Cars & Transportation Finland

Trains: Finland's railway network covers most cities and regions, providing long-distance and suburban passenger services. Trains offer comfortable and fast connections between major cities such as Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, and Oulu. In the capital region, there is a suburban train system integrated with other modes of transport.

Buses: Bus routes complement the railway network, connecting settlements not served by trains. In cities and suburbs, buses are the main form of public transport, providing regular and frequent services.

Trams: Tram systems operate in Helsinki and Tampere. In Helsinki, trams are an important part of the city's transport network, covering central areas and adjacent territories. In Tampere, the tram system was launched in 2021 and continues to expand.

Metro: Helsinki has Finland's only metro line, connecting the city center with eastern and western areas, including Espoo. The metro provides fast and reliable transport within the capital region.

Ferries: Ferries play an important role in the transport system, especially in coastal areas and archipelagos. In Helsinki, ferries connect the mainland with the islands.

Air Communication

Finland has a developed system of both international and domestic air communication, providing efficient air transport for residents and guests of the country.

International Air Communication: The main international airport in Finland is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, located in Vantaa, near the capital. The airport serves more than 20 airlines offering direct flights to 162 destinations in over 50 countries worldwide, including more than 100 cities in Europe and the Middle East, over 20 in Asia, and eight in North America.

Domestic Air Communication: Domestic flights are also well developed, providing connections between different regions of the country. Direct flights from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport are available to 15 domestic airports, including Vaasa, Ivalo, Joensuu, Jyväskylä, Kajaani, Kemi, Kittilä, Kokkola, Kuopio, Kuusamo, Mariehamn, Oulu, Rovaniemi, Savonlinna, and Tampere.

In Finland, purchasing public transport tickets has its own features, which are important to consider for comfortable travel.

Zone-based Fare System:

In the capital region (Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa, Kauniainen, and neighboring municipalities), a zonal system divided into zones A, B, C, and D operates. The ticket cost depends on the number of zones crossed. For example, a ticket AB is required for traveling from downtown Helsinki to Espoo, while a ticket ABC is needed for traveling from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport to the city center.

Ways to Purchase Tickets

HSL Mobile App: The most convenient way to purchase tickets in the capital region is through the HSL app, available for iOS and Android devices. In the app, you can purchase single, daily, seasonal, and other types of tickets.

HSL Card: A plastic card that can be topped up with a certain amount or a pass for a specific period. Card top-up is available online, at kiosks, stores, and ticket machines.

Ticket Machines and Sales Points: Tickets can be purchased at machines at metro stations, railway stations, stops, kiosks, and stores.

Types of Tickets

Single Tickets: Valid for a certain period of time (e.g., 80 minutes) and allow transfers between different types of transport (bus, tram, metro, suburban train).

Daily Tickets: Intended for an unlimited number of trips within 1-7 days.

Seasonal Tickets: Suitable for regular trips and can be purchased for a period from 14 to 360 days.

Usage Features

Ticket Inspection: In Finland's public transport, a system of control without turnstiles is in place. Passengers are required to have a valid ticket and present it upon request by controllers. The fine for fare evasion is 80 euros.

Ticket Validity Period: The ticket must be purchased before boarding the vehicle or entering the metro platform. The validity period of the ticket starts from the moment of purchase.

Additional Services

Integration with other modes of transportation: When purchasing long-distance train tickets through the VR Matkalla app, you can add a local transport ticket, ensuring a convenient transfer and saving time.

Taxi

Ordering and payment: Taxis can be ordered via mobile apps, by phone, or at specialized stands. Payment is accepted in cash, by bank cards, and through mobile payment systems.

Rates: The cost of the trip depends on the time of day, distance, and duration of the trip. Rates may be higher at night and on weekends. It is recommended to confirm the cost before starting the trip.

Licensing: All taxis in Finland must have the appropriate license confirming their right to carry passengers.

Among the most popular taxi services are

Taksi Helsinki: The largest taxi company in the metropolitan area, providing services through a mobile app, by phone, and at specialized stands.

Lähitaksi: Serves Helsinki and surrounding areas, offering a wide range of services, including group transport and specialized transport solutions.

Kovanen: Known for its high level of service and variety of vehicles, including premium-class.

Menevä: Offers taxi services through a mobile app, with a focus on convenience and accessibility.

Uber: An international service legally operating in Finland since 2018; provides services through a mobile app.

Car-sharing

Availability: Car-sharing services are available in major cities such as Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku. Users can rent a car short-term through mobile apps.

Among the most well-known car-sharing companies are:

Share Now: An international service offering car rental in Helsinki. Users can book and pay for rentals via a mobile app.

Go Now: A Finnish company providing car-sharing services in the metropolitan area. The fleet consists of eco-friendly vehicles, including electric cars.

City Car Club: One of the first car-sharing services in Finland, offering car rentals in Helsinki and Tampere. The company provides various tariff plans for user convenience.

Electric Scooter Rental

Operators: Several companies operate in Finland providing electric scooter rental services, including VOI, Tier, Lime, UFO.

Usage: To rent, you need to download the operator's app, register, find the nearest scooter via the map in the app, unlock it by scanning the QR code, and start the ride. Upon completing the ride, the scooter is left in a designated area, and the rental is completed through the app.

Rules: Electric scooters are meant for use on bike lanes. The maximum speed is usually limited to 20 km/h. Users are required to follow traffic rules and park scooters in a way that doesn't obstruct pedestrians or vehicles.

Bicycle Rental

City Bicycles: In major cities such as Helsinki, a city bike rental system operates. Users can take a bike from one of the many stations and return it to any other station.

Subscriptions: Various subscription options are available—from single rides to seasonal passes. Payment is made through a mobile app or at rental stations.

Rules: Cyclists are required to follow traffic rules, use bike lanes, and equip the bicycle with lights and reflectors in the dark.

Among the companies providing bicycle rental services are:

CityBike, Greenbike, BikesBooking.com, DrakkarSport. In many Finnish cities, bike shops offer bicycle rental services. For example, in Oulu and Korpilahti, you can find such shops offering rentals for a day or several hours.

Living without a car in Finland is quite possible and convenient, especially in urban and suburban areas. The country has a developed public transport system that facilitates efficient movement across most settlements. In more remote and rural areas, public transport may be less developed, making it difficult to move around without a personal car. In such cases, having personal transportation becomes more relevant.

Obtaining a local driving license in Finland depends on your residency status and possession of a foreign driving license.

Exchange of a foreign driving license

Citizens of EU/EEA countries: If you have a valid driving license issued in an EU or EEA country, you can use it in Finland until it expires. You can also exchange it for a Finnish license provided you have been residing or studying in Finland for at least 6 months.

Citizens of countries that have signed the Geneva or Vienna Conventions: You can drive in Finland with your national license for two years from the start of your permanent residency. To exchange it for a Finnish license, you need to apply within those two years and before your license expires. If your foreign license has expired or you have been living in Finland for more than two years, you must pass theoretical and practical exams.

Obtaining a Finnish driving license from scratch: If you do not have a valid foreign driving license, the process to obtain a Finnish license includes the following steps:

- Driving school training: You must take a course that includes theoretical lessons, practical driving lessons, and risk management training. Training can be conducted in Finnish, Swedish, or English.

- Medical certificate: Before applying, you need to obtain a medical certificate confirming your fitness to drive. The certificate is valid for 6 months.

- Exams: After completing the training, you must pass a theoretical exam and a driving test. The exams are conducted at Ajovarma offices, official partners of Traficom.

- Application submission: The driving license application is submitted at an Ajovarma office. You must bring an ID, medical certificate, and photos. After successfully passing the exams and processing your application, you will be issued a Finnish driving license.

Additional recommendations

Language of instruction: If you do not speak Finnish or Swedish, it is recommended to find a driving school that offers training in English or your native language.

Timeframe: The process of obtaining a driving license may take several months, including training, exams, and document processing.

Cost: Driving school training, medical certificates, exams, and state fees are chargeable. Costs may vary depending on the region and the chosen driving school.

Car registration

New and used cars: A purchased car, whether new or used, must be registered in Finland.

Imported cars: If you import a car from abroad, you need to submit a deployment declaration and pay vehicle tax.

Insurance

Liability insurance is mandatory, covering damage caused to third parties. Additionally, you can arrange full coverage to protect your car against damage.

Technical inspection

Cars over three years old are subject to an annual technical inspection.

Taxes and fees

Vehicle tax: An annual tax, the amount of which depends on the type of car, its weight, and CO₂ emissions level. Invoices are sent to the owner, and timely payment is mandatory.

Diesel tax: An additional tax for diesel car owners, charged due to the lower cost of diesel fuel.

Traffic rules

Speed limits: In populated areas — 50 km/h, outside populated areas — 80 km/h, on highways — up to 120 km/h. Adherence to limits is strictly controlled, and fines for speeding are significant.

Use of headlights: Low beam headlights must be on at all times.

Winter tires: From November 1st to March 31st, using winter tires is mandatory. Studded tires are allowed from November 1st to the first Monday after Easter.

Parking: Parking zones are marked with signs, and payment is often required. In cities, there are limited-time parking zones where parking discs must be used. Violating parking rules may result in fines and vehicle towing.

Environmental Aspects: Finland aims to reduce emissions, so owners of low CO₂ emission vehicles may receive tax benefits. Electric cars and hybrids are supported by the state, including purchase subsidies and tax reductions.

Key Points

There are no toll roads in Finland; the use of roads is free for all vehicles. Finnish road infrastructure is financed through taxes, including fuel excises and transport taxes.

In coastal areas and on the lakes of Finland, there are ferry crossings, some of which may charge a fee. However, most state-operated ferries are free for passengers and vehicles.

The country has no toll bridges or tunnels. All such structures are in public use without additional charges.

In Finland, compliance with traffic rules is strictly monitored, and various penalties are provided for violations, including fines, temporary or permanent revocation of driver's licenses, and, in particularly serious cases, imprisonment.

Traffic Violation Fines

Administrative fines: Applied for minor violations, such as slight speeding over the limit or minor parking violations. The fine amount is fixed and usually ranges from 20 to 200 euros, depending on the nature of the violation.

Monetary fines: Imposed for more serious violations, including significant speeding, running a red light, or using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free device. The amount of the fine is calculated based on the offender's daily income and can vary significantly.

Notification of Traffic Violations

In Finland, notification of a traffic violation and imposition of a fine is carried out in various ways, depending on the nature of the violation and the method of its recording.

Violations recorded by automatic cameras

Local residents: A fine notice is sent by mail to the registered address of the vehicle owner.

Foreign citizens: Information about the violation is transmitted to the border service. A fine notice may be issued upon exiting the country or upon re-entry into Finland.

Violations recorded by police on the spot

Local residents and foreign citizens: The police officer hands the fine receipt personally to the driver at the scene of the violation. In the absence of the driver, for example, in the case of improper parking, the receipt may be placed under the car's wiper.

Innovations in Fine Notifications

Starting December 2023, Finland introduced the possibility to receive fine notifications in electronic format through the Suomi.fi service. This applies to cases where the police on-site documents the violation and verifies the driver's identity. Thus, instead of a paper document, the fine can be sent electronically.

Recommendations for Foreign Citizens

Checking notifications: When leaving Finland or upon re-entry, it is recommended to check with border services for any possible fines to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Payment of fines: Fines can be paid at any bank in Finland. If unable to pay the fine on the spot, it is recommended to contact the relevant Finnish authorities for clarification on payment methods from abroad.

Payment of Fines

Payment of a traffic violation fine in Finland is possible for both local residents and foreign citizens. The payment procedure depends on the type of fine and your location.

Police Fine

In Finland: The fine can be paid at any bank by providing the receipt with the details.

From abroad: Payment is possible via international bank transfer. Use the following details:

Recipient: Oikeusrekisterikeskus

Bank: NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC

IBAN: FI2216603000108681

SWIFT/BIC: NDEAFIHH

Bank address: Aleksanterinkatu 36, FI-00020 NORDEA, Finland

In the "Payment Reference" field, indicate the reference number ("viitenumero") listed on the receipt.

Parking Fine

In Finland: Payment is made at a bank using the details specified on the notice.

From abroad: Paying a parking fine from outside Finland may be difficult as some municipalities do not accept international transfers. It is recommended to contact the issuing authority to clarify the possibility and methods of payment.

Customs Fine

In Finland: Payment can be made at any bank using the details specified on the notice.

From abroad: Use the following details for an international transfer:

Recipient: Tullilaitos (Customs)

Bank: NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC

IBAN: FI2616603000102304

SWIFT/BIC: NDEAFIHH

Bank Address: Aleksanterinkatu 36, FI-00020 NORDEA, Finland

In the "Payment purpose" field, enter the reference number ("viitenumero") from the notice.

Recommendations

Payment Deadlines: Pay the fine within the specified timeframe to avoid additional charges or issues with future visits to Finland.

Document Retention: Keep copies of the notices and payment confirmations in case of future inquiries.

Contact Information: If you have questions or have lost the notice, contact the respective authority:

Oikeusrekisterikeskus: Phone: +358 29 566 5662, Email: oikeusrekisterikeskus@om.fi

Customs: Phone: +358 29 552 0151

License Suspension

Temporary Suspension: Can be imposed for serious or repeated offenses, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, significant speeding, or creating serious road hazards. The suspension period varies from one month to several years, depending on the severity of the offense and previous infractions.

Permanent Revocation: In particularly serious cases, such as multiple violations of driving under the influence or committing vehicle-related crimes, driving licenses may be revoked indefinitely.

Criminal Liability

The most serious offenses, such as driving under heavy intoxication, causing serious injury, or death as a result of a traffic accident, are subject to criminal liability, including imprisonment. The sentencing depends on the specific circumstances of the case and can reach several years of incarceration.

Additional Measures

Compulsory Training: In some cases, offenders may be required to attend additional road safety courses or rehabilitation programs.

Use of Alcohol Interlocks: For persons deprived of driving rights due to driving under the influence, the possibility of installing an alcohol interlock in the vehicle may be provided, allowing the restoration of driving rights under certain conditions.

In Finland, the process of vehicle registration and inspection is regulated by the Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom). These procedures are mandatory to ensure road safety and compliance with environmental standards.

Vehicle Registration

New Cars: When purchasing a new car, the dealer typically completes the registration on behalf of the buyer. The owner must provide the necessary documents and arrange compulsory liability insurance.

Used Cars: When buying a used car, you need to transfer the ownership rights. This can be done online via Traficom services or in person at service points. The buyer must ensure valid insurance is in place and pay the relevant taxes.

Imported Cars: When importing a car from abroad, a declaration of commission and a vehicle tax (Autovero) must be filed. After this, the car must pass a registration inspection to ensure compliance with Finnish standards.

Technical Inspection

Frequency: New passenger cars undergo their first inspection four years after initial registration, then every two years until they are ten years old, after which the inspection is annual.

Procedure: The inspection includes checking the technical condition of the car, emission levels, safety systems operability, and adherence to mandatory requirements. Successful inspections result in a certificate confirming the vehicle's roadworthiness.

Owner's Responsibility: The owner is obliged to monitor the inspection deadlines. Operating a vehicle without a valid inspection is prohibited and may result in fines.

Additional Requirements

Insurance: Mandatory civil liability insurance must be obtained before vehicle registration; registration without valid insurance is not possible.

Taxes: Vehicle owners are required to pay an annual vehicle tax, which depends on the type of vehicle and CO₂ emission levels.

Temporary Use of Foreign Vehicles

Permanent residents of Finland: Individuals permanently residing in Finland generally do not have the right to operate foreign-registered vehicles within the country. Exceptions are possible in special cases, for example, when temporarily using a company car registered abroad.

Foreign residents and tourists: Individuals permanently residing outside of Finland may use their foreign-registered vehicles in the country without paying taxes under the following conditions:

- Permanent residence is located abroad.

- The vehicle is registered abroad.

- Use of the vehicle in Finland does not exceed six months within a 12-month period.

Extension of Tax-Free Use: If the stay in Finland exceeds six months but the permanent residence remains abroad, one can apply for an extension of the tax-free use of the vehicle up to one year. The application should be submitted to the Finnish Tax Administration before the end of the initial six-month period.

Registration of Imported Vehicles

When importing a vehicle into Finland for permanent use, it is necessary to:

- Submit a notice of placing the vehicle into operation before its use begins.

- Pay the vehicle tax.

- Pass a technical inspection to verify compliance with Finnish standards.

- Register the vehicle with the Transport and Communications Agency.

Required Documents:

- Documents proving ownership.

- Certificates of conformity and technical data of the vehicle.

- Proof of payment of taxes and fees.

Insurance: Before using the vehicle in Finland, mandatory civil liability insurance valid within the country must be obtained. If the vehicle is insured in a country that is part of the "Green Card" system, a valid "Green Card" must be carried.

Finland is actively developing infrastructure for electric vehicles, aiming for environmentally friendly transportation and reducing CO₂ emissions.

Charging Stations

By the end of 2023, Finland had about 12,000 public charging points for passenger cars and vans. Charging stations are located throughout the country, providing accessibility within a 50 km radius in nearly any region. Major service station networks, such as ABC, St1, and Neste, are actively building high-performance charging stations along main highways.

Service Centers

With the increase in the number of electric vehicles, the number of service centers specializing in their maintenance is also growing. Many official dealers and independent workshops offer services for the diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of electric vehicles.

Service centers are investing in training specialists to work with high-voltage systems and specific components of electric vehicles, ensuring quality and safe maintenance.

Prospects

It is projected that by 2030, there will be about 500,000 fully electric vehicles in Finland, which will comprise approximately 18% of the total passenger car fleet.

To meet growing demand, a significant expansion of the charging station network is planned, including the installation of ultra-fast chargers and the development of infrastructure for freight transport.