Greece implements stricter driving license regulations

New regulations under the updated Greek Highway Code (KOK) introduce stricter penalties and mandatory re-examinations for drivers committing serious offenses. Under Article 110, drivers who commit specific major violations twice within a five-year period will no longer have their licenses automatically returned after their penalty period ends. Instead, they must undergo mandatory training and pass new examinations to regain driving privileges.

Serious offenses triggering these measures include driving under the influence of alcohol, violating stop signs or no-entry signs, illegal U-turns, running red lights, street racing, and speeding in excess of 200 km/h. Other violations include failure to use seatbelts or helmets. The new code also emphasizes caution at intersections, particularly regarding flashing orange lights with arrows, which can cause confusion between vehicle movement and pedestrian rights.

Recent incidents, such as a 90-year-old driver operating a vehicle in the wrong lane on the Attiki Odos with an expired license, have highlighted the need for these stricter enforcement measures. Penalties for certain violations can reach up to 4,000 euros and include license suspensions for up to eight years.