Car Ownership Guide
Mastering Cyprus Driving: MOT, Road Tax, Insurance & Rules (2025)
Once you have a car in Cyprus, there are three key administrative tasks every owner must handle to stay legal: the MOT, Road Tax, and Insurance. Understanding these annual requirements, along with some local driving quirks, is essential for stress-free motoring. This CyExpats.com guide covers everything you need to know.
Your Car's Annual Admin Calendar
The process is interconnected. You cannot renew your Road Tax without valid MOT and Insurance certificates. The renewal period for Road Tax is from the beginning of January until **March 11th**. Mark this deadline in your calendar every year!
🚗 Understanding the annual admin is key, but what about the total cost? Our Car Ownership & Costs Calculator can help you budget for everything from insurance to fuel.
The Annual "Big Three" for Car Owners
1. The MOT Test
The MOT is a mandatory technical inspection to ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. It checks brakes, lights, tyres, steering, suspension, and emissions.
- Frequency: A new car's first MOT is at 4 years old. After that, it must be tested **every 2 years**.
- Process: Book an appointment at a private, government-approved testing station.
- Cost: Approximately **€35**.
- What to Bring: Your vehicle's Registration Certificate (Log Book).
2. Road Tax (Circulation Licence)
This is an annual tax you must pay to legally use your car on public roads. You cannot pay it without a valid MOT and insurance.
- Calculation: Based on your vehicle's CO2 emissions and engine size. Higher emissions mean higher tax.
- Payment: The easiest way is online via the official Road Transport Dept. (TOM) portal.
- Deadline: You must renew by March 11th to avoid a €10 fine plus a 10% penalty on the tax amount.
3. Car Insurance
It is illegal to drive in Cyprus without at least third-party insurance. This is the absolute minimum legal requirement.
- Third-Party: Covers injury or damage you cause to others. It does **not** cover your own car.
- Third-Party, Fire & Theft: Same as above, but also covers your car if it's stolen or damaged by fire.
- Comprehensive: Covers everything above, plus damage to your own car, even if an accident is your fault. Highly recommended for any car of value.
Key Driving Rules & Etiquette
Beyond the admin, knowing the local rules of the road is vital for your safety.
| Rule / Situation | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Driving Side | Drive on the **left**, overtake on the right. A legacy of British rule. |
| Speed Limits |
Always obey posted signs as limits can change. Speed cameras are common. |
| Roundabouts | Traffic **already on the roundabout** has the right of way. You must yield to traffic approaching from your right before entering. |
| Mobile Phones | Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is strictly illegal and carries a heavy fine (€150) and penalty points. Only hands-free systems are permitted. |
| Alcohol Limit | The limit is very low at 22μg per 100ml of breath (the UK limit is 35μg). The safest and only recommended approach is **zero alcohol** if you are driving. Penalties are severe. |
| Parking | A **double yellow line** means no parking at any time. A **single yellow line** means no parking or waiting during hours shown on nearby signs. Parking in a disabled bay without a permit results in a large fine. |
| Seatbelts | Mandatory for all passengers, in both front and rear seats. Children must be in appropriate car seats. |
Official Resources:
- Department of Road Transport (TOM) - For all official information on MOT and Road Tax.
- Cyprus Driving Network - A useful summary of traffic offences and penalties.