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Sigríður Björnsdóttir9 min readIceland Driving Test Guide: Theory Exam, Practical Test & What to Expect
Planning to take your driving test in Iceland? This guide covers the theory exam format, practical test requirements, costs, and how long the process takes for both new drivers and those converting foreign licences.
Overview: Getting a Driving Licence in Iceland
Iceland's driving licence system is governed by Samgöngustofa. The full process — medical check, theory course, first aid course, theory exam, practical training, and practical exam — typically takes 3–6 months and costs ISK 375,000–565,000 in total.
Step 1: Medical Certificate
Before starting lessons, you need a medical certificate from a doctor confirming you meet minimum vision and health requirements. EU-standard certificates are accepted.
Step 2: Theory Course (10–14 hours)
A mandatory theory course at a licensed driving school covers Icelandic traffic laws, road signs, and defensive driving. Some schools offer courses in English.
Step 3: First Aid Course (4 hours, mandatory)
Covers basic accident response, CPR, and how to help at a road traffic accident. Cost: approximately ISK 8,000–12,000.
Step 4: Theory Exam — What's on It?
The theory exam has 35 multiple-choice questions. You need 30 correct (86%) to pass. Topics include:
- Icelandic traffic laws and road signs
- Right of way rules
- Speed limits and safe following distance
- Winter and F-road driving rules
- Blood alcohol limit (0.05% in Iceland)
The exam is available in English, Polish, Lithuanian, and several other languages. Fee: ISK 5,000–7,000.
Step 5: Practical Training (minimum 35 hours)
- 20 hours regular driving lessons
- 5 hours slippery road / winter driving at an approved skid pan
- 5 hours motorway driving
- 5 hours night driving
Most students need 40–55 hours before reaching test standard. Cost: ISK 8,000–12,000 per hour.
Step 6: Practical Exam (30–45 minutes)
Takes place on real Reykjavik roads. The examiner assesses vehicle control, junction observation, speed management, roundabout handling, and parking manoeuvres. First-time pass rate: approximately 60–65%.
Converting a Foreign Driving Licence
EU/EEA licences: Exchange without tests — apply at Samgöngustofa with your foreign licence, passport, kennitala, and medical certificate.
Non-EU licences: Theory exam required. Citizens from the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, and countries with reciprocal agreements may skip the practical exam. Check samgongustofa.is for the full list.
Total Cost Breakdown
- Medical certificate: ISK 5,000–10,000
- Theory course: ISK 25,000–40,000
- First aid course: ISK 8,000–12,000
- Theory exam: ISK 5,000–7,000
- Driving lessons (40 hours): ISK 320,000–480,000
- Practical exam: ISK 12,000–15,000
- Total: ISK 375,000–565,000 (approx €2,400–3,600)
Tips for Passing First Time
- Use the official Samgöngustofa practice test app (available in English)
- Focus on Iceland-specific rules: studded tire season, F-road restrictions, right-of-way at unmarked junctions
- Book skid pan training early — slots fill up quickly in October–November
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