In Portugal, cars drive on the right. Safety belts must be worn at all times by all passengers, whilst motorcyclists must always wear helmets. Specific legislation is in force banning the use of mobile phones while driving, except when using hands-free equipment.

Maximum speed limits for passenger vehicles without trailers and motorcycles:
In built-up areas: 50km/hora
On main roads: 90km/hora
On clearways: 100km/hora
On motorways: 120km/hora   

Compulsory documents:
Identity card or passport
Driving licence
Insurance certificate
Vehicle log book and proof of ownership

Emergency / S.O.S
In the event of an emergency, dial 112, the national emergency service, free of charge. The call can be answered in three languages: Portuguese, English and French. If you require medical assistance, you should go to the local Health Care Centre. The Hospital Emergency Services must only be used in serious cases.

Hospitals
Faro -  289 891 100
Lagos - 282 770 100
Portimão – 282 450 330

Serviços e Horários
Banks
Monday to Friday: 8h30 – 15h
Closed on Saturdays and official holidays

Correios
Monday to Friday: 9h – 18h
Central post offices and those at airports are open on Saturdays.

Chemists
Monday to Friday: 9h – 13h / 15h – 19h
Saturday: 9h – 13h

Shops
Monday to Friday: 9h – 13h / 15h – 19h
From January to November, shops close at 13:00 on Saturdays,; in December, they are open Monday to Saturday, from 09:00 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00. There are also many shopping malls with shops that are open from 10:00 to 24:00.

Restaurants
For lunch from 12:00 to 15:00 and for dinner from 19:00 to 22:00.

National Museums
Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 to 18:00
Tuesdays: 14:00 - 18:00
Closed on Mondays; Good Friday; Easter Sunday; 1 May and 25 December.

National Palaces
Closed on Wednesdays.