Road rules and safety - Your Europe (2024)

There are no EU-wide laws on road traffic rules and safety. However, there are some rules that apply in all EU countries such as the following:

• you must wear a seat belt in all vehicles, including tourist coaches and minibuses
• children must have appropriate child restraints in cars and lorries (and, where possible in other vehicles)
• it is forbidden to use a mobile phone without a hands-free set while driving.

National traffic rules

EU countries can have different rules in many areas, such as:

• the maximum blood alcohol level (some countries do not allow any alcohol in the blood while driving)
• speed limits for different types of roads and vehicles
• required safety equipment in cars and for cyclists
• the mandatory use of daytime running lights and/or winter tyres
• driving on the left side of the road (Cyprus, Ireland and Malta).

Find specific information on the rules that apply in your home country and any other EU country you intend to visit or transit.

Traffic offences

To improve road safety and reduce fatalities, EU countries exchange information on road-safety-related traffic offences. This means that if you commit a driving offence while driving in another country, you could find yourself receiving the fine by post at home!

See also:

• driving licence and insurance when travelling abroad
• hiring a car in another EU country