In 2026, drivers in Europe will face stricter penalties for traffic violations. Using a phone while driving, running a red light, or speeding will result in significantly higher fines, and for certain violations, transportation companies will also be fined.
The Netherlands
Traffic fines in the Netherlands will increase by 3–4%. Drivers will have to pay the following amounts:
For using a phone while driving – €440
For running a red light – €320
For not wearing a seat belt – €180
For exceeding the speed limit by more than 4 km/h in urban areas – €37
Germany
Drivers who exceed the allowed driving time by 1 hour will face a €30 fine. Exceeding the limit by 2 hours will result in a €60 fine for the driver and €160 for the transport company.
If a driver skips the mandatory break, the fine may reach €60, and the transport company may be fined up to €180.
Overloading a vehicle by more than 20% of the permitted weight will result in a €425 fine and one penalty point for the driver. The company may be fined up to €850. Using a phone while driving will result in a €150 fine and one penalty point.
Spain
Using a phone while driving will result in a fine of up to €500 and 6 penalty points.
Running a red light will result in a €400 fine and 4 penalty points. Violating driving-time limits and mandatory rest periods will result in fines ranging from €200 to €500.
Italy
Italy will have some of the highest speeding fines in Europe:
Exceeding the speed limit by 10–40 km/h: fine €173–€695 and 3 penalty points
Exceeding by 40–60 km/h: fine €543–€2,170, 6 penalty points, and driver's license suspension for 1–3 months
Exceeding by more than 60 km/h: fine €845–€3,382, 10 penalty points, and license suspension for 6–12 months
Using a phone while driving will result in a fine of €165–€660 and 8 penalty points. A repeated violation may result in a license suspension of 1–3 months. Driving under the influence will result in fines of €543–€6,000, and the license will be suspended for 1–2 years.
France
Using a phone while driving will result in a €135 fine and 3 penalty points. Running a red light: €135 and 4 penalty points. Exceeding the speed limit by more than 30 km/h: €135 and 3 penalty points. Exceeding by more than 50 km/h: €1,500 and 6 penalty points.
Poland
Using a phone while driving: 500 PLN and 12 penalty points. Running a red light: 500 PLN and 15 penalty points. Speeding by 31–40 km/h: 800 PLN, repeated offense – 1,600 PLN. Exceeding speed by more than 71 km/h: 2,500 PLN.
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