Driving in Cyprus

Reset driving habits for left-side traffic

Traffic in Cyprus keeps left. Read junctions and roundabouts from the perspective of left-side traffic and make a deliberate keep-left check after parking, fuel stops and quiet side roads, where familiar habits can return.

Cyprus applies separate limits and protective-equipment duties by road user and vehicle: check the applicable speed, alcohol, mobile-phone, helmet and restraint rule before departure. Posted limits and local instructions control the actual journey.

Sources: [2][3]

Use motorway lanes as the police guidance requires

On Republic of Cyprus motorways, police guidance assigns the left lane to normal travel and the right lane to overtaking or another signed situation. Stopping, parking, walking and cycling are prohibited on that road class.

Confirm that the actual vehicle may use the motorway and check Cyprus Police information for incidents before joining it. Lane signals and closures encountered on the road override the planned path.

Sources: [3][1]

Treat Green Line crossings as controlled journey points

The island is divided by the Green Line, and movement between the areas uses designated crossing points. Some crossings are pedestrian-only, so a road itinerary must use a crossing that accepts vehicles.

Entry and crossing rules depend on how and where the traveller entered Cyprus. Check the current official crossing and entry requirements before selecting a through-route; a map line is not evidence that the vehicle may cross.

Sources: [4]

Confirm rental permission and territorial insurance cover

Cars hired in the Republic-controlled areas often have no insurance cover in the north. Obtain the rental company's permission and confirm the policy in writing; without the correct insurance documents the vehicle may not be allowed through a crossing.

Insurance for the north may be available at some crossing points, but it does not automatically extend the rental contract or replace cover for damage to the hired vehicle. Never leave a passport as a rental deposit.

Sources: [5][3]

Keep island access separate from the road calculation

Cyprus cannot be reached from another country by a continuous road. Any air or sea arrival, vehicle shipment and port formalities are separate from the on-island road route.

If bringing a vehicle, confirm customs, registration, insurance and the transport operator's requirements before booking. Republic of Cyprus guidance must also be checked for the authorised point of vehicle entry.

Sources: [4][6]

Before driving in Cyprus

• Confirm the licence, registration, rental agreement and insurance for every intended area of the journey.
• Set a keep-left reminder and review local motorway practice before departure.
• Check that the chosen Green Line crossing accepts vehicles and that the documents permit it.
• Call 112 for urgent ambulance, police or fire assistance; Cyprus Police guidance also identifies 199.

Sources: [6][3][4][5][7]