Slovakia transport and road safety regulation updates

Slovakia has introduced new legislative measures aimed at enhancing road safety and regulating modern transport technologies.

In mid-September 2026, the National Council approved a legal framework for fully automated vehicles, scheduled to take effect on December 1, 2026. This law requires operators to obtain Ministry of Transport licenses following testing and police consultation. It also mandates technical supervision through a control center capable of bringing vehicles to a “minimum safe state” to protect life and property. Under these regulations, operators must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver's license for at least three years, and be employed by the license holder. Fines for operating without a license can reach 50,000 euros.

Separately, new traffic regulations implemented on September 1 introduced stricter penalties for speeding and expanded sobriety rules. Drivers exceeding speed limits by significant margins—specifically more than 50 km/h in built-up areas or 60 km/h outside of them—face fines up to 1,300 euros and driving bans of up to three years. Furthermore, alcohol and drug prohibitions now extend to certain passengers on motorcycles, quad bikes, and multi-person bicycles if their condition could influence vehicle stability or driver attention.

Looking ahead to October 1, 2026, Slovakia will implement an automated system to monitor compulsory third-party liability insurance (PZP). The state will use database cross-referencing to identify uninsured vehicles. Owners of vehicles without valid insurance for more than 30 days may face repeated fines ranging from 120 to 900 euros, with penalties doubling for subsequent offenses.