There are two toll systems in Portugal. The traditional one is called Via Verde (Green Lane). These toll lanes on toll roads are marked with green V signs. You can pay with cash, credit cards or prepaid cards as you go. In order to use a Via Verde lane, you must buy or rent an electronic transponder or vignette at any CTT Post Office and Via Verde stores. Don't use the Via Verde lanes if you don't have the Via Verde Transponder.

Other roads only have electronic tolls, meaning that there are no toll booths and can't be paid as you go. The devices placed at the beginning of those highways detect the passing vehicles. They are marked with a black car with three beams expanding toward it. The majority of car rental agencies in Portugal have Via Verde transponders pre-installed in their vehicles. Nevertheless, if you'll be hiring a car in Portugal, ask the company you're hiring with how their systems work with both toll systems.

Driving in Lisbon is challenging, since the drivers are impatient and there is little road signage. Heavy traffic can also be an issue. However, a car hire in Lisbon is simple and affordable. The best time to visit Lisbon (weather-wise) is spring, since the temperatures aren’t as high as in the summer time. Summer however, is the peak season. The maximum BAC level is 0.05% for drivers of private vehicles. There is a Zero Tolerance Law for novice drivers who have held a driving licence less than two years and for young drivers under the age of 21.         

• Age limits: 21 (minimum age may vary according to car hire companies. A Young Driver fee will apply to drivers under 25 years of age. In order to hire a car, it is required that a driver has held a driving licence more than one year).
• International Driving Permit: Yes, if you are a non-EU licence holder.
• Additional papers: Identification (passport), a valid driving licence and a valid proof of insurance. (It is advisable to buy insurance at the car hire agency in case your policy doesn't cover you while driving in Portugal).
• Additional requirements: Warning triangles, reflective vests and hands-free equipment with hearing aids are required while driving and talking on the phone
• Children in the car: All car occupants must wear a seatbelt. Children under the age of twelve or shorter than 4ft 11in (1.50 metres) can only travel in the front passenger seat if they are in a special rear-facing children’s seat.
• Driving side of the road:
• Lights: Headlights are not turned on unless you are in a tunnel or during conditions of poor visibility.
• General speed limits: 75mph (120kph) on motorways, 55mph (90kph) outside cities and 30mph (50kph) in residential areas.
• Parking suggestions: Parking your car in the historic centre is almost impossible, due to narrow streets, but there are many underground parking garages and there are metered parking spots identified with blue lines where you can park your rental car.In general try to avoid street parking.

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