Italy proposes Highway Code reform for autonomous driving and traffic rules

The Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has launched a public consultation for a major reform of the Highway Code (Codice della Strada), with the consultation period running until September 13, 2026. The proposed legislative changes aim to modernize traffic management, reduce bureaucracy, and introduce specific regulations for emerging technologies.

Key proposals include the formal introduction of legal frameworks for autonomous driving, defining categories such as automated and fully automated vehicles. Under these rules, a ‘controller’ would remain on board to be responsible for the vehicle's movement. Additionally, the reform addresses speed camera regulations, allowing single devices to perform multiple functions, such as monitoring both speed and traffic light violations simultaneously.

For motorcyclists, the draft includes measures to allow scooters and motorcycles to use emergency lanes during heavy traffic or accidents, provided emergency vehicles can still pass. The reform also proposes halving fines for illegal parking by motorcycles to ensure penalties are proportionate to the vehicle's size. Furthermore, the notification period for traffic fines would be reduced from 90 to 30 days.