Frank Andreassen - www.nordnorge.com - Harstad
Driving in Norway
Driving is one of the best ways to discover modern architecture, experience fantastic fjords, mountain and coastal scenery.
Some roads are less than perfect, because of dirt or gravel, but all are passable, even on a drive to the North Cape.
Most mountain roads are open by May 1; the so-called motoring season lasts from mid-May to the end of September.
In western Norway, hairpin curves are common, but if you're willing to settle for doing less than 240km (149 miles) a day, you needn't worry. Matter of fact the easiest and most convenient touring territory is in and around Oslo and south to Stavanger.
If you are going over mountain passes there are often very long downhill stretches, when brakes may overheat. Please note to avoid this, drive in a low gear (the gear you would use if you were driving up the slope).
In this way, you will not have to brake so hard and that brakes will not heat up so quickly. When driving up steep slopes the car is required to work hard. Keep an eye on the car's temperature gauge, because the car can quickly overheat.
Toll stations
Regarding toll roads and Auto passes, you will find there are many toll stations in Norway, but almost all of them are automatic. You will have to be sure to register your credit card or buy credit in advance.
There are many toll stations in Norway, and almost all of them are automatic. Make sure you register your credit card or buy credit in advance.
Driving regulations
You have to be aware of Norway`s driving regulations of course. Driving is on the right, and the law requires that you keep your headlights on at all times. Every passenger, including infants, must wear seat belts. Children 5 years of age and under must ride in the back. A driver must yield to cars approaching from the right.
On most major highways, the maximum speed limit is 90kmph (55 mph). On secondary routes, the speed limit ranges from 70kmph (43 mph) to 80kmph (50 mph). It is of course not allowed to drink when you drive. Norway has perhaps the strictest laws in Europe about drinking and driving, and there are roadside checks. Speeding is also severely punished, and most highways are monitored by radar and cameras.
Security
Seat belts are compulsory. All children must be firmly strapped in using approved safety equipment that matches their age, size and weight.
Children under 135 centimetres must have their own seat or safety restraint (babies in a cot). Children over 36 kilos, or 135 centimetres, can use a normal seat.
The following telephone numbers will provide help:
Fire: 110
Police: 112
Ambulance: 113
You need a full, valid driving license issued in your country of residence.
Car hire in Norway
Do you consider to hire a car in Norway, you may need to have held the license for at least one year. If you are planning to stay in Norway for more than three months, you will need to get a Norwegian driving license
