Driving in Sweden: Traffic rules, congestion taxes, bridge tolls and refuelling

Essential traffic rules in Sweden

• Drive on the right: Like most European countries, Swedes drive on the right side of the road.
• Headlights on at all times: You must have your headlights on, even during daylight hours.
• Seatbelt requirements: All passengers, both front and rear, must wear seatbelts.
• Speed limits: Speed limits vary between 30 km/h in residential areas and up to 120 km/h on motorways. Always follow posted signs.
• Alcohol limit: The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration is 0.02%. Sweden has strict laws and penalties regarding drink-driving.

Congestion taxes in Sweden

Sweden’s two largest cities, Stockholm and Gothenburg, have congestion tax zones. These are designed to reduce traffic and pollution in the city centres.

• Where do you pay congestion tax? The tax applies when entering and exiting the central areas of Stockholm and Gothenburg during weekdays.
• How does it work? Vehicles are automatically registered through number plate recognition, and the fee varies depending on the time of day and location. For more information on current fees in Stockholm and Gothenburg, visit the Stockholm congestion tax page and the Gothenburg congestion tax page.
• Payment: If you're driving a rental car, the rental company may charge you a fee. Otherwise, you’ll receive an invoice if your vehicle is registered abroad.

For further details about congestion taxes, visit the Swedish Transport Agency’s website.

Bridge tolls

Several significant bridges in Sweden have toll fees, including:

• Öresund Bridge: This iconic bridge connects Malmö in Sweden to Copenhagen in Denmark. For details on prices, visit the Öresund Bridge toll page.
• Svinesund Bridge: Located near the border with Norway, this bridge also has a toll. For more information, visit the Svinesund Bridge toll page.
• Motalabron: Situated in Motala in southern Sweden, this bridge has a toll fee for passage.
• Sundsvallsbron: This bridge in Sundsvall in northern Sweden also charges a toll.
• Skurubron: Located in Nacka near Stockholm, Skurubron introduced a toll fee in October 2023. For more information about bridge tolls at Motalabron, Sundsvallsbron and Skurubron, visit this website.

Winter driving and safety tips

During winter (1 December to 31 March), vehicles must have winter tyres. Studded tyres are allowed between 1 October and 15 April. Outside of these dates, they are only permitted if winter conditions are present or expected. Additionally, certain municipalities, such as Stockholm and Gothenburg, have restrictions on studded tyres on specific streets to reduce air pollution.​

• Be cautious: Swedish roads can be slippery due to ice and snow. Drive slowly and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
• Look out for wildlife: In rural areas, moose and deer may cross the road, especially around dawn and dusk.

Refuelling and electric vehicle charging in Sweden

Sweden boasts an extensive network of petrol stations and electric vehicle (EV) charging points, ensuring that drivers of both traditional and electric cars can travel conveniently across the country.

Gas stations: Petrol and diesel are widely available throughout Sweden, with numerous stations located along major roads and in urban areas. Many stations offer 24-hour service, providing convenience for long-distance travellers.

Electric vehicle charging: For EV drivers, Sweden offers a comprehensive and growing network of charging stations:

• Charging infrastructure: Public charging stations are available in cities, towns, and along major highways. Many shopping centres, hotels, and public car parks also provide charging facilities.
• Finding charging stations: Several online platforms and mobile apps can help you locate charging points across Sweden. For instance, ChargeFinder offers a real-time map of available charging stations, including information on availability, pricing, and connector types. Similarly, PlugShare provides a comprehensive map of charging locations and user reviews.

Exploring Sweden by car can be a rewarding experience, offering both freedom and stunning scenery. By following these guidelines and preparing for local rules and weather conditions, you'll ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey across the country.