The rules of the road in Portugal are the same as in other European countries. All traffic circulates on the right and abides by the following speed limits: 50 kph (37 mph) in cities and built up areas, 90 kph (55 mph) on normal roads and a respective minimum and maximum speed of 50 kph and 120kph (75 mph) on motorways. All traffic signals are in accordance with international standards and vehicles approaching from the right have priority, while drivers must give right of way to vehicles already circulating on a roundabout.
The use of a safety belt is compulsory and drivers must always carry a legal identification document, a valid driving licence (with photographs), a car registration document, proof of ownership of the vehicle and a valid insurance certificate. Please note that tolls are payable on most stretches of motorway.
The Automóvel Clube de Portugal (ACP) is the representative body in Portugal of all overseas motoring and touring clubs belonging to the FIA and AIT driving associations. The ACP can provide members of these organisations with assistance, both for drivers and passengers (i.e. medical and legal services) and for their vehicles (towing and breakdown). The emergency call-out department, Pronto Socorro, is a permanent service for accidents or breakdowns in either the southern half of Portugal (Tel: 219 429 103) or in the northern part of the country (Tel: 228 340 001).
In the accident of an accident on a motorway (auto-estrada) or main road, drivers should use the nearest orange-coloured SOS telephone by pressing the button and waiting a few seconds for a reply.