Latvia driving guide.

Use dipped headlights or daytime running lights year-round, including during daylight. Seat belts are compulsory. The alcohol limit is 0.05%, reduced to 0.02% for drivers with less than two years’ experience. Cars need winter tyres from December 1 to March 1; these must carry the mountain-and-snowflake symbol and have at least 4 mm tread.

For passenger cars, usual limits are 50 km/h in built-up areas and 90 km/h outside them, unless signs specify otherwise. Residential zones are generally limited to 20 km/h. Some divided roads allow higher speeds, with seasonal changes; follow posted limits and expect both fixed and average-speed cameras.

Ordinary passenger cars do not need a motorway vignette. Latvia’s road-user charge applies to certain goods vehicles, so check the classification if renting a van. Jūrmala has a separate year-round vehicle-entry charge for its special access zone; arrange payment through official channels before entering.

Petrol is labelled benzīns, commonly 95 or 98, and diesel is dīzeļdegviela. Major stations generally accept payment cards, but unattended pumps may require a PIN and place a temporary card hold. Fill up before remote coastal or eastern routes, where stations can be farther apart.

Carry your original driving licence, International Driving Permit, passport, rental agreement and vehicle registration and insurance documents. An IDP does not replace your licence. Rental age and licence-holding requirements vary; confirm permission before crossing into Estonia or Lithuania. Check that the car has a warning triangle, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher and reflective vest. Police may conduct roadside document and breath-alcohol checks.