Restricted traffic zones and city driving
ZTL checkpoint active: what does it mean, and can you enter?
“Checkpoint active” means the ZTL is in operation: enter only if your vehicle is authorised and its registration meets the local rules.
All guides
Renewals, documents and everyday questions: practical answers for drivers in Italy.
Renewing your licence
Driving licence renewal: how it works and where to get your medical
You renew your driving licence after a medical assessment. Find out who can carry it out, what happens next and how to check your licence is valid.
Penalty points and fines
How do driving licence points recovery courses work?
Approved courses can restore points if your balance has not reached zero; the MIT sets out the rules and eligible licence categories.
Maintenance
Airbag warning light on: can you keep using the car?
An illuminated airbag warning light signals a fault that needs checking. Consult the handbook and arrange assistance, as the safety systems may not work as intended.
Travel
Foreign driving licences and car hire: which documents to check
Before booking a car, check that your driving licence is valid in the country, accepted by the hire company, and accompanied by any required supporting document.
Breakdowns and unexpected events
Puncture on a motorway: what to do before getting out
If you get a puncture on a motorway, reach a safe place without braking sharply; do not change the wheel while exposed to traffic.
Restricted traffic zones and city driving
Entering and leaving a ZTL several times: how many penalties could you receive?
Each ZTL passage may be treated separately: compare the notices, checkpoints, times and local rules before drawing conclusions.
Refuelling
Which petrol should you use? How to read your car handbook
Use the petrol specified for your engine in the handbook and on the fuel flap; do not rely on the product name alone.
Refuelling
Self-service or attended: how to compare fuel prices
Compare the same fuel and service type on the MIMIT price monitor, then check the displayed price before filling up.
Refuelling
Your first public charge: how to use an electric-car charging point
For your first public charge, check the connector, compatible charging power and payment method, then follow the operator’s instructions.
Tyres
Tyre pressures for holidays and a full boot
Before a fully loaded journey, check the pressure specified by the manufacturer for that configuration and measure it when the tyres are cold.
Refuelling
Charging will not start: what to check at a charging point
If charging will not start, check the connector, authentication and error messages. Do not force the cable or socket; contact the operator.
Renewing your licence
Renewing a category C or D driving licence: how often?
The validity of a category C or D licence depends on the full category, your age and medical circumstances. Check the printed expiry date and confirm the rules with the MIT.
Penalty points and fines
How to read the deadlines for challenging a road-traffic penalty
Before paying or appealing, identify the notification date, the recipient and the competent authority named on the notice.
Tyres
Tyre warning light in winter: why pressure can change
Cold weather can lower tyre pressure. Check the tyres when cold and adjust them to the manufacturer’s figures.
Maintenance
Yellow and red oil warning lights: how to tell them apart
Symbols and colours vary by model, but a red oil-pressure warning means you should stop as soon as it is safe and switch off the engine.
Refuelling
Winter diesel: what to know in very cold weather
In very low temperatures, use the fuel specified for your vehicle and follow the station’s guidance; do not improvise with additives.
Restricted traffic zones and city driving
Disability parking badge: entering a ZTL in a different car
If entering a ZTL in a different vehicle, check the CUDE rules and the local council’s process: the registration number often has to be reported.
Restricted traffic zones and city driving
Rental cars and ZTLs: who registers the number plate?
With a rental car, check before entering a ZTL who must register the number plate and by when: this depends on the local council and your rental agreement.
Breakdowns and unexpected events
Red brake warning light on: what to do immediately
If the red brake warning light stays on or appears while driving, stop as soon as it is safe and consult the handbook or call for assistance.