Cycling in Norway, do’s and don’ts
Are you ready for a cycling trip but a bit unsure about cycling rules in Norway? Whether you’re planning a trip in nature, a city tour or you just cycling to the shops, here are some things you need to remember.
Where can you cycle in Norway?
Everywhere! Or rather – almost everywhere. Stay away from motorways, tunnels and roads which clearly state that cycling is not allowed. All other places are good to go, as long as you follow the direction of traffic and adhere to traffic lights and road signs. Keep yourself to the right side of the road and give a signal if you want to turn.
Remember that pavements are mostly meant for pedestrians. If there are a lot of people, get off your bike.
Technical requirements for bikes
- Two separate brakes: front and back
- Red reflex on the back
- White or red reflexes on pedals
- White or yellow light in the front
- Bike bell
How to overtake on a bike?
In freely moving traffic, cyclists generally aren’t able to overtake other vehicles. But if you’re on an electric bike, of if there’s heavy traffic you might be able to overtake traffic. When you’re on a bike, you’re allowed to pass vehicles on your right. But be careful! There’s a risk that the driver may not see you, so make sure you have enough space.
In other situations, you overtake on the left. When you’re cycling on a pavement, pay attention to pedestrians and adjust your speed so that you don’t cycle faster than 6 km/h.
When do you have right of way as a cyclist in Norway?
You are approaching a pedestrian crossing from a pavement on your bike. Can you cross it riding your bike? Yes, but only if you have a clear lane – you are obliged to give way to cars and other cyclists on the road, so wait until it’s clear to cross.
If you get off your bike and walk with it, you are considered a regular pedestrian, and cars and cyclists on the road will have to stop for you.
You are also responsible for not creating hazard for people who walk.
If you approach a pedestrian crossing from the road, as a cyclist you are obliged to give way to pedestrians and cyclists which have dismounted to us the pedestrian crossing.
Cycling in Norwegian nature
Off for a cycling trip in nature? The general rule is that you can cycle freely on all paths and roads in the Norwegian wilderness. But be considerate towards people hiking, and note that some paths are forbidden for bikes. You’re also not allowed to create new tracks or destroy vulnerable nature. In protected areas, like for example national parks, special rules apply. If you're unsure, check local conservation regulations.
Drinking and bicycling in Norway
Although there is no official blood alcohol limit for riding a bike in Norway, you are responsible for maintaining control over your bike. If you bike in a way that is of danger to others, you might be stopped by the police and you could get a fine. If you cause an accident or endanger others due to your level of blood alcohol as a cyclist, you risk losing your driving licence (if you have one). Furthermore, your accident insurance may be reduced or voided, and you may be liable for damages. So don’t drink and bike!
Rules for scooters in Norway
In Norway, electric scooters are considered motor vehicles. This means that the blood alcohol limit is the same as for cars – 0.2 ‰. If you are caught on a scooter with a higher level than allowed, you could lose your driving license and risk a heavy fine.
If you own an e-scooter, you are required to have liability insurance. You need to be at least 12 years old to ride one, and individuals under 15 are required to wear a helmet. It is not allowed to ride one scooter with two or more people.
Otherwise, there are the same rules as for the bicycles. Show consideration for pedestrians. If you overtake a pedestrian on a pavement, your speed must not exceed 6km/h.
The most important rule
It’s your personal responsibility to not create dangerous or difficult situations for other road users.
Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act (Vegtrafikkloven) states:
Everyone must drive with consideration and exercise care and caution so that no danger or injury can arise and so that other traffic is not unnecessarily obstructed or disturbed. Road users must also show consideration for those who live or stay by the road.
Now you are ready! Take your bike or rent one. Get on your bike and don't forget to check our recommendations for cycling routes in Bergen. Have a good trip!
