Travel by car in Latvia

Last Updated on 2023-05-01 by Birk Karsten Ecke

Driving in Latvia – the main traffic rules

Some information about driving and traffic rules in Latvia

To be honest, driving in Latvia is not for everyone. Especially in the capital Rīga, there is a lot of traffic at peak times. Mutual consideration in road traffic is not exactly a matter of course here. Driving in rural areas is much more relaxed. The main roads are sometimes in bad condition and the side roads are mostly dirt tracks. The speed limits of 50 km/h in town and 90 km/h outside town should be strictly observed. There are also speed traps in Latvia. If you are caught driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, there will not only be a large fine, there is also a ten-day prison sentence. Also, as a foreigner, you should not try to bribe a police officer.

Driver’s license and vehicle documents

• If you are a resident of a Schengen country, the national driving license is sufficient.
• The registration certificate must be carried with you.
• The license plate number is sufficient as proof of valid motor liability insurance.
  Nevertheless, it is recommended that you take your international insurance card with you.

Speed Limits

• Within built-up areas 50 km/h.
  In residential areas 20 km/h.
• Out of town 90 km/h.
• On freeways 90 km/h.
  On a few road sections the speed limit is 100 km/h or 110 km/h (signposted).

Peculiarities at traffic lights

• Traffic light switching: Green – flashing green – yellow – red.
• If the traffic light is yellow, you may no longer drive.

Priority rules

• Trams, buses and trolleybuses have priority.

Light duty

• Dipped headligt daytime running lights or alternatively dipped headligt  must be used on all roads during the day all year round.

Child seats

Children under 150 cm tall must be secured in a child restraint system.

Safety vests compulsory

• Motorists must wear a high-visibility vest when leaving their vehicle outside built-up areas in the event of a breakdown or accident at night or when visibility is poor.
• In the interest of your own safety, it is advisable to carry several warning vests, depending on the number of vehicle occupants, since it cannot be ruled out that in individual cases the passengers will also have to be on the road.

Winter equipment of vehicles

• From December 1st to March 1st of the following year, winter tires are compulsory for vehicles up to 3.5 t gross vehicle weight and their trailers. Winter tires with a minimum tread depth of 4 mm must be used.
• Snow chains may be fitted to all vehicles when the roads are covered with snow.
• Spikes may be used during the winter months from October 1st to April 30th.

Fire extinguisher

• The obligation to carry a fire extinguisher required in the country does not apply to vehicles registered abroad.
• However, to avoid any misunderstandings that may arise, it is strongly recommended that you carry one with you.
• Personally, I would not carry a CO2 fire extinguisher in the vehicle for good reasons. A powder extinguisher is a better choice.

Alcohol limit

• The alcohol limit is 0.5 parts per thousands.
• For drivers who have held their driving license for less than 2 years, 0.2 parts per thousands applies.

Correct behavior in the event of an accident or breakdown

• In the event of a traffic accident, the police must be notified.
• In the event of property damage, we recommend using the European Accident Report.
  This document can be downloaded here, for example https://www.allianz.co.uk/content/dam/onemarketing/azuk/allianzcouk/broker/docs/support/european-accident-statement-form.pdf.