On the morning of May 26, 1968, Iceland executed a notable transition in its road traffic regulations, switching from left-hand driving to right-hand driving. This change aimed to enhance road safety and bring Iceland in line with the majority of European countries where right-hand driving was the norm. The government undertook extensive planning to facilitate this transition, which involved changing road signs, updating traffic signals, and educating the public about the new driving rules. Various media platforms were utilized to inform citizens about the impending change, ensuring that drivers were adequately prepared for the switch. The changeover was scheduled for 5 AM, a time selected to reduce the risk of accidents as fewer people were expected to be on the roads.

In preparation for this substantial overhaul, officials installed more than 4,000 new directional signs, and roads were modified to accommodate right-handed driving. Vehicles were also equipped with appropriate modifications, ensuring compliance with the new regulations. During the transition, drivers were encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to the new rules; heightened police presence was noted to enforce the change effectively. The event was closely monitored to assess public response and compliance.

The choice to transition from left to right driving reflected Iceland’s desire to keep pace with international standards for road traffic, especially as tourism began to rise. By aligning with the driving standards in neighboring countries, Iceland aimed to make it easier for visitors to navigate the roads, thus boosting the tourism industry. Although the change initially sparked some confusion among the populace, the switch was celebrated as a success with minimal incidents reported, showcasing the effectiveness of the public preparation strategies that had been enacted prior to the change.