Türkiye’s parliament is reviewing this week a proposed amendment to the Highway Traffic Law (Karayolları Trafik Kanunu), including sweeping increases in fines and tougher penalties for traffic offences.

Driving without a licence and fake plates

Driving without a licence will carry a TRY 40,000 fine. Using fake or tampered plates, or altering plates so they are illegible, will bring a TRY 140,000 fine and a 30-day vehicle seizure.

Technical equipment requirements

Goods vehicles over 3,500 kg and passenger vehicles with more than 17 seats will be required to use a tachograph (speed and driving-time recorder). Taxis must have an active, valid taximeter.

Failing to give way to emergency vehicles

  • Drivers who fail to give way to vehicles with priority (ambulances, fire engines, rescue and firefighting vehicles) will face fines of up to TRY 46,000 and a 30-day licence suspension.
  • Failing to observe simple right of way (for example towards a police car or ambulance in normal conditions) carries a TRY 15,000 fine.

Speeding

  • Exceeding the urban speed limit by 46–55 km/h → 30-day licence suspension
  • By 56–65 km/h → 60 days
  • By more than 66 km/h → 90-day licence suspension

Noise and dangerous behaviour

  • Vehicles modified to make unauthorised noise will be fined TRY 16,000.
  • Drivers who follow or chase another vehicle in traffic to confront or threaten it will face a TRY 180,000 fine and a 60-day licence suspension; the vehicle will also be seized for 30 days.

Red lights and mobile phones

  • Drivers who cause an accident by running a red light will have their licence suspended for 60 days, with its return subject to a psychotechnical (psikoteknik) assessment.
  • Using a mobile phone or similar device while driving will bring a TRY 5,000 fine.

Street racing and leaving the scene

  • Drivers taking part in illegal street races will face a TRY 46,000 fine and a two-year licence suspension.
  • In accidents causing death or injury, drivers who leave the scene without necessity or police permission will face one to three years in prison.

The amendment aims to improve road safety, reduce fatal accidents and create a serious deterrent against traffic offences. If approved, it will take effect from early 2026.