Driving rules in Lithuania have their own peculiarities, so before planning a road trip, it is worth learning about them so as not to endanger yourself and other road users. Find out the most important things about the main differences in traffic rules, toll roads and fines, and how drivers face violations

Insurance policy Green card for traveling abroad by car

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Lithuania, which is one of the most developed countries in Eastern Europe, is known not only for its cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, but also for its high level of road safety. For drivers planning to travel in Lithuania, it is important to familiarize yourself with the traffic rules, penalties and other nuances in order not to endanger yourself and other road users. Below, we will look at the main aspects that are worth considering to make your trip safe and comfortable.

The main features of Lithuanian traffic rules

1. In Lithuania, right-hand traffic is used.

2. The car must have a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, an emergency stop sign and a reflective vest.

3. The maximum permissible level of alcohol in the driver's blood is 0.4 ppm. For new drivers and those under the age of 21, the maximum permissible level is 0.0 ppm.

4. Talking on the phone while driving is prohibited

5. Drivers and all passengers must always wear seat belts - this is mandatory for the front and rear seats.

6. For children under the age of 12, the use of child seats or boosters is mandatory.

7. Dipped headlights must be on 24 hours a day throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.

8. From November 10 to March 31, the use of winter tires is mandatory. Studded tires are allowed only from November 1 to April 9, and chains are allowed only when driving on snow or ice.

9. Public transport in Lithuania has priority, so drivers of passenger vehicles are obliged to give way and are not allowed to overtake buses, trams and other vehicles when they stop for boarding and disembarking passengers.

Please note! Violation of these and other traffic rules is subject to fines. In some cases, drivers risk not only losing their finances, but also being deprived of the right to drive. For example, a driver who fails to stop before a pedestrian crossing and runs a red light may be deprived of his or her license for 1-6 months. And drivers who have recently received a driver's license may be deprived of their license for 12 months for exceeding the speed limit by 30-40 km/h. 

At the same time, driving under the influence of alcohol (when the percentage of ppm in the blood exceeds the legal limit) is punishable by the highest penalties, especially if the driver endangered other road users or got into an accident. In such cases, the fine will reach several thousand euros, and the driver's license will be taken away for 3-5 years.

Speed limits 

For cars and motorcycles:

– within settlements - 50 km/h;

– outside settlements - 90 km/h

– roads - 120 km/h

– highways - 60 km/h - minimum speed, 130 km/h - maximum speed.

For vehicles with a trailer:

– within settlements - 50 km/h

– outside settlements - 90 km/h

– roads - 90 km/h

– highways: 60 km/h - minimum speed, 90 km/h - maximum speed.

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Toll roads in Lithuania

Toll roads in Lithuania are only available for trucks and buses. Cars and motorcycles are free of charge. However, the country has a special system of vehicle categorization:

➤ L (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7) - mopeds, motorcycles, ATVs;

➤ M (M1, M2, M3):

– M1 - passenger cars with up to 8 seats (excluding the driver's seat);

– M2, M3 - vehicles with more than 8 passenger seats (such as Mercedes Sprinter);

➤ N (N1, N2, N3):

– N1 - vehicles with a weight of up to 3.5 tons intended for the transportation of goods (such as Renault Master);

– N2, N3 - vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tons intended for the transportation of goods.

Thus, only L and M1 categories of vehicles don't have to pay tolls on toll roads. For the rest of the categories of cars, the toll will be charged. You can purchase a vignette for traveling on toll roads online on the official website.

Mandatory documents and insurance for entering Lithuania by car

To enter the country you must have:

– an international passport;

– driver's license;

– vehicle registration documents;

– international insurance policy "Green Card".

If any of these documents are missing, the person will not be allowed to cross the border. At the same time, in the absence of mandatory international insurance, the driver may be fined. 

You can apply for a Green Card quickly and easily on the Visit Ukraine portal. Follow the link and apply for an insurance policy for the required period in just a couple of minutes. The finished insurance will be sent to your email immediately.

We have described in detail how to prepare a car for a trip abroad in this article.

Photo: D. Umbraso / LRT nuotr.