Living in Cyprus and Driving

What an expat or holidaymaker needs to know about driving on the roads of Cyprus

The beautiful Mediterranean waters, incredible sights and easy pace of life are just a few of the major attractions for living in Cyprus.  This island nation is a favourite of holidaymakers, retirees and expatriates alike.  With more than 1.5 million Brits visiting the country a year and some 65,000-plus calling it home, Cyprus is a popular destination.  But, what can potential visitors and residents expect when they forgo the beaches in favour of hitting the open road?

Living in Cyprus and driving is quite an experience!  According to the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the undertaking comes with some major precautions.  Cyprus is, after all, not the UK.  It does not have its roadway system and its strict licensing and driving requirements.  In this article, we’ll explore what you will need to know about driving in Cyprus.

This is especially important information if you plan on living in Cyprus and do not intend to rely solely on foot power or public transportation to get around.  Hold on to your hat though, driving in Cyprus is likely not quite what you’re used to!

Perhaps the most noticeable difference UK drivers will see whilst driving in Cyprus is the presence of checkpoints at areas that separate the north from the south.  Whilst the partial restriction removal of “Green Line” crossing will enable you to travel between the two areas, it is essential to have your passport handy when hopping the line is the plan.  If the car in use is one you’ve hired, do make sure the proper insurance is in place.  Also, keep in mind that certain goods cannot be brought through the checkpoint from the north into the south.  For example, the Republic of Cyprus will only allow 40 cigarettes per person when crossing in from the north.

Now, on the basics of getting around, you’ll find your UK driving licence will get you out on the road.  If you intend to live in Cyprus though you will want to look into local licensing requirements, however.  The driving privilege extension for UK citizens is only for short-term stays and holidaymakers.

The actual Cypriot driving laws are very similar to the UK’s.  Driving here is on the left side of the road and basic rules for safety are the same.  Do pay heed to restraint laws.  Cyprus imposes rather steep fines for driving without a seat belt or failure to use a helmet on a motorbike.  Also, do not talk on a mobile phone whilst driving or even consider drink driving.  The penalties for both can be incredibly high on both sides of the Green Line.

Driving in Cyprus is filled with potential pitfalls.  The roadway conditions and the driving skills are not quite what most UK residents are used to.  The fatality reports for Cyprus regarding road deaths are quite high.  The country experienced 13.6 deaths per 100,000 in population in 2005.  The UK averages about 5.5 per 100,000.

Living in Cyprus is an experience many adore.  Driving in Cyprus however does come with some quirks!  Pay heed to local laws, avoid areas where roadway conditions are particularly poor and do keep an eye out for hazards.  Chances are you’ll be very glad you did!