Buses are reliable and inexpensive. In the Azores, driving can be treacherous due to narrow cobblestone streets, blind curves, unprotected embankments, herds of cows in the countryside roads, and the high speeds of other drivers. In contrast to the continent, traffic violations are registered by radar and later forwarded to the offender via the postal service - payments are not made on the spot. Taxis do not have meters. The fare consists of a base fee plus a posted rate per kilometer traveled.
Public buses are inexpensive.
Bus services begin at 7 a.m. and generally operate until 8 p.m. depending on the destination. U.S. visitors to Portugal may drive with a valid U.S. driver's license for up to six months. For international driving permits, please contact AAA in the U.S. at tel. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at tel. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at tel.