Turkish roads have improved to a significant degree in recent years, says Frommer’s, as government money funds new highways and infrastructure. Hiring a car provides the freedom to see Turkey on your own terms, but bear in mind that parking is often in short supply in such as Istanbul and Ankara, and many urban centers have begun to implement one-way systems, making navigation challenging.
Documents
- Your United State-issued driver’s license remains valid to drive in Turkey, as long as your intended stay in the country is less than one year. If you’ll be in Turkey for fewer than 90 days, you just need your U.S. license, but once you stay over that period, you should carry a notarized Turkish-language translation. After one year in Turkey, the law requires that you obtain a Turkish driver’s license. International driving permits aren’t necessary, but you can use one for up to 90 days alongside your U.S. driver’s license. Keep your passport with you when you’re on the road.
Rules of the Road
- Turkish traffic moves on the right, as in the United States and continental Europe, but passing is only on the left. Within urban areas, speed limits stand at 50 kph (31 mph), rising to 90 kph (55 mph) outside cities. On motorways, the legal limit is higher again, at 120 kph (74 mph), while motorways also have a minimum speed limit of 40 kph (24 mph). Driver and passengers should all wear seat belts, while children under 10 should never travel in the front passenger seat.
- Caution
- Drive defensively when on the roads in Turkey, advises the State Department, and expect the unexpected. Traffic accident rates are among the highest in the world: 510 fatalities per million vehicles on the roads in 2009. Local drivers cause many accidents by driving erratically, so beware of vehicles cutting across several lanes of traffic, ignoring traffic signals and road signs. Be particularly careful at night, when drivers venture out without using their headlights and low light conditions make it difficult to see obstacles in the road. Never use your cell phone while driving in Turkey; it’s illegal and you could be fined the equivalent of $40.
Accidents
- If you do have an accident while driving in Turkey, call the traffic police on 154 or the Jandarma on 156. You are not legally obliged to contact local law enforcement, but the State Department advises doing so because the forms you must complete are in Turkish and an error could mean that you are held responsible for the accident. Never move your car until the police have arrived, even to clear the road for other vehicles to pass, and don’t leave the scene of the accident. Afterward, ensure you receive a certified copy of the police report.
Considerations
- If you're planning a trip to Turkey, check the State Department's website for any recent travel warnings. Terrorist groups are active in Turkey, and sometimes specifically target United States institutions, such as the U.S. embassy, and U.S. citizens. The State Department recommends staying alert throughout your time in Turkey, but particularly in places like shops or restaurants where U.S. citizens can be found. Avoid political demonstrations and stay aware of your surroundings.
