Italian transport infrastructure is regarded as one of the worlds' finest and driving laws are very strictly enforced by the police as well as speed traps. Fastening your seat belts is mandatory in the front and back seats of the car at any age.
Driving in some of Italy's motorways is subjected to a toll. As you approach the toll booths, take the lane which is marked "Biglietto" ("ticket") or the one without a sign. Make sure to save your ticket until you leave the freeway. Note that tolls are collected in some tunnels around Italy as well (for example, the Mont Blanc)
Fuel: Unleaded petrol (95 and 98 octane), diesel (Gasolio) and LPG are available in Italy. Using your car lights is mandatory when driving out of town, passing a tunnel or driving in bad weather. If you plan to ski, it is highly recommended that you order a car with winter tires and/or snow chains in advance. Both are important for your personal driving safety as well as for the car's grip on the road during bad weather. Note that in Valle d'Aosta winter tires are mandatory between October 15 and April 15. Also, during winter time it is mandatory to have winter tires when entering Switzerland, Austria and sometimes Germany.
Car entrance to historical sites in many cities is forbidden with cars, especially in Rome and Florence. Make sure not to breach the traffic sign marked ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato). Entering such areas normally results in a fine by post and handling fees by the car rental agency.