Vehicle knowledge, technical condition and equipment
Condition checks
- Tyres: minimum tread depth 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters; check pressure cold. Winter tyres are strongly recommended from October to April.
- Studded tyres may be used from 1 November to 30 April.
- Lights: dipped headlights must work and be used at all times, day and night.
- Brakes, steering, suspension and exhaust must be in order; a defective vehicle must not be driven.
- Warning triangle must be carried.
- Periodic inspection (bifreiðaskoðun) is required; a car with an expired inspection is not legal to drive.
Equipment
Carry a reflective vest, a torch and, in winter, a shovel and warm clothing. These are practical rather than always statutory, but exam items on winter equipment expect them.
Worked example
Your tyre has 1.5 mm of tread in the centre. It is illegal, even though the edges look fine. Replace it before driving; a fine and a failed inspection follow otherwise.
Traps
Thinking 1.6 mm applies only to the outer edge; assuming winter tyres are mandatory (they are not, but studs are seasonal); forgetting the all-day lights rule; driving with an expired inspection.