Driving in Turkey

If you plan to drive in Turkey, you must have a valid international driver’s license or a converted Turkish license if staying long-term. The roads in Istanbul can be congested, especially during peak hours, and local driving habits may take time to get used to. Traffic regulations are strictly enforced, and speed cameras are common throughout the city. Additionally, Istanbul’s road network includes toll roads, so getting an HGS sticker (High-Speed Toll System) for your vehicle is essential.

Public transportation is often the more practical choice due to heavy traffic and limited parking in busy areas. However, if you still wish to drive, car rental services and ride-sharing options like Uber and BiTaksi are widely available. Parking can be a challenge, but many shopping centers and residential areas offer paid parking lots. For students, driving may not be necessary, as Istanbul has an extensive public transport system that connects nearly all parts of the city.