Fines and Penalties for Traffic Violations in Europe
Driving across Europe requires not only knowledge of traffic rules but also an awareness of the fines for violations. Each country has different penalties for breaking the law, and some are stricter than others in enforcing traffic regulations.
This guide provides an overview of the most common traffic fines in European countries, including speeding penalties, mandatory vehicle equipment rules, and other infractions that could cost you a significant amount of money.
Fines and Penalties for Traffic Violations in Europe
Driving across Europe requires not only knowledge of traffic rules but also an awareness of the fines for violations. Each country has different penalties for breaking the law, and some are stricter than others in enforcing traffic regulations.
This guide provides an overview of the most common traffic fines in European countries, including speeding penalties, mandatory vehicle equipment rules, and other infractions that could cost you a significant amount of money.
Speeding Violations
Speeding is one of the most frequently fined offenses in Europe. The amount of the fine depends on the country, the level of excess speed, and the type of road where the violation occurred (highway, city, or residential area).
Exceeding the speed limit by 20 km/h (urban areas)
Germany: from €70
Austria: from €50
France: from €135
Italy: from €175
Spain: from €100
Switzerland: from €190
Exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h (urban areas)
Germany: from €560 + driving ban
Austria: from €300
France: up to €1,500 + license suspension
Italy: up to €2,000 + driving ban
Spain: up to €600
Switzerland: up to €3,000 + possible imprisonment
Exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h (highways)
Germany: from €240 + driving ban
Austria: from €150
France: up to €1,500
Italy: up to €2,000
Spain: up to €600
Switzerland: up to €3,000
Some countries, such as Switzerland and Norway, calculate speeding fines based on the driver’s income. In extreme cases, violations can result in imprisonment.
Drinking and Driving
The legal blood alcohol limit varies across Europe. Some countries have a zero-tolerance policy, while others allow small amounts.
Legal blood alcohol limits
Germany: 0.5 ‰ (0.0 ‰ for novice drivers)
Austria: 0.5 ‰
France: 0.5 ‰
Italy: 0.5 ‰
Spain: 0.5 ‰ (0.3 ‰ for professional drivers)
Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary: 0.0 ‰
Fines for exceeding the limit
Germany: from €500 (first offense)
Austria: from €300 to €5,900
France: from €135 to €4,500
Italy: from €530 to €6,000, with possible vehicle confiscation
Spain: from €500 to €1,000
Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary: from €200 to €1,000, with potential license suspension
In some countries, such as Italy and France, authorities can confiscate driving documents or even the vehicle if a driver is caught under the influence.
Other Fines
Running a Red Light and Failing to Yield
Running a red light is considered a serious offense in many European countries and can result in high fines and even license suspension.
Germany: from €90, up to €360 if other road users are endangered
France: €135 and 4 penalty points
Italy: from €167 to €655
Spain: €200
Austria: from €70
Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
Most European countries have strict laws regarding mobile phone use while driving. In France, for example, even stopping at the roadside does not allow you to use your phone. Hands-free systems are permitted in these countries, but some additional restrictions may apply.
Germany: €100 (€200 if an accident occurs)
France: €135
Italy: from €165 to €660
Austria: €50
Spain: €200
Mandatory Vehicle Equipment and Technical Condition
Each country has different requirements for mandatory vehicle equipment. Failure to have the required equipment can result in fines.
Reflective vest: Mandatory in most EU countries, including France, Austria, Spain, and Italy. Fines range from €30 to €150.
First aid kit: Mandatory in Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Fines start at €30.
Fire extinguisher: Required in Belgium, Poland, and several other countries.
Winter tires: Mandatory in winter months in Austria, Germany, and Sweden. Fines can be as high as €5,000.
Illegal Parking and Restricted Zones
Parking rules differ between countries, especially in major city centers. Many cities have blue parking zones where prepaid parking is required. In Italy, ZTL zones (Zona a Traffico Limitato) exist in city centers, where only residents and authorized vehicles are allowed. Foreign drivers entering these areas can easily receive a fine.
Germany: €20–€70, with potential towing in larger cities
France: €35–€135, with stricter rules in some cities (e.g., Paris)
Italy: €40–€350, with high fines for parking in blue zones without a permit
Spain: €100–€200, with possible vehicle towing