Driving in Finland

The extensive road system is utilized by most internal cargo and passenger traffic. As of 2005, the country's network of main roads has a total length of 13,258 km and all public roads 78,186 km, of which 50,616 km are paved. The motorway network totals 653 km. The small number of motorways in Finland connected the largest cities.

Along highways and motorways in Finland there are numerous places you can stop, take a break and see more than just the road. Of the over five million Finns, approximately one million live in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Northern Finland has the lowest population density and also a climate that differs from that of southern Finland. While the winter temperature in Lapland can be as low as -40 °C, the average temperature for January is -6 °C in Helsinki.

Studded or unstudded winter tyres

Winter tyres are compulsory in Finland from 1 December until the end of February. During the three winter months, passenger cars and vans must be equipped with studded or unstudded winter tyres, so-called contact tyres. Time limits are flexible, however; if the weather conditions require winter tyres, they are allowed. On summer tyres, the tread depth must be no less than 1.6 mm.

Use of headlights is compulsory

Use of headlights is compulsory in Finland. Whenever a vehicle is driven, its dipped headlights or day-time running lights must be on, even during daytime. Lights must be used within built-up areas as well as outside them. Use of headlights significantly improves the visibility of vehicles in traffic. It is easier to see if a vehicle is stationary or moving and in what direction it is travelling.

Headlights must not be used in such a way that would dazzle other drivers. Use of main beam is prohibited on a well lit road and when driving close to another vehicle. Fog lights may be used only in fog or mist or in heavy rain or snow.

Driving speed appropriate for the conditions

Your driving speed must be appropriate for the conditions. The speed indicated on a speed limit sign may be too high for the conditions at the time. The state of the road, the weather, the road surface conditions, the loading of the vehicle, the type of load and the traffic conditions must all be taken into account. Speed must be held at a level where the driver can keep control of the vehicle and can, if necessary, stop within the distance he or she can see to be clear.

Badly worn road surface

If the road surface is badly worn, a lot of water can gather in the path of the vehicle. With an increase in speed, the tyres can steadily or without warning lose their grip, and the vehicle may then start to slide on the film of water.

Road-crossing points for elk, deer and reindeer

Road signs indicate the most common road-crossing points for elk, deer and, in the north, reindeer. These animals are on the move especially around dawn and dusk. The whole of northern Finland is a reindeer-grazing area. If you see any of these animals on the road, reduce your speed and, if necessary, stop the vehicle. Sounding the horn is not likely to have any effect.

If you collide with an elk, deer or reindeer, you are obliged to notify the police.

The data above is based on information by public sources. No rights can be derived from this publication.

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