Amalfi Coast 
Visiting the Amalfi Coast by car can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to know that during certain times of the year, traffic restrictions are in place. These are called the alternate license plate rules, and they’re designed to protect the landscape and reduce congestion.
Although it may seem confusing at first, once you understand how it works, it’s easy to plan your trips accordingly.
What are alternate license plates?
This system, introduced by the Campania Region, regulates traffic on the famous Amalfi Coast Road (SS163), one of the most scenic (and busiest) routes in Italy. The rule is simple: depending on the last digit of your license plate, you can drive only on certain days.
· On even-numbered days (e.g. 2, 4, 6…), only vehicles with plates ending in even numbers (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) are allowed.
· On odd-numbered days (e.g. 1, 3, 5…), only those with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) can circulate.
The restriction applies from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, during peak traffic hours. For example, if your plate ends in an odd number and you’re planning a drive along the coast on July 10th (an even day), you won’t be allowed to drive on SS163 during those hours.
Where does it apply?
This rule affects only the SS163 Amalfitana, the coastal road that stretches from Vietri sul Mare to Positano, passing through well-known towns like Cetara, Minori, Maiori, Ravello, Amalfi, and Praiano.
Importantly, not all roads are affected. For instance, the Chiunzi Pass Provincial Road (often used to reach Ravello or Maiori from the highway) and the Agerolina Road (SR 366) are not included in the restrictions. These can be useful alternative routes.
These can be useful alternative routes.
When is it enforced?
The alternate plate system is seasonal and only enforced during periods of high tourist traffic. Here are the main dates in 2025:
· April 13 – May 1: every day, including Holy Week and long weekends.
· June 1 – July 31: only on weekends and public holidays.
· August 1 – September 30: every day.
· October: only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (until the 31st).
Be sure to check with your hotel or local authorities for updates before traveling.
Who is exempt?
Not all vehicles are subject to the alternate plate rule. Some are permanently exempt, others can be temporarily exempt with proper documentation:
Permanent exemptions:
· Residents of the Amalfi Coast and Agerola
· Vehicles displaying a disability permit
· Taxis and NCC (chauffeur services)
· Police, emergency, and rescue vehicles
Temporary exemptions (with proof):
· Tourists staying overnight in hotels/B&Bs — only on arrival and departure days
· Commuters with a work contract in a coastal town
· Second home owners, with municipal authorization
Always carry proof of booking or supporting documents in case of a roadside check.
Final Tips
If you’re planning to drive along the Amalfi Coast, it’s essential to plan your itinerary according to the alternate plate schedule.
If you want to enjoy the incredible views stress-free, travel early in the morning or after 6:00 PM, when the rules are no longer in effect.
Otherwise, consider taking public transportation, a scooter, or using an NCC chauffeur service, which are not restricted.
An good alternative is to travel by sea, which connects various locations on the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Naples and Salerno. Here: ferry-schedules-positano-amalfi-capri-salerno-sorrento you can find updated timetables, prices and buy your ticket!
