A major amendment to Turkey’s Highway Traffic Law has officially been passed by the Turkish Grand National Assembly. With the new regulation now in force, penalties for speeding, running red lights, drunk driving, driving without a license, drifting, dangerous lane switching, and aggressive behavior in traffic have been significantly increased.
In some cases, authorities will now confiscate driver’s licenses and even ban vehicles from traffic altogether.
Tougher Penalties to Improve Road Safety
The new law was introduced to strengthen traffic safety and prevent rule violations. Lawmakers argue that heavier fines and stricter enforcement will serve as a deterrent against reckless driving.
Speeding fines have been sharply increased, both inside and outside residential areas. The higher the speed violation, the higher the penalty. In severe cases, driver’s licenses will be suspended for 30, 60, or even 90 days depending on how much the speed limit is exceeded.
Driving Without a License and License Suspensions
Driving without a valid driver’s license now carries a very heavy administrative fine. Those whose licenses have been temporarily suspended but continue driving will face extremely high penalties. If a driver’s license has been officially revoked and the person still drives, the fine is even higher.
Vehicle owners who allow unlicensed drivers to use their cars will also be fined.
Red Light Violations Now Much More Expensive
Running a red light now starts with a monetary fine, but repeat offenses within one year will result in dramatically higher penalties. The more frequently the rule is violated, the steeper the fine becomes.
Drift, Dangerous Maneuvers, and Aggressive Driving
Dangerous lane switching (known as “makas”), drifting, blocking traffic intentionally, or driving in the opposite direction on highways will now result in extremely high administrative fines.
In addition to fines, driver’s licenses will be suspended and vehicles may be banned from traffic for a certain period.
Motorcyclists performing dangerous stunts such as wheelies or other acrobatic movements that endanger traffic safety will also face heavy fines, license suspension, and vehicle bans.
Drivers whose licenses are suspended must undergo a psychotechnical evaluation before getting their license back. Repeat serious offenders within five years risk having their licenses fully revoked and will need to attend driving school again to obtain a new certificate.
Drunk Driving and Drug Use
Penalties for drunk driving have increased dramatically. Drivers found to have alcohol levels above the legal limit will now face much higher fines than before. Repeat offenders will pay substantially more, and persistent violations can result in extremely severe penalties.
Drivers found to be under the influence of drugs or stimulants will face a large fine and automatic license revocation. Criminal proceedings under the Turkish Penal Code may also apply.
Refusing alcohol or drug testing when requested by authorities will also lead to a heavy fine and a long-term license suspension.
Aggressive Pursuit and Road Rage
Drivers who deliberately follow another vehicle aggressively or exit their car with hostile intent will face very high administrative fines. Their licenses may be suspended and their vehicles temporarily banned from traffic.
Failing to Yield to Emergency Vehicles
Not giving way to ambulances, fire trucks, or emergency response vehicles will now result in a significant fine and temporary license suspension.
Mobile Phone Use While Driving
Using a mobile phone while driving now carries higher penalties. Repeat violations within one year will trigger escalating fines and license suspensions.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Drivers who leave the scene of a traffic accident involving injury or death without authorization may face prison sentences ranging from one to three years. In addition, their driver’s licenses will be suspended for two years.
Ignoring a Police “Stop” Warning
Failing to comply with a police stop order during traffic inspections will result in a very high fine. The driver’s license will be suspended and the vehicle may be banned from traffic for 60 days.
With these sweeping changes, Turkey has entered a new era in traffic enforcement. The message from lawmakers is clear: stricter penalties are now in place to improve road safety and discourage dangerous behavior behind the wheel.
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Turkey introduces sweeping changes to traffic fines, increasing penalties for speeding, drunk driving, red light violations, drifting, and aggressive driving. Here’s what drivers need to know.
