ReversingPortugal
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Portugal. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
22. Reversing
Reversing means driving a vehicle backwards. It is commonly used when parking, leaving a confined space or repositioning a vehicle where forward movement is not practical.
Before reversing, the driver should check mirrors and blind spots, look carefully around the vehicle and make sure the area behind is clear. Reversing should be performed slowly and only for as long as necessary because visibility behind the vehicle is often limited.
Wikimedia.org • Kārlis Dambrāns • CC BY
How should Portuguese drivers reverse?
Only as an auxiliary or last-resort manoeuvre, slowly and for the shortest possible distance.
🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • Portugal, Código da Estrada — articles 35, 45–47, 72–73
🔗 ansr.pt • ANSR official RST — corrected 2019 republication, sign descriptions and markings
Can you reverse in heavy Portuguese traffic?
No. Heavy traffic is a prohibited circumstance for reversing.
🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • Portugal, Código da Estrada — articles 35, 45–47, 72–73
🔗 ansr.pt • ANSR official RST — corrected 2019 republication, sign descriptions and markings
Can you reverse on Portuguese motorway access roads?
No. Reversing and U-turns are prohibited on motorways and their duly signed access roads.
🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • Portugal, Código da Estrada — articles 35, 45–47, 72–73
🔗 ansr.pt • ANSR official RST — corrected 2019 republication, sign descriptions and markings

Traffic rules
Portugal