Cross-border route
Sweden Finland
Sweden 
FinlandDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Sweden into Finland, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Finland expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The road crosses the Torne River between Tornio and Haparanda in the north.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromSweden
ToFinland
IDP in FinlandRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in FinlandEUR
Sweden → Finland
Crossing the border
The road crosses the Torne River between Tornio and Haparanda in the north.
Driving rules in Finland
- Headlights on at all times.
- Winter tyres mandatory in winter conditions.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Watch for elk/reindeer on rural roads.
What to see when you arrive in Finland
- the Lapland and Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
- the Helsinki Cathedral and Suomenlinna
- the Finnish Lakeland
- the northern lights of the Arctic
- the Åland archipelago
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Sweden to Finland?
Yes — Finland requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Finland recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Sweden and Finland?
No. Both Sweden and Finland drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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