Cars & Transportation Estonia

Buses

The bus service is the main type of public transport in Estonia, covering both urban and rural areas. In major cities like Tallinn and Tartu, buses provide regular routes from early morning to late at night. Intercity buses connect the main cities and settlements of the country, offering convenient and frequent services.

Trams

The tram network operates exclusively in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. The city's tram system consists of four routes, connecting key areas of the city and providing easy access to the center.

Trolleybuses

The trolleybus service is also only available in Tallinn, where several routes serve the western districts of the city, particularly the area of Mustamäe. Trolleybuses are an important part of the city transport system, providing regular and reliable service.

Trains

Railway service in Estonia is managed by the company Elron and connects Tallinn with other major cities such as Tartu, Narva, Pärnu, and Viljandi. Trains are a convenient means of transport for medium and long distances, offering comfortable conditions for passengers.

Ferries

Ferry service plays a significant role in Estonia's transport system, especially for connecting the mainland with islands. Regular ferry routes connect Tallinn with the island of Aegna, as well as the mainland with major islands such as Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. Ferries are an integral part of the transport infrastructure, ensuring accessibility to remote regions.

Air transport

Domestic air transport: Domestic flights in Estonia are not well developed due to the compact size of the country and a well-developed ground transport network. The only significant domestic air route is to the islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, serviced from Tallinn. These flights are operated several times a week and are a convenient way of connection for local residents and tourists.

International air transport: International air traffic is concentrated at Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport, which is the main international hub of the country. Tallinn Airport offers flights to more than 40 cities in Europe, including key destinations such as Helsinki, Riga, Stockholm, Berlin, London, Frankfurt, and others. Estonia actively develops international flights, especially in the summer season, increasing the number of charter destinations to Southern European resorts. In the winter season, flights to the Alps and other ski destinations are popular.

Unified travel card

Description: A contactless card used for fare payment in most types of public transport throughout Estonia. The card can be purchased for 2 euros at various sales points, including R-Kiosk kiosks, post offices, and online shops. Recharging is done online at pilet.ee, via mobile applications, or at sales points.

Personalization: Personalizing the card allows for using concessions and restoring balance in case of loss. The card can be personalized online or at sales points.

Contactless bank cards

In Tallinn and some other cities, you can pay for travel by presenting a contactless bank card to the validator upon entering the vehicle. The system automatically deducts the cost of an hourly ticket.

Features: When using a bank card for fare payment, it is important to note that in case of ticket inspection, the inspector will need to see the card used for payment to confirm the right to travel.

QR tickets

QR tickets can be purchased via the pilet.ee website or mobile app. After purchase, the ticket is sent to the email or saved in the app. Upon entering the vehicle, the QR code at the validator located at the front door needs to be scanned.

Mobile applications

Pilet.ee App: Available for iOS and Android devices, allows for purchasing various types of tickets, topping up the Ühiskaart, and storing QR tickets.

Payment via mobile phone: In some cases, tickets can be purchased by sending a special code via SMS to a short number. Details depend on the region and telecom operator.

Points of Sale and Machines

Kiosks and Shops: Tickets and Ühiskaart are available at R-Kiosk kiosks, post offices, and other points of sale.

Ticket Machines: In some cities, machines have been installed where tickets can be purchased using a bank card.

Features for Tourists and Non-Residents

Tallinn: Permanent residents of Tallinn are entitled to free travel with a personalized Ühiskaart. Tourists and non-residents can use contactless bank cards or purchase tickets via QR codes and Ühiskaart.

Other cities: Each region may have its own specific features of the payment system, so it is recommended to familiarize yourself with local rules in advance.

Ticket Validation

Obligation: Validation is mandatory each time you enter a vehicle, regardless of the payment method.

Process: Place your Ühiskaart, bank card, or QR code on the validator. A green signal confirms successful validation.

Discounts and Concessions

Eligibility for Discounts: Certain categories of passengers, such as children under 7 years old and persons over 65 years old, are entitled to free travel. To receive concessions, you need to have the appropriate documents and, in some cases, a personalized Ühiskaart.

Fines for Fare Evasion

Control: Regular ticket checks are conducted in public transportation.

Fines: Passengers without a valid ticket may be fined up to 40 euros.

Taxis

Traditional Taxi Services: Both large and small companies provide taxi services in Estonia. Among them are Forus Takso, Amigo Takso, and Bongo Takso. You can order a car by phone, via mobile applications, or on the companies' official websites.

Mobile Applications: Popular platforms, such as Bolt and Uber, allow you to quickly call a taxi via a smartphone, track the car's arrival, and pay for the trip cashlessly.

Rates: The cost of a trip depends on the company and the time of day. Typically, the fare includes a boarding fee, cost per kilometer, and, in some cases, hourly payment.

Car Sharing

Forus: The Forus company provides car-sharing services through a mobile app, offering various categories of cars for short-term rental. Users can select a suitable car, book it, and pay for its use via the app.

Terms of Use: To rent a car, you must have a valid driver's license and a bank card for payment. Rates generally depend on the time of use and the distance traveled.

Rental of Electric Scooters and Bicycles

Electric Scooters: In major cities such as Tallinn, electric scooter rental services are available, provided by companies like Bolt, Tuul, and Bird. Rental is done via mobile applications, where you can find the nearest scooter, unlock it, and pay for the ride. Rates typically include an unlocking fee and a per-minute charge.

Bicycles: Bicycle rental systems are less developed, but local rental services are available in some cities. Rental is also done through mobile applications or special terminals.

Rules and Safety

Electric Scooters: New requirements for road insurance for electric scooters and similar vehicles have been introduced in Estonia since December 2024. Users must obtain civil liability insurance if the device's power exceeds certain parameters.

Age Restrictions: Children aged 10 to 15 must have bicycle rights to ride on the road with electric scooters. Drivers under 16 are required to wear a helmet.

Usage Zones: Electric scooters and bicycles are intended for movement on bike paths and sidewalks. In some cases, it is allowed to move on the roadway, following traffic rules.

Payment and Availability

The majority of taxi, car-sharing, and electric scooter rental services accept payment via mobile applications, providing convenience and security for transactions.

Services are available in major cities and tourist centers in Estonia, ensuring mobility for both local residents and visitors.

Yes, it is possible to live comfortably in Estonia without owning a car, especially in major cities and their surroundings. The country offers a well-developed public transportation system and alternative modes of transportation, making a personal car unnecessary. However, in rural and remote areas, public transport may be less frequent, making car ownership more preferable.

In Estonia, the process of obtaining a local driver's license depends on your citizenship and whether you have a valid driver's license from another country.

Driving school training and passing exams

Training: Enroll in an accredited driving school where you will undergo theoretical and practical training.

Medical certificate: Before the exams, you need to obtain a medical certificate confirming your fitness to drive a vehicle. To do this, complete a health condition declaration on the patient portal Terviseportaal.ee and consult your family doctor.

Exams: After completing training, take the theoretical and practical exams at the Estonian Transport Department. You can register for exams through the e-services of the Transport Department.

Receiving the license: After successfully passing the exams, submit an application for a driver's license through the e-services of the Transport Department. Log in using your ID card, Mobiil-ID, or Smart-ID.

Exchanging a foreign driver's license

Citizens of EU/EEA countries: If you have a valid driver's license issued in an EU or EEA country, you can use it in Estonia without exchanging it. However, it is recommended to exchange it for an Estonian license for convenience.

Citizens of other countries: If you have a valid driver's license issued outside the EU/EEA, you can drive in Estonia for 12 months from the date of residency registration. After this period, it must be exchanged for an Estonian license.

Exchange procedure:

Medical certificate: Obtain a medical certificate as described above.

Exams: In some cases, you may need to pass theoretical and/or practical exams. Check the requirements with the Transport Department.

Application: Submit an application for exchanging the driver's license through the e-services of the Transport Department.

Useful resources

Transport Department e-services: On the e-service portal, you can submit applications, register for exams, and obtain information about your driver's license.

Please note that the process of obtaining a driver's license may change, so it's recommended to consult the latest information on the official website of the Estonian Transport Department.

Vehicle registration and technical inspection

All vehicles must be registered with the Estonian Transport Department, and cars undergo regular technical inspections.

Insurance

Mandatory insurance: Vehicle owners are required to arrange road insurance that covers liability to third parties in case of a traffic accident.

Additional insurance: Besides mandatory insurance, owners may arrange comprehensive insurance to protect against damage to their own vehicle.

Taxes and fees

Road tax: In Estonia, there is no annual road tax for passenger cars.

Vehicle tax: From 2024, a vehicle tax is introduced that depends on the mass and environmental characteristics of the car.

Traffic rules

Speed limits: In urban areas, the maximum speed is 50 km/h, outside urban areas – 90 km/h, and on some highway sections – up to 110 km/h.

Use of headlights: Dipped headlights must be on at all times of the day.

Seat belts: Use of seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.

Permissible alcohol level: The maximum permissible blood alcohol content for drivers is 0.2 per mille.

Parking

In city centers, especially in Tallinn, there are paid parking zones. Payment is made through parking meters or mobile applications.

Residents of certain areas can obtain parking permits to park near their residence.

Winter tires

Requirement: The use of winter tires is mandatory from December 1st to March 1st. Depending on weather conditions, this period may be extended.

Additional recommendations

First aid kit and fire extinguisher: Having a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher in the car is mandatory.

Children's seats: Children under the age of 3 must be transported in special child seats that correspond to their weight and height.

Speeding

Minor exceedance: Exceeding the set speed by 1–20 km/h may result in a fine of up to 120 euros.

Significant exceedance: Speeding by more than 20 km/h results in larger fines, which can reach 800 euros, and possible revocation of the driver's license.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Permissible alcohol level: The maximum permissible blood alcohol content for drivers is 0.2 per mille.

Exceeding permissible level: Driving with a blood alcohol level above 0.2 per mille is considered an offense and may lead to a fine of up to 1,200 euros, administrative arrest, and revocation of the driver's license.

Driving under the influence of drugs: Punished similarly to driving under the influence of alcohol, with the possibility of stricter measures depending on circumstances.

Using a mobile phone while driving

Without using hands-free: Using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free system is prohibited and may lead to a fine of up to 400 euros.

Unfastened seat belt

Driver and passengers: Violation of the seat belt usage requirement by all passengers results in a fine of up to 200 euros.

Running a red traffic light

Violation of traffic signal: Running a red light may lead to a fine of up to 800 euros and the imposition of penalty points.

Improper parking

Violation of parking rules: Fines for improper parking vary depending on the location and circumstances but usually range from 20 to 80 euros.

Non-payment of fines

Payment deadlines: Fines for violations must be paid within the period specified in the offense decision (usually within 15 days after the decision is made).

Consequences of non-payment: Unpaid fines within the deadline are automatically transferred to the bailiff for enforced collection, resulting in additional expenses for the debtor.

Methods of paying fines

Bank transfer: Fines can only be paid by bank transfer.

Cash payment: If necessary, the fine for the offense can be paid in cash by using the services of a bank branch.

Appealing fines

Appeal procedure: A person who disagrees with the imposed fine has the right to appeal the decision in the established manner by contacting the appropriate authority or court.

Vehicle registration

Pre-registration:

Submission of documents: Before registration, documents must be submitted for preliminary verification through the e-services of the Transport Department. This includes filling out the necessary forms and uploading the required documents.

Main registration:

In-person visit: After preliminary verification, it is required to visit one of the Transport Department bureaus to complete the registration process. You must bring the original documents proving ownership, identification, and confirmation of payment of state fees.

Obtaining number plates: Upon successful registration, registration number plates and a vehicle registration certificate are issued.

Technical inspection

Inspection frequency:

New vehicles: The first inspection is conducted three years after the initial registration.

Vehicles aged 3 to 10 years: Inspection is required every two years.

Vehicles older than 10 years: Annual technical inspection.

Inspection procedure:

Choice of accredited center: Technical inspection is carried out in accredited centers throughout the country.

Parameter check: During the inspection, the vehicle's safety, emissions, and compliance with other established standards are checked.

Inspection results: Upon successful inspection, a corresponding certificate is issued, confirming the vehicle's suitability for operation.

Additional information

Electronic services: Many procedures related to registration and technical inspection can be completed through the e-services of the Transport Department, simplifying the process for vehicle owners.

Terms and Penalties: Delayed technical inspection or lack of registration may lead to penalties. It is recommended to adhere to the established deadlines and requirements to ensure the legal operation of the vehicle.

For more detailed and up-to-date information, it is recommended to visit the official website of the Estonian Transport Department and use the available e-services.

Use of foreign cars

Short-term stay: Foreign vehicles may temporarily be present in Estonia without registration, usually for up to one year. After this period, the car must either be exported from the country or registered in Estonia.

Documents: The driver must have a valid driver's license, vehicle registration certificate, and valid insurance recognized in Estonia (for example, a "Green Card").

Registration of foreign cars

Need for registration: If you plan to use a foreign car in Estonia for more than a year or become a resident of Estonia, the vehicle must be registered in the country.

Registration procedure:

Customs procedures: For cars from non-EU countries, customs clearance and payment of appropriate duties are required.

Preliminary inspection: Provide the car for pre-registration inspection at the service bureau of the Transport Department.

Documents: Provide the registration certificate, documents proving ownership, and an identity document.

Technical inspection: The car must meet Estonia's safety and environmental standards.

Payment of fees: Pay the registration fees and taxes established by law.

Obtaining license plates: After successful registration, you will be issued Estonian registration numbers and a registration certificate.

Special cases: Cars manufactured for markets outside the EU may not have a European certificate of conformity. In such cases, an individual vehicle type approval procedure is required, which may require additional documents and expenses.

Recommendations

For detailed information and clarification of requirements, consult official sources or visit the Estonian Transport Department website.

Charging stations

Total number: There are over 434 electric vehicle charging stations in Estonia, distributed across various regions.

Main operators:

Enefit Volt: The largest charging network in Estonia, providing 100% green energy and continuously expanding its coverage in the Baltic countries and Poland.

Elektrum Drive: A public charging infrastructure operating in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, with plans to install more than 3,000 charging points by 2030, of which about 1,000 will be located in Estonia.

Alexela: A company actively developing a network of charging stations throughout Estonia, providing easy access to charging for electric vehicle owners.

Types of charging devices:

Ultra-fast chargers: With a capacity of up to 350 kW, they significantly reduce charging time. Such stations are installed, for example, in Häädemeeste and Märjamaa.

Fast chargers: With a capacity of about 150 kW, they provide quick charging in urban areas. Examples of such stations can be found in Tallinn, in the areas of Laagri, Õismäe, and Järve.

Semi-fast chargers: Designed for longer charging periods, suitable for use in long-term parking areas such as shopping centers or office buildings.

Distribution of charging stations

Urban areas: In major cities like Tallinn, Tartu, and Pärnu, there is a high concentration of charging stations, providing easy access for urban residents.

Rural areas: Despite the overall development of the infrastructure, some rural regions experience a lack of charging stations, which can cause inconveniences for electric vehicle owners.

Service centers

Service for electric vehicles: With the increase in the number of electric vehicles in Estonia, the number of specialized service centers offering services for the maintenance and repair of electric vehicles is also growing. Many official dealers and independent car services are expanding their services to meet the needs of electric vehicle owners.