Turkey Introduces Tough New Driving Licence Rules That Could Get Your Licence Cancelled

Turkey Approves New Driving Licence Rules

The Turkish Grand National Assembly has approved the first seven articles of a new omnibus bill that introduces major changes to the country’s driving licence system.

The new legislation creates stricter rules for first-time drivers and for people whose driving licences have previously been cancelled and later restored. The changes are intended to improve road safety by placing new drivers under closer supervision during their first years behind the wheel.

Two-Year Probation Period for New Drivers

Under the new law, anyone receiving a driving licence for the first time will be considered a probationary driver for two years from the date the licence is issued.

The same rule will also apply to drivers whose licences were cancelled for any reason and who later become eligible to obtain a new licence.

When Can a Driving Licence Be Cancelled?

During the two-year probation period, a driver’s licence may be cancelled if they commit certain serious traffic violations.

These include offences that normally result in the temporary suspension of a driving licence, accumulating more than 75 penalty points, driving with a blood alcohol level above 0.20 promille regardless of vehicle type, and repeatedly violating important traffic regulations.

A probationary driver’s licence may also be cancelled after committing three violations related to mandatory pedestrian right of way or the legal requirement for drivers and passengers to use seat belts and other required safety systems.

New Requirements to Obtain a Licence Again

Drivers whose probationary licences are cancelled will not automatically receive a new one.

Instead, they will be required to attend a driving school again and successfully complete all required examinations before receiving a new driving certificate.

Before enrolling in a driving course, applicants must also provide documents confirming that they have passed a psychotechnical assessment and a psychiatric examination showing they are medically fit to drive.

In addition, all outstanding traffic fines must be fully paid, and any legally required waiting period following the licence cancellation or suspension must have expired.

The cancellation of probationary driving licences will be carried out by the traffic police authorities responsible under the law.

Civil Aviation Amendment Also Approved

The bill also includes an amendment to Turkey’s Civil Aviation Law to bring national legislation into line with international civil aviation agreements.

Under the new rules, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure will be responsible for ensuring that appropriate rescue and assistance services are provided to aircraft involved in accidents or emergencies.

Law enforcement agencies and other public authorities will also be required to assist aircraft, flight crews, passengers, and rescue teams during emergency operations.