Iceland Motorcycle Theory Test cheat sheet
Iceland Motorcycle Theory Test · Keep the key ideas within reach.
Traffic law and road traffic regulations (umferðarlög og reglugerðir)
The Icelandic Road Traffic Act (umferðarlög) applies to all traffic on roads open to public use, including riders of motorcycles, mopeds and three-wheeled vehicles; private tracks and closed areas are outside its scope.
A category A licence (motorcycle) requires a minimum age of 20 for unrestricted A; A2 (max 35 kW) from 18 and A1 (max 11 kW, max 125 cm³) from 16, each with a passed theory and practical test.
Holding a licence carries a duty to carry it while riding and to hand it to police on request; failure to do so is a separate offence from the underlying violation.
Mandatory third-party liability insurance (lögboðin ábyrgðartrygging) is required for every registered motorcycle; riding uninsured can lead to impoundment and a claim from the state guarantee fund.
A motorcycle must be registered and have a valid periodic inspection (skoðun) when due; the inspection sticker or registration document shows validity.
The rider is responsible for the vehicle's condition and for all passengers; a passenger may not be carried unless the motorcycle is built and equipped for two people.
Traffic offences are recorded in the driver's record; repeated or serious offences can lead to licence suspension (svipting) and a new test requirement.
A rider must obey instructions from police officers directing traffic, even when those instructions contradict signs or signals.
Road signs, signals and markings (umferðarmerki, ljós og merkingar)
Sign categories: warning signs (triangle, red border, yellow background in Iceland), regulatory signs (circle, red border = prohibition; blue circle = mandatory), and information/direction signs (blue or green rectangles).
A yellow diamond-shaped sign marks a priority road; a yellow triangle with a black cross or a 'give way' sign means the rider must yield to traffic on the crossing road.
Traffic lights: red = stop before the stop line; yellow = stop unless stopping is unsafe; green = proceed only if the exit is clear; a flashing yellow means the signal is out of order and normal priority rules apply.
A flashing red light at a level crossing or a lowered barrier requires a full stop; never pass a barrier while it is moving or down.
Solid white centre lines prohibit crossing; broken lines may be crossed when safe; double solid lines mean no overtaking in either direction.
Stop line and give-way line markings define where the rider must stop; a stop sign always requires a complete stop even if the road appears clear.
Direction arrows painted in a lane bind the rider to that direction; changing lane after entering a turn-only lane is an offence.
A blue circular sign with a motorcycle means a route or lane reserved for motorcycles; a red-bordered circle with a motorcycle means motorcycles are prohibited.
Right-of-way, intersections and priority rules (forgangur og gatnamót)
Default rule: at an unmarked intersection the rider must yield to traffic approaching from the right (hægri reglan), unless signs or signals say otherwise.
Turning left across oncoming traffic: the turning rider must yield to oncoming vehicles going straight or turning right.
A rider leaving a private road, driveway, petrol station or parking area must yield to all traffic on the road being entered.
When entering a roundabout, yield to traffic already circulating; a vehicle already in the roundabout has priority unless signs indicate otherwise.
A vehicle turning left and a vehicle turning right into the same road: the right-turning vehicle has priority over the left-turning one.
Buses leaving a marked stop in built-up areas may have priority; riders should anticipate the indicator and yield where the law requires.
Emergency vehicles with blue lights and sirens have priority; the rider must clear the way and may only proceed past a red light if a police officer directs it.
At a T-junction, the road that ends must yield to the through road unless signs state otherwise.
Vehicle knowledge, controls and technical requirements for motorcycles (bifhjól: tæki, búnaður og stjórn)
Primary controls: right hand operates the front brake and throttle; left hand operates the clutch; right foot operates the rear brake; left foot operates the gear lever (1 down, rest up on most bikes).
The front brake provides most stopping power because weight transfers forward; use both brakes together and apply the front progressively to avoid locking the wheel.
Countersteering: above roughly walking pace, pushing the right bar forward leans the bike right and initiates a right turn; pulling the left bar has the same effect.
Tyre condition matters more than on a car: check tread depth, pressure when cold, and sidewall cracks; under-inflation causes overheating and poor cornering.
A motorcycle must have working front and rear brakes, a horn, a speedometer, a rear-view mirror on each side (or as required), and a white front and red rear light.
Chain or belt drive should be checked for correct slack and lubrication; a worn chain can jump the sprocket and lock the rear wheel.
Steering-head bearings, fork seals and brake fluid level are pre-ride checks; a spongy brake lever indicates air in the system or low fluid.
Headlights must be used at all times while riding; daytime running lights or a dipped beam improve being seen by other road users.
Safe riding technique, hazard perception and defensive riding (akstursaðferð og hættumat)
Position in the lane to maximise sight distance and escape routes: ride in the tyre track of the vehicle ahead, not directly behind it, and avoid the centre line where oil collects.
The 'lifesaver' check: a shoulder glance before changing lane or turning, because mirrors have blind spots that can hide a car or another motorcycle.
Cornering: slow in, look through the bend to the exit, and accelerate gently once the bike is upright; braking hard while leaned over reduces grip.
Target fixation: look where you want to go, not at the hazard; staring at a pothole or a car tends to steer the bike toward it.
Gravel, wet paint, tram rails, metal drain covers and cow dung on Icelandic rural roads reduce grip sharply; cross them as upright as possible with steady throttle.
In strong crosswinds, especially on bridges and open stretches, reduce speed and expect gusts when passing trucks or leaving shelter.
Assume other drivers have not seen you: a motorcycle's narrow profile makes it easy to miss at junctions; make eye contact and have a plan before entering.
Riding in a group: keep a staggered formation on straights, single file in bends, and leave a gap so each rider can use the full lane if needed.
Speed limits, following distance and stopping (hraði, fjarlægð og hemlun)
General limits in Iceland: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on paved rural roads unless signs state otherwise.
The rider must always be able to stop within the distance they can see to be clear; this overrides the posted limit in fog, rain, darkness or on a crest.
Two-second rule: pick a fixed object and count two seconds after the vehicle ahead passes it; double to four seconds in rain, gravel or darkness.
Stopping distance grows with the square of speed: doubling speed roughly quadruples the braking distance, so 90 km/h needs far more than twice the distance of 45 km/h.
Reaction distance at 90 km/h is about 25 m for a one-second reaction time; total stopping distance adds braking distance on top of that.
On gravel, braking distance can double or more; reduce speed before the surface changes and brake earlier and more gently.
Speed limits are maximums, not targets; a lower speed is required where pedestrians, animals, roadworks or tight bends create risk.
Overtaking requires a clear view, a broken line, and enough distance to return to the lane; never overtake at a crest, bend, junction or pedestrian crossing.
Alcohol, drugs, medication, fatigue and fitness to ride (áfengi, fíkniefni, lyf og þreyta)
The legal blood-alcohol limit in Iceland is 0.02% (20 mg per 100 ml of blood), effectively zero tolerance; even one drink can exceed it.
Refusing a breath or blood test is treated as a serious offence and carries the same or heavier penalties than driving over the limit.
Alcohol impairs balance, reaction time and risk perception before the rider feels drunk; riding a motorcycle demands more balance than driving a car.
Prescription and over-the-counter medicines can cause drowsiness or slow reactions; check the label and ask a pharmacist before riding.
Illegal drugs and driving under their influence lead to licence suspension, fines and possible imprisonment, regardless of amount.
Fatigue signs: heavy eyelids, wandering attention, missed signs, yawning and lane drift; the only remedy is to stop and rest, not to open the visor or drink coffee.
Riding when ill, injured or exhausted is an offence if it makes the rider unfit to control the vehicle safely.
After long rides, take a break at least every two hours; dehydration and cold on an open motorcycle accelerate fatigue.
Accidents, first aid and emergency procedures (slys, skyndihjálp og neyðaraðgerðir)
Emergency number in Iceland is 112; give location, number of casualties, and whether anyone is trapped or bleeding.
Scene safety first: switch off engines, warn traffic with a triangle or hazard lights, and wear high-visibility clothing before approaching casualties.
Do not remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless the airway is blocked; removing it can worsen a neck or spine injury.
Check airway, breathing and circulation; start CPR (30 compressions to 2 breaths) if the casualty is not breathing normally, and use an AED if available.
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure and, if needed, a tourniquet above the wound; note the time applied.
Keep casualties warm with a blanket or jacket, treat for shock, and do not give food or drink.
Report the accident to police if anyone is injured or there is significant property damage; exchange names, insurance details and registration numbers.
A rider involved in a crash must stop, render assistance and remain at the scene until it is lawful to leave.
Protective equipment, clothing and carrying passengers or loads (hlífar, fatnaður og farmur)
A helmet is mandatory for both rider and passenger; it must be the correct size, fastened, and undamaged; a helmet that has taken an impact should be replaced.
Protective clothing: abrasion-resistant jacket and trousers, gloves, boots covering the ankle, and eye protection or a visor; bright or reflective colours improve conspicuity.
A passenger must sit facing forward on a proper pillion seat with footrests, hold on to the rider or a grab rail, and keep feet on the pegs.
A learner or rider with a provisional licence may not carry a passenger in many cases; check the licence conditions before riding two-up.
Loads must be securely fastened, must not obstruct lights, mirrors, steering or the rider's view, and must not exceed the manufacturer's load limit.
Load weight changes handling: adjust tyre pressure and suspension preload, brake earlier, and expect slower steering.
Carrying a load on the tank or handlebars is dangerous; keep weight low and centred, and balance luggage evenly on both sides.
Children may only be carried if they can reach the footrests and hold on securely; a child seat or proper restraint is required where fitted.
Traffic law and road traffic regulations (umferðarlög og reglugerðir)
Motorcycles must be ridden with both hands on the handlebars except when signalling; riding with one hand for other purposes is an offence.
Overtaking is prohibited at pedestrian crossings, at junctions unless the vehicle ahead is turning, and where a solid line separates the lanes.
Using a mobile phone while riding is prohibited unless it is hands-free and does not distract the rider.
The rider must give way to pedestrians on a zebra crossing and to pedestrians already on the road when turning into a side road.
Registration plates must be visible and legible; obscuring or altering them is an offence.
Riders must not ride on pavements, footpaths or cycle paths unless signs permit it, and must not tow another vehicle.
A motorcycle may not be left parked where it obstructs traffic, a crossing or a fire hydrant; parking rules apply as for cars.
Injuries and damage caused by a motorcycle must be reported to the owner and, where required, to police; leaving the scene of a collision is an offence.
Road signs, signals and markings (umferðarmerki, ljós og merkingar)
Warning signs in Iceland are triangles with a yellow background and red border; they warn of bends, slippery roads, livestock, roadworks and junctions ahead.
A red-bordered circle with a number is a maximum speed limit; a blue circle with a number is a minimum speed or recommended speed, not a limit.
A 'no entry' sign is a red circle with a white horizontal bar; a 'stop' sign is an octagon with white text on red and requires a full stop.
Yellow zigzag or hatched markings mark areas not to be entered, such as bus stops or approach hatching before a junction.
Broken white lines along the edge mark the carriageway edge; a solid line means do not cross.
Direction signs on rural roads are typically yellow with black text for local destinations; green signs mark longer-distance routes.
A sign showing a motorcycle in a red circle prohibits motorcycles; a blue circle with a motorcycle indicates a route for motorcycles only.
Temporary roadworks signs (yellow background, red border) override permanent signs and must be obeyed.
Right-of-way, intersections and priority rules (forgangur og gatnamót)
At an intersection with a stop sign, a full stop is required at the line; at a give-way sign, the rider must yield but need not stop if the way is clear.
A priority road sign (yellow diamond) means the rider has right of way over traffic on crossing roads until a sign cancels it.
When two vehicles approach from opposite directions and both turn into the same road, the one turning right has priority.
A rider entering a roundabout must give way to circulating traffic; signal right on exit and left on entry where required by local practice.
A vehicle already in a junction has priority over one entering it; do not block the junction if the exit is not clear.
Where a traffic officer directs traffic, the officer's signals override signs and lights.
At an uncontrolled junction, yield to the right; if the road is too narrow for two vehicles, the one with the obstacle on its side yields.
Reversing vehicles must yield to all other traffic; a rider should not assume a reversing car has seen them.
Vehicle knowledge, controls and technical requirements for motorcycles (bifhjól: tæki, búnaður og stjórn)
Pre-ride check (often remembered as POWDER or T-CLOCS): tyres, controls, lights, oil, chain, and stands; a two-minute check prevents most breakdowns.
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time; replace it at the manufacturer's interval and never mix DOT grades.
A cold tyre has less grip; the first few kilometres should be ridden gently to warm the tyres before pushing cornering speed.
The side stand should retract or be up before riding; a stand-down sensor or a habit of checking prevents a dangerous left-hand fall.
Suspension settings (preload, damping) should match load; too soft a rear spring makes the bike wallow in fast bends.
A worn front tyre causes vague steering and increased stopping distance; check tread depth and replace before the legal minimum.
Battery and charging system: a weak battery can cause the lights to dim and the engine to cut out at low revs, especially on older bikes.
Mirrors must be adjusted before riding, not while moving; a glance over the shoulder complements the mirror check.
Safe riding technique, hazard perception and defensive riding (akstursaðferð og hættumat)
The system of motorcycle control (IPSGA): Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration; apply it to every bend and hazard.
Brake before the bend, not in it; trail braking into a corner reduces the tyre's reserve grip for cornering.
Look at least two or three seconds ahead and scan for driveways, side roads and parked cars where doors may open.
Overtaking a line of traffic: watch for vehicles pulling out, and never overtake on the approach to a junction or crossing.
At night, reduce speed so you can stop within the illuminated distance; a dipped beam shows less than the bike can cover at speed.
In rain, the first minutes are the most slippery as oil lifts from the surface; allow extra distance and avoid painted lines and manhole covers.
When following a large vehicle, stay back so the driver can see you in the mirrors and so you can see past the vehicle.
Animals on or near the road in rural Iceland are a common hazard; slow down, do not swerve sharply, and be ready to stop.
Speed limits, following distance and stopping (hraði, fjarlægð og hemlun)
Speed limits are posted in km/h; a rider must not exceed the limit and must reduce speed where conditions require it.
A safe following distance in good conditions is at least two seconds; in rain, gravel or darkness, use four seconds or more.
Braking distance is proportional to the square of speed; at 50 km/h a bike needs roughly 13 m of braking on dry tarmac, at 100 km/h about 50 m.
Total stopping distance = reaction distance + braking distance; reaction distance at 90 km/h with a one-second reaction is about 25 m.
On wet roads, braking distance can double; on ice it can increase many times over, so speed must drop sharply.
Engine braking helps on long descents; use a lower gear to avoid overheating the brakes.
Speed cameras and average-speed enforcement exist in Iceland; penalties rise with the amount over the limit.
In strong wind or on gravel, reduce speed below the posted limit to keep a safe margin for error.
Alcohol, drugs, medication, fatigue and fitness to ride (áfengi, fíkniefni, lyf og þreyta)
The Icelandic limit is 0.02% BAC; for most people this means no alcohol at all before riding.
Alcohol is eliminated at roughly 0.015% per hour; coffee, food or a cold shower do not speed this up.
Police may require a breath test without suspicion at checkpoints; refusal is an offence.
Many medicines carry a warning triangle on the packet; if it warns of drowsiness, do not ride until you know how it affects you.
Cannabis and other drugs impair coordination and judgement for hours after the last dose, even if the rider feels normal.
Fatigue is a major cause of single-vehicle motorcycle crashes; plan breaks and stop at the first sign of tiredness.
Riding while injured, ill or emotionally upset reduces concentration; a rider who is unfit to ride commits an offence.
Cold and dehydration on an open motorcycle speed up fatigue; drink water and wear windproof layers.
Accidents, first aid and emergency procedures (slys, skyndihjálp og neyðaraðgerðir)
Call 112 for emergencies in Iceland; give the road number, kilometre marker or nearest farm or town.
Make the scene safe: warn traffic, switch off engines, and do not move an injured rider unless there is immediate danger such as fire.
Check responsiveness, airway and breathing; if the casualty is not breathing normally, start CPR and send for an AED.
Do not remove a helmet unless the airway is blocked; support the head and neck and wait for trained help.
Control bleeding with direct pressure; use a clean cloth or dressing and, if severe, a tourniquet above the wound.
Treat for shock: keep the casualty warm, lying down, and reassure them; do not give food or drink.
Exchange details with other parties and report the crash to police if anyone is injured or there is significant damage.
A rider involved in a crash must stop and help; failing to stop is a serious offence.
Protective equipment, clothing and carrying passengers or loads (hlífar, fatnaður og farmur)
A helmet must be worn and fastened by both rider and passenger; it should fit snugly and carry a recognised safety marking.
Replace a helmet after a crash or a drop onto a hard surface, even if no damage is visible.
Protective clothing should cover the whole body: jacket, trousers, gloves, boots and eye protection; abrasion injuries are common in motorcycle crashes.
A passenger must sit on a proper seat with footrests, face forward and hold on; the rider must adjust tyre pressure and suspension for the extra load.
Loads must be secure, must not obstruct lights, mirrors or steering, and must stay within the manufacturer's weight limit.
Keep luggage low and balanced; a top-heavy load makes the bike unstable in bends and in wind.
Children may only be carried if they can reach the footrests and hold on securely.
High-visibility clothing and a bright helmet improve being seen, especially in low sun or rain.
Traffic law and road traffic regulations (umferðarlög og reglugerðir)
A motorcycle rider must not carry a passenger unless the bike is registered and equipped for two people, with a proper seat and footrests.
Riders must use indicators when turning or changing lane and must cancel them afterwards; failure to signal is an offence.
At night or in poor visibility, lights must be used; a motorcycle must have a white front light and a red rear light.
The rider must not ride between lanes of moving traffic (lane splitting) where it is prohibited; check local rules before filtering.
A rider must obey a police instruction to stop and must produce licence, insurance and registration documents when asked.
Riding a motorcycle without a valid licence or insurance can lead to a fine, impoundment and a ban.
The registered owner is responsible for keeping the vehicle roadworthy and for presenting it for inspection when due.
Any change to a motorcycle that affects its construction or performance may require approval and re-registration.
Road signs, signals and markings (umferðarmerki, ljós og merkingar)
A yellow diamond priority sign gives right of way; a yellow triangle with a black cross or a give-way sign means yield.
Red-bordered circles prohibit; blue circles require; triangles warn; rectangles inform.
A flashing yellow at a signal means the lights are out of order; normal priority rules apply and the rider must proceed with caution.
A solid white line must not be crossed; a broken line may be crossed when safe.
A stop line is a solid white line across the lane; the rider must stop before it at a stop sign or red light.
Hatched areas bounded by solid lines must not be entered; those bounded by broken lines may be entered if safe.
A red circle with a motorcycle means no motorcycles; a blue circle with a motorcycle means motorcycles only.
Temporary signs and markings for roadworks take priority over permanent ones.
Right-of-way, intersections and priority rules (forgangur og gatnamót)
At an unmarked junction, yield to traffic from the right; this is the default rule in Iceland.
A give-way sign means yield to traffic on the priority road; a stop sign means stop completely before yielding.
When turning left, yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
When entering a roundabout, yield to traffic already circulating; signal right to exit.
A vehicle leaving a private road, car park or petrol station must yield to all traffic on the road.
A vehicle already in a junction has priority; do not enter if the exit is blocked.
A traffic officer's signals override signs and lights.
Reversing vehicles must yield to all other traffic, including motorcycles.
Vehicle knowledge, controls and technical requirements for motorcycles (bifhjól: tæki, búnaður og stjórn)
Right hand: throttle and front brake; left hand: clutch; right foot: rear brake; left foot: gear lever.
The front brake gives most stopping power; apply it progressively as weight transfers forward.
Countersteering initiates turns above walking pace: push the right bar to lean right.
Check tyre pressure when cold, tread depth and sidewall condition before every ride.
A motorcycle must have working brakes, lights, horn, speedometer and mirrors; headlights must be used at all times.
Chain slack and lubrication should be checked regularly; a worn chain can lock the rear wheel.
A spongy brake lever means air or low fluid; bleed the brakes before riding.
Adjust suspension preload and tyre pressure for the load being carried.
Safe riding technique, hazard perception and defensive riding (akstursaðferð og hættumat)
Use the IPSGA system: Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration.
Brake before the bend; accelerate gently once upright and through the exit.
Look where you want to go; target fixation steers the bike toward the hazard.
Do a lifesaver shoulder check before changing lane or turning; mirrors have blind spots.
Gravel, wet paint, tram rails and manhole covers reduce grip; cross them upright with steady throttle.
In crosswinds, reduce speed and expect gusts when passing trucks or leaving shelter.
Assume other drivers have not seen you; make eye contact and plan before entering a junction.
In a group, ride staggered on straights and single file in bends, leaving room for escape.
Speed limits, following distance and stopping (hraði, fjarlægð og hemlun)
General limits: 50 km/h built-up, 80 km/h gravel, 90 km/h paved rural, unless signs say otherwise.
Ride so you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear; this overrides the posted limit.
Use the two-second rule in good conditions; four seconds in rain, gravel or darkness.
Braking distance grows with the square of speed; doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance.
Reaction distance at 90 km/h with a one-second reaction is about 25 m.
On gravel or wet roads, braking distance can double or more; reduce speed before the surface changes.
Speed limits are maximums; lower speeds are required near pedestrians, animals, roadworks and tight bends.
Never overtake at a crest, bend, junction or pedestrian crossing.
Alcohol, drugs, medication, fatigue and fitness to ride (áfengi, fíkniefni, lyf og þreyta)
The Icelandic blood-alcohol limit is 0.02%, effectively zero tolerance.
Alcohol is eliminated at about 0.015% per hour; coffee, food and showers do not speed it up.
Refusing a breath or blood test is an offence with serious penalties.
Medicines with a warning triangle may cause drowsiness; check before riding.
Illegal drugs impair coordination for hours after the last dose.
Fatigue signs include yawning, lane drift and missed signs; the only remedy is to stop and rest.
Riding while ill, injured or exhausted is an offence if it makes you unfit to control the bike.
Take a break at least every two hours; cold and dehydration speed up fatigue on a motorcycle.
Accidents, first aid and emergency procedures (slys, skyndihjálp og neyðaraðgerðir)
Call 112; give location, number of casualties and whether anyone is trapped.
Make the scene safe: warn traffic, switch off engines, wear high-visibility clothing.
Do not remove a helmet unless the airway is blocked; support the head and neck.
Check airway, breathing and circulation; start CPR (30:2) if the casualty is not breathing normally.
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure and, if needed, a tourniquet; note the time.
Keep casualties warm and treat for shock; do not give food or drink.
Report the crash to police if anyone is injured or there is significant damage; exchange details.
A rider involved in a crash must stop, help and remain at the scene until it is lawful to leave.
Protective equipment, clothing and carrying passengers or loads (hlífar, fatnaður og farmur)
A helmet is mandatory for rider and passenger; it must fit, be fastened and be undamaged.
Replace a helmet after a crash or a hard drop, even if no damage is visible.
Wear abrasion-resistant jacket and trousers, gloves, boots and eye protection.
A passenger must sit on a proper seat with footrests, face forward and hold on; adjust tyre pressure and suspension.
Loads must be secure, must not obstruct lights, mirrors or steering, and must stay within the weight limit.
Keep luggage low and balanced; a top-heavy load makes the bike unstable.
Children may only be carried if they can reach the footrests and hold on securely.
Bright or reflective clothing and a bright helmet improve being seen in low sun and rain.
Traffic law and road traffic regulations (umferðarlög og reglugerðir)
A motorcycle must have mandatory third-party insurance; riding uninsured can lead to impoundment.
The rider must carry a licence and produce it to police on request.
Motorcycles must pass periodic inspection when due; the owner is responsible.
Indicators must be used for turns and lane changes and cancelled afterwards.
Lane splitting is prohibited where local rules forbid it; check before filtering.
Registration plates must be visible and legible.
Riders must not ride on pavements or cycle paths unless signs permit it.
Leaving the scene of a collision is an offence.
Road signs, signals and markings (umferðarmerki, ljós og merkingar)
Warning signs: triangle with red border and yellow background.
Prohibition signs: red-bordered circle; mandatory signs: blue circle.
A stop sign is an octagon and requires a full stop.
A flashing yellow signal means the lights are out of order; normal priority rules apply.
Solid white lines must not be crossed; broken lines may be crossed when safe.
A stop line is a solid white line; stop before it.
Hatched areas with solid borders must not be entered.
Temporary roadworks signs override permanent ones.
Right-of-way, intersections and priority rules (forgangur og gatnamót)
Default rule at unmarked junctions: yield to the right.
Turning left: yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
Leaving a private road or car park: yield to all traffic on the road.
Entering a roundabout: yield to circulating traffic.
A vehicle already in the junction has priority.
A priority road sign gives right of way until cancelled.
A traffic officer's signals override signs and lights.
Reversing vehicles must yield to all other traffic.
Vehicle knowledge, controls and technical requirements for motorcycles (bifhjól: tæki, búnaður og stjórn)
Right hand: throttle and front brake; left hand: clutch; right foot: rear brake; left foot: gear lever.
The front brake gives most stopping power; apply it progressively.
Countersteering: push the right bar to lean right.
Check tyre pressure cold, tread depth and sidewalls before every ride.
A motorcycle must have working brakes, lights, horn, speedometer and mirrors.
Headlights must be used at all times.
Check chain slack and lubrication regularly.
A spongy brake lever means air or low fluid; bleed the brakes.
Safe riding technique, hazard perception and defensive riding (akstursaðferð og hættumat)
Use IPSGA: Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration.
Brake before the bend; accelerate gently once upright.
Look where you want to go; target fixation steers the bike toward the hazard.
Do a lifesaver shoulder check before changing lane.
Gravel, wet paint and manhole covers reduce grip; cross them upright.
In crosswinds, reduce speed and expect gusts near trucks and bridges.
Assume other drivers have not seen you.
In a group, ride staggered on straights and single file in bends.
Speed limits, following distance and stopping (hraði, fjarlægð og hemlun)
General limits: 50 km/h built-up, 80 km/h gravel, 90 km/h paved rural.
Ride so you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
Two-second rule in good conditions; four seconds in rain, gravel or darkness.
Braking distance grows with the square of speed.
Reaction distance at 90 km/h is about 25 m for a one-second reaction.
On gravel or wet roads, braking distance can double or more.
Speed limits are maximums, not targets.
Never overtake at a crest, bend, junction or pedestrian crossing.
Alcohol, drugs, medication, fatigue and fitness to ride (áfengi, fíkniefni, lyf og þreyta)
The Icelandic blood-alcohol limit is 0.02%, effectively zero tolerance.
Alcohol is eliminated at about 0.015% per hour; coffee and food do not speed it up.
Refusing a breath or blood test is an offence.
Medicines with a warning triangle may cause drowsiness.
Illegal drugs impair coordination for hours after the last dose.
Fatigue signs include yawning, lane drift and missed signs; stop and rest.
Riding while ill or exhausted is an offence if you are unfit to control the bike.
Take a break at least every two hours; cold and dehydration speed up fatigue.
Accidents, first aid and emergency procedures (slys, skyndihjálp og neyðaraðgerðir)
Call 112; give location, number of casualties and whether anyone is trapped.
Make the scene safe: warn traffic, switch off engines.
Do not remove a helmet unless the airway is blocked.
Check airway, breathing and circulation; start CPR (30:2) if not breathing normally.
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure and, if needed, a tourniquet.
Keep casualties warm and treat for shock; do not give food or drink.
Report the crash to police if anyone is injured or there is significant damage.
A rider involved in a crash must stop, help and remain at the scene.
Protective equipment, clothing and carrying passengers or loads (hlífar, fatnaður og farmur)
A helmet is mandatory for rider and passenger; it must fit, be fastened and be undamaged.
Replace a helmet after a crash or a hard drop.
Wear abrasion-resistant jacket and trousers, gloves, boots and eye protection.
A passenger must sit on a proper seat with footrests and hold on.
Adjust tyre pressure and suspension for the extra load.
Loads must be secure and must not obstruct lights, mirrors or steering.
Keep luggage low and balanced.
Children may only be carried if they can reach the footrests and hold on securely.
Traffic law and road traffic regulations (umferðarlög og reglugerðir)
A category A licence requires a minimum age of 20; A2 from 18 and A1 from 16.
The rider must carry the licence and produce it to police on request.
Mandatory third-party insurance is required for every registered motorcycle.
Motorcycles must pass periodic inspection when due.
Indicators must be used and cancelled after a turn or lane change.
Registration plates must be visible and legible.
Riders must not ride on pavements or cycle paths unless signs permit it.
Leaving the scene of a collision is an offence.
Road signs, signals and markings (umferðarmerki, ljós og merkingar)
Warning signs are triangles with a red border and yellow background.
Prohibition signs are red-bordered circles; mandatory signs are blue circles.
A stop sign is an octagon and requires a full stop.
A flashing yellow signal means the lights are out of order.
Solid white lines must not be crossed; broken lines may be crossed when safe.
A stop line is a solid white line; stop before it.
Hatched areas with solid borders must not be entered.
Temporary roadworks signs override permanent ones.
Right-of-way, intersections and priority rules (forgangur og gatnamót)
Default rule at unmarked junctions: yield to the right.
Turning left: yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
Leaving a private road or car park: yield to all traffic on the road.
Entering a roundabout: yield to circulating traffic.
A vehicle already in the junction has priority.
A priority road sign gives right of way until cancelled.
A traffic officer's signals override signs and lights.
Reversing vehicles must yield to all other traffic.
Vehicle knowledge, controls and technical requirements for motorcycles (bifhjól: tæki, búnaður og stjórn)
Right hand: throttle and front brake; left hand: clutch; right foot: rear brake; left foot: gear lever.
The front brake gives most stopping power; apply it progressively.
Countersteering: push the right bar to lean right.
Check tyre pressure cold, tread depth and sidewalls before every ride.
A motorcycle must have working brakes, lights, horn, speedometer and mirrors.
Headlights must be used at all times.
Check chain slack and lubrication regularly.
A spongy brake lever means air or low fluid; bleed the brakes.
Safe riding technique, hazard perception and defensive riding (akstursaðferð og hættumat)
Use IPSGA: Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration.
Brake before the bend; accelerate gently once upright.
Look where you want to go; target fixation steers the bike toward the hazard.
Do a lifesaver shoulder check before changing lane.
Gravel, wet paint and manhole covers reduce grip; cross them upright.
In crosswinds, reduce speed and expect gusts near trucks and bridges.
Assume other drivers have not seen you.
In a group, ride staggered on straights and single file in bends.
Speed limits, following distance and stopping (hraði, fjarlægð og hemlun)
General limits: 50 km/h built-up, 80 km/h gravel, 90 km/h paved rural.
Ride so you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
Two-second rule in good conditions; four seconds in rain, gravel or darkness.
Braking distance grows with the square of speed.
Reaction distance at 90 km/h is about 25 m for a one-second reaction.
On gravel or wet roads, braking distance can double or more.
Speed limits are maximums, not targets.
Never overtake at a crest, bend, junction or pedestrian crossing.
Alcohol, drugs, medication, fatigue and fitness to ride (áfengi, fíkniefni, lyf og þreyta)
The Icelandic blood-alcohol limit is 0.02%, effectively zero tolerance.
Alcohol is eliminated at about 0.015% per hour; coffee and food do not speed it up.
Refusing a breath or blood test is an offence.
Medicines with a warning triangle may cause drowsiness.
Illegal drugs impair coordination for hours after the last dose.
Fatigue signs include yawning, lane drift and missed signs; stop and rest.
Riding while ill or exhausted is an offence if you are unfit to control the bike.
Take a break at least every two hours; cold and dehydration speed up fatigue.
Accidents, first aid and emergency procedures (slys, skyndihjálp og neyðaraðgerðir)
Call 112; give location, number of casualties and whether anyone is trapped.
Make the scene safe: warn traffic, switch off engines.
Do not remove a helmet unless the airway is blocked.
Check airway, breathing and circulation; start CPR (30:2) if not breathing normally.
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure and, if needed, a tourniquet.
Keep casualties warm and treat for shock; do not give food or drink.
Report the crash to police if anyone is injured or there is significant damage.
A rider involved in a crash must stop, help and remain at the scene.
Protective equipment, clothing and carrying passengers or loads (hlífar, fatnaður og farmur)
A helmet is mandatory for rider and passenger; it must fit, be fastened and be undamaged.
Replace a helmet after a crash or a hard drop.
Wear abrasion-resistant jacket and trousers, gloves, boots and eye protection.
A passenger must sit on a proper seat with footrests and hold on.
Adjust tyre pressure and suspension for the extra load.
Loads must be secure and must not obstruct lights, mirrors or steering.
Keep luggage low and balanced.
Children may only be carried if they can reach the footrests and hold on securely.
Traffic law and road traffic regulations (umferðarlög og reglugerðir)
A category A licence requires a minimum age of 20; A2 from 18 and A1 from 16.
The rider must carry the licence and produce it to police on request.
Mandatory third-party insurance is required for every registered motorcycle.
Motorcycles must pass periodic inspection when due.
Indicators must be used and cancelled after a turn or lane change.
Registration plates must be visible and legible.
Riders must not ride on pavements or cycle paths unless signs permit it.
Leaving the scene of a collision is an offence.
Road signs, signals and markings (umferðarmerki, ljós og merkingar)
Warning signs are triangles with a red border and yellow background.
Prohibition signs are red-bordered circles; mandatory signs are blue circles.
A stop sign is an octagon and requires a full stop.
A flashing yellow signal means the lights are out of order.
Solid white lines must not be crossed; broken lines may be crossed when safe.
A stop line is a solid white line; stop before it.
Hatched areas with solid borders must not be entered.
Temporary roadworks signs override permanent ones.
Right-of-way, intersections and priority rules (forgangur og gatnamót)
Default rule at unmarked junctions: yield to the right.
Turning left: yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
Leaving a private road or car park: yield to all traffic on the road.
Entering a roundabout: yield to circulating traffic.
A vehicle already in the junction has priority.
A priority road sign gives right of way until cancelled.
A traffic officer's signals override signs and lights.
Reversing vehicles must yield to all other traffic.
Vehicle knowledge, controls and technical requirements for motorcycles (bifhjól: tæki, búnaður og stjórn)
Right hand: throttle and front brake; left hand: clutch; right foot: rear brake; left foot: gear lever.
The front brake gives most stopping power; apply it progressively.
Countersteering: push the right bar to lean right.
Check tyre pressure cold, tread depth and sidewalls before every ride.
A motorcycle must have working brakes, lights, horn, speedometer and mirrors.
Headlights must be used at all times.
Check chain slack and lubrication regularly.
A spongy brake lever means air or low fluid; bleed the brakes.
Safe riding technique, hazard perception and defensive riding (akstursaðferð og hættumat)
Use IPSGA: Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration.
Brake before the bend; accelerate gently once upright.
Look where you want to go; target fixation steers the bike toward the hazard.
Do a lifesaver shoulder check before changing lane.
Gravel, wet paint and manhole covers reduce grip; cross them upright.
In crosswinds, reduce speed and expect gusts near trucks and bridges.
Assume other drivers have not seen you.
In a group, ride staggered on straights and single file in bends.
Speed limits, following distance and stopping (hraði, fjarlægð og hemlun)
General limits: 50 km/h built-up, 80 km/h gravel, 90 km/h paved rural.
Ride so you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
Two-second rule in good conditions; four seconds in rain, gravel or darkness.
Braking distance grows with the square of speed.
Reaction distance at 90 km/h is about 25 m for a one-second reaction.
On gravel or wet roads, braking distance can double or more.
Speed limits are maximums, not targets.
Never overtake at a crest, bend, junction or pedestrian crossing.
Alcohol, drugs, medication, fatigue and fitness to ride (áfengi, fíkniefni, lyf og þreyta)
The Icelandic blood-alcohol limit is 0.02%, effectively zero tolerance.
Alcohol is eliminated at about 0.015% per hour; coffee and food do not speed it up.
Refusing a breath or blood test is an offence.
Medicines with a warning triangle may cause drowsiness.
Illegal drugs impair coordination for hours after the last dose.
Fatigue signs include yawning, lane drift and missed signs; stop and rest.
Riding while ill or exhausted is an offence if you are unfit to control the bike.
Take a break at least every two hours; cold and dehydration speed up fatigue.
Accidents, first aid and emergency procedures (slys, skyndihjálp og neyðaraðgerðir)
Call 112; give location, number of casualties and whether anyone is trapped.
Make the scene safe: warn traffic, switch off engines.
Do not remove a helmet unless the airway is blocked.
Check airway, breathing and circulation; start CPR (30:2) if not breathing normally.
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure and, if needed, a tourniquet.
Keep casualties warm and treat for shock; do not give food or drink.
Report the crash to police if anyone is injured or there is significant damage.
A rider involved in a crash must stop, help and remain at the scene.
Protective equipment, clothing and carrying passengers or loads (hlífar, fatnaður og farmur)
A helmet is mandatory for rider and passenger; it must fit, be fastened and be undamaged.
Replace a helmet after a crash or a hard drop.
Wear abrasion-resistant jacket and trousers, gloves, boots and eye protection.
A passenger must sit on a proper seat with footrests and hold on.
Adjust tyre pressure and suspension for the extra load.
Loads must be secure and must not obstruct lights, mirrors or steering.
Keep luggage low and balanced.
Children may only be carried if they can reach the footrests and hold on securely.