How to Be a Good Driver in Turkey (Practical Guide for Travelers)

by IDL Support

Driving in Turkey can be one of the most rewarding travel experiences you’ll ever have winding coastal highways along the Aegean and Mediterranean, the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, and the freedom to stop at small villages and hidden ruins along the way. But the country’s driving culture, road rules, and toll systems can be unfamiliar and sometimes challenging for visitors.

If you’re planning to rent a car using an International Driving Permit (IDP), you’ll need more than just your licence. You’ll need an understanding of Turkish traffic laws, local etiquette, and practical road survival strategies. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything from documents and tolls to navigating Istanbul traffic, rural hazards, and emergency procedures so you can stay safe, legal, and confident on Turkish roads.

Understand the Key Traffic Rules

  • Turkey follows the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, meaning many rules align with European standards but there are local differences worth noting.

  • Speed limits (unless otherwise posted):

    • Urban areas: 50 km/h.

    • Two lane rural roads: 90 km/h.

    • Dual carriageways: 110 km/h.

    • Motorways: 120 km/h.

  • Other key laws: 

    • Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.

    • Handheld mobile phone use is prohibited; hands free systems are allowed.

    • Use headlights at night and in tunnels. Dipped beam headlights are recommended in poor weather even during the day.

    • Roundabouts: drivers inside have priority unless otherwise marked but watch for exceptions.

    • Overtaking on the right is illegal except in specific situations.

Fines can be issued on the spot or sent to your rental company in which case they’ll charge your card later, often adding an administrative fee.

Before You Pick Up the Keys Paperwork and Rental Must Haves

  • Essential documents to carry at all times:

    • Valid national driving licence from your home country.

    • International Driving Permit (IDP) also known as International Driving License; while some rental companies accept a licence in Roman script, police officers and smaller local agencies prefer an International Permit for language clarity.

    • Passport (original, not a copy) Turkish police may ask for this during stops.

    • Credit card in the driver’s name required for deposits and toll/fine holds.

    • Rental agreement and insurance certificate must be in the car at all times.

  • Insurance to consider:

    • Third Party Liability legally required and usually included.

    • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) reduces your liability for damage to the rental car.

    • Theft Protection covers losses if the car is stolen.

    • Full Excess Waiver eliminates or reduces out of pocket costs in case of damage.

    • Roadside Assistance not always included; important for rural or mountainous driving.

Tip: Always inspect the car before leaving the lot. Photograph any scratches, dents, or windshield chips and get the rental agent to note them.

Tolls an the HGS System (How to Pay Without Stress)

Most major highways, bridges, and tunnels in Turkey use HGS (Hızlı Geçiş Sistemi), an electronic toll collection system. There are no cash booths entering without payment results in fines.

How it works:

  • Vehicles have a windshield sticker or electronic tag linked to a prepaid balance.

  • Tolls are deducted automatically when you pass under an HGS gantry.

  • Balances can be topped up at PTT post offices, certain petrol stations, and some banks.

Rental car tip: Ask your rental company if HGS is already active in your car. Most major agencies include it and bill you later. If not, buy a tag on day one to avoid violations.

Adapting to Turkish Driving Style and Etiquette

Driving culture in Turkey varies by region:

  • Istanbul and Ankara: fast, impatient, and congested. Expect quick lane changes, close following distances, and frequent horn use.

  • Tourist coasts (Antalya, Bodrum, İzmir): more relaxed but still busy in high season.

  • Rural Anatolia: slower pace, but be prepared for farm vehicles, animals, or pedestrians on the road.

Etiquette tips:

  • Use your indicators, even if locals sometimes don’t.

  • Don’t take horn use personally it’s often a gentle nudge, not aggression.

  • Keep right except to overtake; left lanes are for passing.

Fuel, Navigation and Connectivity

  • Fuel types: "Benzin" (petrol) and "Motorin" (diesel) are common; LPG is also available but usually not for rental cars.

  • Payment: most big stations accept cards; in rural areas, carry cash just in case.

  • Navigation: download offline maps in Google Maps or Maps.me; mobile data coverage can be patchy in remote areas.

  • Language tip: staff at big stations often speak some English; in rural spots, pointing to the fuel type works fine.

Police Stops, Fines and What to Do

If you’re pulled over:

  • Stay calm and polite; remain in the car unless told otherwise.

  • Hand over your passport, national licence, International Driving Permit , rental contract, and insurance.

  • If you receive a fine, ask for a receipt. Paying promptly can sometimes earn a discount.

Common fine examples:

  • Speeding: can exceed €50–€200 depending on excess.

  • Not wearing a seatbelt: €20–€30 equivalent.

  • Phone use: €50–€60 equivalent.

Breakdowns, Accidents and Emergency Numbers

  • 112 general emergency (medical, fire, police).

  • 154 traffic police direct line.

  • For breakdowns, call your rental company’s roadside assistance number first.

In case of accidents:

  • Do not move the car until police arrive (unless it’s unsafe to stay).

  • Photograph all damage and the scene.

  • Exchange details with other drivers.

How to Obtain an IDP

Applying for an International Driver's Permit (IDP) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

  • Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's Permit. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.

  • Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://internationalpermit.com/pages/apply-for-the-international-driving-permit

  • Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDP application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.

  • Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.

  • Receive IDP: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's Permit.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

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Cost of an International Driver's Permit

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's Permit are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDP, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://internationalpermit.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-driving-permit

Conclusion

Driving in Turkey as a visitor with an International Driving Permit is entirely doable and immensely rewarding if you prepare properly. The key to being a good driver here is a mix of legal compliance, local adaptation, and common sense. Have your documents in order, understand tolls and road rules, and keep your driving style flexible to match the surroundings.

Whether you’re cruising the Aegean coast, climbing into the Anatolian mountains, or inching through Istanbul’s rush hour, the road can be your gateway to a richer, more flexible Turkish adventure. Drive smart, respect the rules, and you’ll not only stay safe you’ll truly enjoy the journey.

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