Good to know: The Canary Islands follow Spain’s national road rules. Distances are short, terrain can be mountainous and windy, and there are no toll roads on the islands.
Roads on the main islands are generally well maintained. Expect coastal motorways, scenic mountain routes (e.g. Teide on Tenerife), volcanic landscapes and occasional strong crosswinds. Plan extra time for viewpoints and rural roads.
At a Glance
- ✅ Seatbelts: mandatory for all
- 📵 Mobile phone while driving: prohibited
- 🍺 Alcohol limit: 0.5 g/l (0.3 g/l for novice/pro drivers)
- 🧒 Child seats: EU-approved restraints required
- 🛣️ Tolls: none across the islands
- 📞 Emergency: 112
Driving Rules
Essentials
- Drive on the right; overtake on the left.
- Seatbelts are compulsory for driver and all passengers.
- Alcohol limit: 0.5 g/l (0.3 g/l for novice drivers & professionals).
- Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal (heavy fines).
- Radar/laser warning devices are illegal (even if not switched on).
Mountain & Coastal Roads
- Expect steep climbs/descents and tight bends; use engine braking downhill.
- Beware of wind gusts and sudden fog at altitude.
- Allow overtaking space for local buses and cyclists.
Child Safety & Breakdowns
- Children under 12 (or under 135 cm) must be in appropriate child seats and not in the front (unless exceptions apply per EU rules).
- Breakdown: hazard lights on, wear a hi-vis vest before exiting, place the warning triangle, and call roadside assistance.
- Accidents: call the police and do not accept informal settlements without authorities.
Documents You'll Need
- Passport/ID
- Valid driving licence (IDP may be required depending on issuing country/script)
- Rental agreement, insurance & roadside assistance details
Speed Limits (Spain & Canary Islands)
General rules (unless otherwise signed):
| Road Type | Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Urban streets | 30 km/h one lane per direction
50 km/h multi-lane |
Some shared streets as low as 20 km/h. |
| Conventional roads (non-motorway) | 90 km/h | Lower limits common on mountain/coastal sections. |
| Motorways / Autovías | 120 km/h | Islands often have shorter stretches; follow local signs. |
Speed checks via fixed/mobile cameras and unmarked police vehicles are common.
Roundabouts
- Traffic inside the roundabout has priority.
- Right/outside lane for the next exit or straight ahead (unless signs say otherwise).
- Inner lane for left turns/U-turns; move to the outside lane before your exit and indicate right to leave.
- Always indicate when changing lanes and when exiting.
Parking
- Do not park within 5 m of junctions or across driveways.
- Blue zones (Zona Azul) in towns require a ticket/time disc.
- Disabled bays require a valid permit displayed clearly.
- Fines issued during your rental may be forwarded to your home address; pay promptly to avoid admin fees.
Minimum Age to Drive & Rent
- To drive: 18+
- To rent: typically 21–23+ (some firms 25+)
- Under 23–25: usually possible with a young driver surcharge
Insurance: Third-party cover is standard. Consider full cover / zero excess for extra peace of mind.
Safety Reminders
- Use headlights in low visibility; keep greater distances on wet or windy roads.
- Never stop on the carriageway in tunnels; use emergency bays if needed.
- Fuel: unleaded petrol (gasolina sin plomo) and diesel (diésel) widely available; check the cap label.
Tolls
There are no toll roads in the Canary Islands.
In Case of Emergency
European emergency number: 112
- Accidents: call 112 and follow operator guidance.
- Breakdown: stop safely, wear hi-vis, place warning triangle, call your roadside assistance number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Main roads are well maintained. Take extra care on mountain routes, in strong winds and when visibility drops. Use engine braking downhill and allow extra time.
Bring a valid licence. Some rental firms may request an IDP depending on your issuing country and licence script. Check with your hire company before booking to avoid surprises.
Urban: 30 km/h (single-lane) or 50 km/h (multi-lane); Conventional roads: 90 km/h; Motorways/Autovías: 120 km/h — unless local signs set a lower limit.
No — the Canary Islands have no toll roads.
Note: Always follow local signs and your rental agreement. Rules and enforcement can vary by municipality.