Drinking And Driving:-If the level of alcohol in the bloodstream is more than 0.05% or more, severe penalties can be imposed. These can include fines, confiscation of your vehicle and even imprisonment.
Driving Licence:-The minimum age which a UK licence holder may drive a temporarily imported vehicle is and/or motorcycle(over 125cc) is 18. All valid UK licences should be accepted in Italy, including the older style paper licence, although these may be difficult to read and understand.
Fines:-Fines are usually issued on the spot. Fines for speeding are particularly heavy. Police are able to issue the fine and collect 1 quarter of the maximum. They must issue a reciept for the amount that has been paid to them.
Fuel:-Unleaded petrol (95 RON) is readily available throughout Italy. Leaded petrol (4 star) is not available, although a lead substitute additive is available. The carrying of petrol in a can is also permisable. Diesel (gasolio) and LPG are also available.
Lights:-Outside of built up areas, the use of dipped headlamps is compulsary. Dipped headlamps are compulsary whilst driving through tunnels irrespective of length or lighting. Rear fog lamps are only permissable whilst visibility is less than 50 metres.
Motorcycles:-Crash helmets are compulsary whilst riding a motorcycle. Dipped headlamps must be used at all times whilst riding.
Motor Insurance:-Third party insuance in the minimum compulsary.
Seat Belts:-If seat belts are fitted to the vehicle, it is compulsary that they be worn.
Speed Limits:-The following are standard speed limits for private vehicles without trailers, although they may be varied by signs. In built up areas the speed limit is 31mph (50kph). Outside of built up areas the limit is 55mph (90kph) on ordinary roads and 68mph (110kph) on dual carriageways and 80mph (130 kph) on motorways.
Other Information:-It is compulsary to carry a warning triange whilst driving in Itlay. It is reccomended that you carry a set of replacement bulbs. Motorcycles under 150cc are not permissable on motorways. It is also now compulsary to carry a reflective jacket whilst driving in Italy, and they must be worn by every occupant of the vehicle if they exit the vehicle which has become immobilised on the motorway at night or in poor visibility.