The elemental contents, pollution characteristics and sources of major, trace and rare earth elements (REEs) in road dusts (RDs) from Tehran, Iran were studied. The study adopted a combined approach by defining the variability patterns among different land uses and seasons and revealed the influence on environmental quality through various contamination and risk indices. The results indicated that RDs were significantly enriched by Ca, Bi, Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn, presenting concentrations 6–8 times higher than background levels. A relation among elemental contents and land use activities was evidenced with enhanced concentrations being recorded in the commercial area with dense traffic activity, while seasonality was observed for a number of elements with elevated levels during summer. Pollution load index (PLIsite) values revealed a high impacted area, while the estimated PLIarea exhibited a decreasing order of HFT (Haft-tir) > AZD (Azadi) > SHR (Shahrrey). Five distinct sources were resolved in PCA (Principal Component Analysis) with traffic related sources prevailing (30.4%) the total variance. REEs pattern revealed an enrichment of light REEs (LREEs) relative to heavy REEs (HREEs), while slightly enhanced LREEs levels were shown in the traffic area suggesting a complimentary anthropogenic input.