Greece’s new Highway Code came into effect today, September 13, bringing with it stricter penalties and cumulative punishments for repeat traffic violations for both its locals and visitors. Under the updated law, offences will no longer offset each other – each violation is recorded, and penalties escalate for repeat offences, including steep fines, longer license suspensions, and, in severe cases, criminal prosecution.
Using a mobile phone while driving carries a €350 (£300) fine and a 30-day license suspension. For repeated violations, the fine can reach €4,000 (£3,500) and suspensions can be up to eight years. Meanwhile, running a stop sign that results in an accident can also lead to a €4,000 fine and an eight-year suspension. Drunk driving fines now range from €350 to €1,200 (£1,040), with mandatory vehicle impoundment, license removal and jail terms of up to five years for blood alcohol over 1.10 g/l.
Drivers exceeding speed limits by 50 km/h (31mph) face €700 (£606) fines and two-month suspensions, while street racing can result in fines up to €8,000 (£6,900) and four-year suspensions.
Failure to wear a protective helmet while operating vehicles like motorbikes will result in a €350 fine. Passengers who do not comply will also face the same amount, and the same will apply to the driver, even if they are wearing one. Failure to wear a seatbelt will result in fines of €350 for drivers and passengers.
The law also increases fines and penalties for blocking public transport lanes, parking in disabled spots and driving without a license.
From January 2026, new speed limits will be implemented, depending on the type of road, unless otherwise specified by signage.
A new Traffic Code has been deemed necessary a while ago, as traffic accidents with fatal consequences and abandonment of the victim are daily occurrences in the last year.
It is not only in Greece that holidaymakers will need to make sure they are complying with the rules. Brits heading to Spain may need to rethink some of their driving habits, as this one easy mistake could not only cost them their car but also their entire holiday budget. Parking for even a short amount of time in a restricted zone in Spain – including in places such as Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga and Alicante – will be treated as a serious violation.
Typically, fines range from €100–€200 (£85–£170), with an additional cost for towing fees at €100–€150, depending on the city. In addition, daily storage charges of €20–€30 often apply until the very day the vehicle is collected.
