New fines for traffic violations and changes to them
Fines for not wearing a seat belt have become higher
One of the changes concerns seat belt use. Failure to wear a seat belt now carries a fine of €150 to €300. Previously, a similar violation carried a significantly lower fine of €50 to €90.
Penalties for using a phone while driving
Penalties for using a mobile phone while driving in violation of established regulations have also been increased. The fine for this violation ranges from €150 to €400. The same range of penalties applies for violating seat belt requirements.
Severe Fines for Speeding
Penalties for exceeding the speed limit have been significantly increased. The penalty depends on the magnitude of the excess and the specific circumstances of the violation.
Alcohol and Drugs: Fines Can Reach €2,000
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains one of the most serious offenses.
Refusal to undergo an alcohol test carries fines ranging from €600 to €2,000. Driving under the influence of drugs or other psychoactive substances carries a fine of €300 to €2,000.
Running a red light and ignoring police orders
Severe penalties are imposed for the most dangerous actions on the road.
Running a red light and certain other serious violations carry a fine of €300 to €2,000. Failure to comply with a police officer's order to stop carries a fine of €500 to €2,000, and in certain cases, license revocation is possible.
Unregistered or technically defective vehicles
The new penalties affect not only driving style but also the technical condition of the vehicle.
Driving an unregistered or technically defective vehicle carries fines of €300 to €1,000. Driving without a driver's license can result in a fine of €500 to €2,000.
Before driving, car owners are advised to check the vehicle's registration, technical condition, and availability of all required documents.
Changes for Young Drivers
One important aspect of the new law is the additional restrictions for young drivers. The new rules include special requirements and restrictions aimed at reducing the risk of accidents involving novice drivers.
This is especially relevant for families who purchase or rent a car in Montenegro and transfer it to young family members. Before driving, it is important to ensure that the driver meets the established requirements and restrictions.
New Rules for Children and Passengers
Child safety has been given increased attention. Higher fines are imposed for transporting a child without an appropriate child seat or in violation of established requirements. Depending on the specific violation, fines can range from €80 to €250, and for certain violations related to transporting children, penalties can reach €600.
What drivers in Montenegro need to know in 2026
After the new rules come into force, drivers should be especially careful to adhere to the following basic requirements:
Do not exceed the speed limit;
Do not drive after drinking alcohol;
Do not drive under the influence of drugs or psychoactive substances;
Always wear seat belts;
Do not use a mobile phone while driving;
Properly transport children;
Do not ignore requests from police officers;
Do not drive an unregistered or technically faulty vehicle;
Obey traffic rules at intersections and traffic lights;
Check vehicle documents and registration expiration date.
