What are Italy's latest lockdown rules on sharing a car or scooter?

A week into Phase Two of Italy's lockdown, the government has clarified the rules on using private transport in its official FAQs.

Here are the key things to remember. 

Passengers must remain a metre apart

While there's no set limit on the number of people who can share a car at once, the driver and all passengers must stay at least a metre apart from one another – so you probably won't be using that middle seat.

No sharing a scooter

You can't give someone a ride on the back of your motorbike or scooter, since you'd inevitably have to break the one-metre rule. 

READ ALSO: How to stay safe on public transport under Italy's lockdown phase two

Photo: Andreas Solaro/AFP

Different rules if you live together

Members of the same household don't have to observe the social distancing rules – so roommates can share a scooter or ride four in a car, for example.

Can someone else give me a lift?

People are being encouraged to avoid public transport where possible, so if you don't drive but know someone who does, they are allowed to pick you up and drop you off – so long as you're travelling for one of the reasons authorised by the government's lockdown rules (buying groceries and other essentials; going to work; visiting a doctor or pharmacy; exercising; seeing relatives).

EXPLAINED: Italy's new rules on going outside in lockdown phase two

Giving a lift to someone else who needs it is considered a legitimate reason to travel. Just remember to maintain a metre's distance, unless you live together.

What about taxis?

You can take a taxi or other private hire vehicle, by yourself or with a maximum of one other passenger.

Wear a face mask and take the back seat: you're not allowed to sit next to the driver.

READ ALSO: Can you go for a walk under Italy's new coronavirus rules?

Photo: Miguel Medina/AFP