Customs and Excise Department
Headquarters
Corner of M.Kara
oli and G. Afxentiou Str.
1096 Nicosia
Tel: +357 22601713
Fax: +357 22302031

Customs & Excise Department VAT Service
Corner M. Karaoli & G. Afxentiou
1096 Nicosia
Tel: +357 22601766
Fax: +357 22 660484

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