Cars & Transportation Cyprus

Public transportation in Cyprus is primarily represented by buses, which provide both urban and intercity services.

City Buses

In major cities like Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos, city bus networks operate. Buses run from early morning (around 05:00) until late evening (approximately 23:00), providing regular connections between various areas of the city and its surroundings.

Intercity Buses

Intercity buses operate between the main cities of Cyprus, offering transportation across the island without the need to rent a car. However, the frequency of trips may be limited, especially on weekends and public holidays.

Service Taxis

There are also service taxis, known as "service-taxis," that run between major cities and resorts. They operate daily from 05:45 to 18:30 and can carry up to 10 passengers. The fare is higher than buses but lower than regular taxis, making them a popular choice for groups of tourists.

Air Transport

Domestic Flights: Cyprus is a relatively small island, and there are no domestic flights.

International Air Transport

Cyprus is an important international transport hub in the Mediterranean, and its international air connections are actively developing. Daily flights are available to most major airports in Europe and the Middle East. During the tourist season (April-October), the number of flights increases significantly.

Main Airports: Larnaca International Airport, Paphos International Airport.

In Cyprus, the fare system for public transport, mainly buses, offers several ticket options and methods of purchase.

Types of Tickets

- Single Ticket: Valid for one trip within the city from 04:00 to 21:00.

- Night Single Ticket: Valid from 21:00 to 04:00.

- Daily Ticket: Provides unlimited trips during the day from 04:00 to 23:00.

- Weekly Ticket: Valid for seven days.

- Monthly Ticket: Valid for a month.

- Annual Ticket: Valid for a year.

- Intercity Tickets: Price depends on the route.

Ways to Purchase Tickets

- From the Driver: Single and night tickets can be purchased directly from the driver when boarding the bus. Payment is accepted in cash.

- Ticket Kiosks and Sales Offices: Daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly tickets, as well as Motion Bus Card plastic cards, are available at specialized sales points.

Motion Bus Card Plastic Cards:

- Anonymous Card: Issuance cost — €5.00. Can be topped up for 7 or 30 days and used as an electronic wallet (e-wallet) with a maximum amount of up to €50.

- Personalized Card: Issuance cost — €5.00. Designed for people entitled to discounts (students, pensioners, etc.). Requires identification and proof of discount eligibility.

Discounts and Benefits

- 50% Discount: Offered to students, schoolchildren, and pensioners with appropriate IDs.

- Free Travel: Children under 6, military personnel, people with disabilities, and their companions are entitled to free travel upon presenting supporting documents.

Usage Features

- Transfers: When using an electronic wallet on a plastic card, the first transfer within 60 minutes from the first validation is free.

- Ticket Validity: Single tickets are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase; periodic tickets start being valid from the first validation.

For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to visit the official Cyprus Public Transport website.

Taxis:

Availability: Taxis operate 24/7 and are available in all major cities and tourist areas. They can be called by phone, through mobile applications, or found at designated stands. Several taxi services offer both standard and premium services. Main companies:

Cyprus Taxi: A traditional taxi service operating in most cities and tourist areas; available by phone, through mobile apps, or at designated stands; they provide airport transfer services, fixed tariffs on popular routes, and drivers often speak English.

iTaxi Cyprus: Ordering via the app or website; options to choose the class of vehicle, online payment by credit card, real-time vehicle location tracker.

Bolt: A popular international platform for ordering taxis; ordering via the Bolt mobile app; various categories of vehicles (economy, comfort, premium).

CabCyprus: A service focused on transfers and group taxis; ordering via website or phone; provision of minivans and large vehicles; option for advance booking.

Paphos Taxi: A local taxi service popular in the Paphos area; ordering by phone or through the website; specializes in transfers from Paphos airport, with the option to choose child seats, and fixed rates on popular routes.

Nicosia Taxi: The main taxi service in Nicosia; ordering by phone or through local apps; individual and group trips are available.

Larnaca Airport Taxi: A specialized transfer service from Larnaca airport; order online or on-site; the option to order business-class vehicles, fixed prices for transfers to neighboring cities.

Limassol Taxi Service: A popular taxi service in Limassol; ordering via website or phone; specializes in tourists and hotel transfers.

Kapnos Airport Shuttle: An alternative to taxis for transfers from Larnaca and Paphos airports; ordering online or through agencies; group trips in minivans.

 

Fares: The cost of a trip depends on the distance and time of day; night fares are usually higher than daytime ones. It is recommended to clarify the cost before the trip, as some companies offer fixed prices for popular routes.

Payment methods: Most taxis accept cash, but some companies offer the option to pay by credit card or through mobile apps.

 

Car Sharing Services

Car sharing is underdeveloped in Cyprus, and most tourists and locals prefer renting cars through traditional rental companies. Typically, a driver's license, passport, and credit card are required for car rental. Age restrictions and driving experience requirements may vary depending on the company.

E-Scooter Rental

Services: E-scooter rental services such as Take A Ride and Samokat operate in large cities like Limassol, Nicosia, and Larnaca.

Usage: You need to download the appropriate mobile app, register, link a payment method, and find the nearest available scooter.

Rates: Usually, there is an unlocking fee (e.g., €0.80) and a per-minute charge (about €0.20 per minute). Some services offer daily rates.

Zones of Use: Scooters can be used within specific areas indicated in the app. At the end of the ride, they can be left at any permitted location within this area.

Bicycle Rental

Services: The bike rental system Nextbike is available in cities such as Limassol, Nicosia, Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras.

Usage: You need to register on the website or in the mobile app, after which you can rent a bicycle at one of the stations.

Rates: The first hour of rental costs about €2, and each subsequent hour is €1. Monthly subscriptions are available for €20.

Zones of Use: Bicycles can be taken and returned at special stations located throughout the city.

Living in Cyprus without owning a car is possible, especially in large cities and tourist areas where public transport infrastructure is developed and alternative modes of transportation are available. In rural areas and for more flexible mobility, having personal transport may be preferable.

Features and Recommendations

Left-hand Traffic: Cyprus has left-hand traffic, which may require adaptation for pedestrians and users of alternative transport.

Planning Routes: It is recommended to study public transport schedules in advance and plan trips, especially when traveling between cities or in the evening.

Car Culture: Cyprus ranks 12th in the world in terms of the number of cars per capita, with almost 800 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants, reflecting the deep-rooted car culture in everyday life.

Obtaining a local driver's license in Cyprus for immigrants depends on whether you have a valid driving license from your country and the duration of your stay on the island. Let's consider two main scenarios:

Exchange of a foreign driver's license for a Cypriot license

If you have a valid driving license issued in your country and have been residing in Cyprus for at least six months, you can exchange it for an equivalent Cypriot license. To do this, you must:

Visit: Citizen Service Center or regional branch of the Ministry of Transport.

Provide the following documents:

- Completed application form TOM 7 (available only in Greek).

- Two passport-sized photos (45×35 mm).

- Original and copy of your Cyprus residence permit.

- Proof of residence in Cyprus for at least six months (e.g., utility bills).

- Passport or identity card (original and copy).

- Original and copy of all pages of your national driver's license.

Pay the fee: €40 (for those under 65 years old); for those over 65 years old – free.

After submitting the application, you will be issued a temporary paper license, valid only within the Republic of Cyprus, until you receive a permanent plastic license.

Obtaining a new driver's license in Cyprus

If you do not have a driver's license or prefer to complete the entire training process in Cyprus, you must:

Requirements:

At least 18 years old.

Reside in Cyprus for at least six months.

Process

Obtaining a learner's permit:

Visit the Department of Transport.

Pass an oral road theory exam (in Greek or English) and a vision test.

Provide necessary documents: completed TOM 7A form, two passport-sized photos, proof of residence, passport, and a copy of the page with personal details.

Pay the fee: €20.

After successfully passing the exam, you will be issued a learner's permit, valid for one year.

Driving training: It is recommended to undergo training with a licensed instructor. The minimum training period is 31 days from obtaining the learner's permit.

Passing the practical exam:

Schedule an exam through the Department of Transport.

Provide necessary documents and pay the fee: €20.

After passing the exam, you will be issued a temporary license, followed by a permanent plastic driver's license.

Notes:

Foreign students must provide proof of study at an accredited educational institution in Cyprus for at least six months.

Drivers over 70 years old or with certain medical conditions must provide a medical certificate.

For up-to-date information, it is recommended to contact the local Department of Transport or Citizen Service Center.

Left-hand traffic: Cyprus has left-hand traffic, which requires adaptation for drivers from countries with right-hand traffic.

Age of vehicles: Most cars on Cypriot roads are between 10 and 20 years old.

Car registration: Purchasing a car requires registration with the Department of Road Transport. When buying a used car, a change of ownership must be processed by providing the appropriate documents and paying fees.

Taxes and fees: Car owners are required to pay an annual road tax, the amount of which depends on the type and characteristics of the vehicle.

Technical inspection: Cars older than four years are subject to mandatory technical inspections every two years. Having a valid MOT certificate is mandatory for operating the vehicle.

Insurance: Having a civil liability insurance policy is mandatory. Additionally, comprehensive coverage can be obtained for wider protection.

Driver's license: Foreign drivers can use their national driver's licenses for a certain period. Cyprus residents are required to exchange their foreign licenses for Cypriot ones after six months of residence.

Parking: In cities, paid parking zones are in effect. Incorrect parking can lead to fines or vehicle towing.

Fuel: Filling stations offer gasoline, diesel, and, in some places, liquefied gas. Fuel prices vary and may change depending on global oil prices.

Car import: Importing used cars from countries outside the EU, such as the UK after Brexit, is subject to certain restrictions, including the vehicle's age and compliance with environmental standards.

Traffic rules

Speed limits:

In populated areas: 50 km/h.

On rural roads: 65-80 km/h, unless otherwise indicated by signs.

On highways: 100 km/h (minimum speed — 65 km/h).

Seat belt use:

Mandatory for all passengers: Regardless of their position in the vehicle.

Children: Children under 12 years old or shorter than 150 cm must be in special child restraint devices.

Driving under the influence of alcohol:

Permissible blood alcohol level: 0.5 per mille (50 mg/100 ml of blood).

For drivers with less than 3 years of experience: 0.2 per mille.

Ban on using mobile phones: Phone conversations: Only allowed using hands-free devices.

Ban on smoking in the car: With children under 16: Smoking in the car is prohibited.

Pedestrian priority: Pedestrians have priority at zebras and crosswalks. Failing to stop for pedestrians can result in a fine or other sanctions.

Parking: Prohibited: On sidewalks, in front of exits, at pedestrian crossings, in areas with prohibitory signs.

Use of headlights:

Evening and night time: Low beam headlights are mandatory.

In bad weather: Using low beam headlights is mandatory even during the day.

Excessive noise level: Using sound signals is prohibited at night (from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM) and near hospitals and schools.

Mandatory documents: A driver must always carry: a driving license; vehicle registration certificate; insurance policy; Technical inspection certificate (for cars older than 4 years).

Driving peculiarities: Left-hand traffic: Getting used to it takes time, especially for new drivers on the island.

 

Recommendations

Before purchasing a car, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with local requirements and procedures, as well as consider the peculiarities of left-hand traffic.

Since October 1, 2020, Cyprus has introduced stricter fines and penalties for traffic violations.

Main fines and penalties

Speeding:

Exceeding up to 30% of the set limit: fine €2 for each km/h over the limit and 1 penalty point.

Exceeding from 31% to 50%: fine €3 for each km/h and 2 penalty points.

Exceeding from 51% to 75%: fine €5 for each km/h and 3 penalty points.

Exceeding more than 75%: the case is referred to court, possible fine up to €4,000, driving license suspension and imprisonment up to 1 year.

Running a red light: Fine of €300 and imposition of penalty points.

Using a mobile phone without a hands-free system: Fine of €150; for repeat violation within 3 years — €300.

Not wearing a seat belt or absence of a helmet for a motorcyclist: Fine of €150; for repeat violation within 3 years — €300.

Driving under the influence of alcohol:

With blood alcohol level from 0.22 to 0.35 mg/l: fine €125.

With level from 0.36 to 0.55 mg/l: fine €250.

With level from 0.56 to 0.70 mg/l: fine €500.

With level above 0.70 mg/l: the case is referred to court, possible fine up to €10,000, license suspension and imprisonment up to 2 years.

Improper parking:

Parking in disabled spots: fine €300.

Parking in prohibited areas: fines range from €100 to €200 depending on the violation.

Dangerous driving: The case is referred to court, possible fine up to €3,000, license suspension and imprisonment up to 2 years.

Penalty points:

Cyprus has a penalty point system. Accumulation of 12 points may result in license revocation. From February 1, 2025, the threshold is increased to 16 points. Points are canceled 3 years after they are imposed.

Fine payment:

Fines must be paid within 30 days. Late payment increases the amount by 50%. Non-payment of the fine may lead to legal proceedings and additional sanctions.

Payment of Fines

Online Payment

Platforms:

JCC Smart: The official site for paying various fines, including traffic fines. (jccsmart.com)

Cyprus Police Traffic Portal: On this portal, you can check fines and make payments.

Required Information:

Fine number (issued upon infraction).

Vehicle registration number (if the fine is related to a vehicle).

Process:

- Visit the JCC Smart platform or Traffic Portal.

- Register (if required) or log in to the system.

- Enter the fine number and vehicle registration number.

- Verify the fine information.

- Choose the payment method (usually a credit card) and complete the transaction.

Receipt: An electronic payment receipt will be issued immediately after the transaction is completed.

 

Payment at the Police Station: Fines can be paid at the nearest police station that handles financial transactions. Required documents: notice of the fine; identity document (passport or ID). Cash or credit cards are accepted (check at the station).

Payment at the Bank: Some banks in Cyprus allow fines to be paid through online banking or directly at a branch. Required information: transfer details from the notice; fine number. A bank check or transaction confirmation should be retained.

Through Mobile Apps: Some mobile banking apps or special services (e.g., JCC Smart App) also support fine payments. The process is similar to online payment through the website.

Vehicle Registration

Initial Registration

Imported Cars: When importing a car into Cyprus, you must register it with the Department of Road Transport. This requires providing documents proving ownership, the technical specifications of the car, and paying the necessary fees.

Purchase in Cyprus: When buying a new or used car from a local dealer or private individual, a change of ownership needs to be registered in your name. This includes submitting form TOM 9 and paying the registration fee.

Necessary Documents for Registration:

- Completed form TOM 9.

- Documents proving ownership (e.g., invoice or sales contract).

- Certificate of compliance for new vehicles.

- Valid insurance policy.

- Identity document (passport or ID).

- Proof of residence address in Cyprus.

Technical Inspection

Frequency:

Passenger cars are subject to the first technical inspection four years after initial registration. Subsequent inspections are every two years.

Motorcycles are also required to undergo regular technical inspections.

Inspection Procedure:

- Choose an authorized inspection station. A list of stations is available on the Department of Road Transport website.

- Present the vehicle registration certificate and pay the prescribed fee.

- The test takes approximately 30 minutes and includes checks of exhaust emissions, braking system, suspension, steering, lighting, and tire condition.

Test results are immediately entered into the Department of Road Transport database, and a certificate valid for two years is issued.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

- Without a valid inspection certificate, road tax renewal is impossible.

- Operating a vehicle without a valid inspection is a violation and may result in fines.

Insurance companies may refuse to cover damages in the event of an accident involving a vehicle without a valid inspection.

Additional Recommendations

Change of Owner's Address: When changing residence address, it is necessary to notify the Department of Road Transport and update the registration documents.

For the latest information and access to necessary forms, it is recommended to visit the official website of the Cyprus Department of Road Transport.

The use and registration of foreign vehicles in the Republic of Cyprus are governed by specific rules, depending on the duration of the owner's stay and the purposes of the vehicle's use.

Temporary Use of Foreign Cars

Terms: Foreign cars can be used in Cyprus without registration for up to 6 months in a calendar year. After this period, the car must either be exported from the country or registered in Cyprus.

Documents: The driver must have valid driving licenses, a vehicle registration certificate, and an insurance policy recognized in Cyprus.

Insurance: Insurance valid in the territory of Cyprus is mandatory. Some foreign insurance policies may not cover risks in Cyprus, so it is recommended to obtain local insurance.

Registration of Foreign Cars

Need for Registration: If you plan to use a car in Cyprus for more than 6 months or become a resident, the car must be registered with local authorities.

Registration Procedure

Customs Clearance: Upon importing the car, customs clearance is required, and applicable duties and taxes must be paid. For petrol cars, the duty is 10% of the customs value, and for diesel cars, it is 8%. Additionally, VAT at 19% is applied.

Technical Inspection: The car must undergo an inspection to comply with Cyprus's technical and environmental standards.

Registration Fee: A one-time fee is paid for registration. The fee amount depends on the car's characteristics.

Obtaining License Plates: After completing all procedures, the car receives Cypriot registration plates.

Features for Third-Country Citizens

Car Ownership: Citizens of non-EU countries can legally own a car in Cyprus if they have a residence permit or a multiple-entry visa.

Recommendations

Consultation with Professionals: The process of importing and registering a car can be complex and require knowledge of local laws and procedures. It is recommended to consult specialists or companies specializing in automotive services in Cyprus for support and guidance in this process.

Adherence to Deadlines: It is important to adhere to the established deadlines for temporary use and registration of the car to avoid fines and legal issues.

For the most up-to-date and detailed information, it is recommended to contact the Cyprus Department of Road Transport or visit their official website.

The electric vehicle infrastructure in the Republic of Cyprus is actively developing, reflecting the country's commitment to environmentally friendly transportation and reducing carbon emissions.

Charging Stations:

Total Number and Distribution: Cyprus operates about 150 charging points located in key cities and along major transport routes.

Main Operators:

Electricity Authority of Cyprus: A state-owned company providing the e-charge service, ensuring access to charging stations across the island. To use it, you need to obtain an RFID card from any EAC customer service center.

EV Power: A private operator with a network of charging stations located in convenient places such as shopping centers and supermarkets. Registration in the EV Power mobile application is required for access.

Charge Point: An international company providing charging services in Cyprus, with main locations in Limassol and Larnaca.

Types of Charging Stations

Standard (slow) charging stations: Intended for long-term charging, usually installed in long-term parking areas.

Fast charging stations: Allow charging the battery up to 80% in 20-30 minutes. The EAC plans to install additional fast charging stations at strategic points throughout the island.

Government Initiatives

Mandatory Installation of Charging Stations in New Buildings: According to legislation, from January 1, 2025, all new buildings not intended for residence and having more than 20 parking spaces must be equipped with at least one charging station for electric vehicles. citeturn0search17

Service Centers

Electric Vehicle Maintenance: As the number of electric vehicles on Cyprus roads increases, so does the number of specialized service centers.  Local dealers and independent workshops are beginning to offer services for the maintenance and repair of electric vehicles, providing necessary support to owners. 