Traffic Safety and Road Conditions
Persons residing in Luxembourg who wish to drive must have their driver’s license transcribed within one year. To start the process, the driver must have been a registered resident of Luxembourg for at least 185 days and the license must have been issued in the country where the person was actually residing at the time of issuance. Additional documents to be submitted with the application include a recent medical certificate, a criminal record (affidavit from the U.S. Embassy), and a residence permit for Luxembourg. It is not possible to receive a Luxembourg driver’s license and keep the foreign (U.S.) license, which has to be surrendered to the driver’s license office and will be returned to the issuing authority.
While in Luxembourg, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Luxembourg has a modern, well-maintained system of highways and secondary roads. Road signs and markings are clear and primarily worded in French. Streets in the city, construction sites, and crossroads are well illuminated at night. On highways, a digital alert system warns drivers of incidents or detours. Roads into and out of Luxembourg City are congested during the morning and evening rush hour. Visitors should drive defensively in high-volume commuter traffic. During the fall and winter, fog and ice can cause sudden slowdowns on highways and secondary roads.
In case of a car accident involving injury or dispute, it is a good idea to call the police at 113. The police will make an official assessment of the accident's circumstances that can subsequently be used if further legal action becomes necessary.
The daily mix of drivers from Luxembourg and its three neighboring countries results in a variety of driving practices and courtesies. While most drivers respect speed limits, traffic signals, and rules, some do not. Vehicle maintenance for cars registered in Luxembourg is controlled by the mandatory yearly car inspection; police can perform random road checks at any time. The possibility of encountering an intoxicated driver increases on weekends, especially during the late evening hours. Driving while intoxicated may result in penalties including imprisonment from eight days up to two years, plus a fine of 251 to 5,000 Euros (approximately $326 to $6,500).
Public transportation throughout the country, including bus services and taxis, is highly developed and is considered very safe.
Emergency road services in Luxembourg are excellent. For breakdown and towing service call the Automobile Club of Luxembourg (ACL) at 26000. In case of an accident, call 112 for a medical emergency and 113 for the police.
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