Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving is on the right in Sweden as in the United States.

• Road signs use standard international symbols and Swedish text. Many urban streets have traffic lanes reserved for public transportation only.
• Swedish roads are comparable to those in the United States, though secondary roads may be less heavily traveled. Slower vehicles are expected to move onto the shoulder to allow faster moving vehicles to pass.
• All vehicles on the road must have their headlights turned on, no matter the time of day. You must use snow tires between December 1 and March 31, and you should be experienced driving on ice and snow, if you are going to drive in the winter.
• Gas stations in rural areas can be far apart. Some gas stations are unattended and require a credit card with a chip to purchase fuel; some U.S. banks will issue this type of card upon request.
• You must use seat belts, and children under 135cm (4.45ft) in height must be seated in approved child or booster seats. 
  

Traffic Laws:  You can use a valid U.S. driver's license while visiting Sweden, but you must be at least 18 years old to drive

• The maximum speed limit is 120 kilometers per hour (approximately 75 miles per hour).
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription drugs, is considered a very serious offense. The maximum legal blood-alcohol level is .02-- much lower than in the United States. Swedish police often conduct alcohol tests on roads and highways. The rules are strictly enforced and fines can be severe, including possible jail sentences.  

Public Transportation: Public transport in Sweden is the recommended method of travel.

• Passenger trains, intercity buses, and airplanes provide regular service over longer distances. Public transportation in urban centers includes buses, subways, trams, suburban trains, and taxis.
  
• Taxis are more expensive than in major U.S. cities. Most local residents use public transport in Stockholm, as parking can be hard to find and expensive. The bus, train, and subway systems are considered safe. Cyclists are common on many roads, especially in urban areas. 

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.  Also, we suggest that you visit the website of  Sweden’s national tourist office and the SwedishTransport Administration.

Aviation Safety Oversight:
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Sweden’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Sweden’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.