Italy's new Codice della Strada reforms (Law 177/2024) are now in effect since December 14, 2024: stricter mobile phone penalties with automatic suspension, alcohol interlocks for convicted drink-drivers, mandatory helmets and insurance for all e-scooter riders, and 1.5-meter cyclist passing distance.
Penalties & fines
Before
€165-660 fine, 5 pointsStandard fine and point deduction for phone use while driving
After (2026)
€250-1,000 fine, 1 week suspensionHigher fines plus automatic 1-week license suspension if you have 10+ points; repeat offense up to €1,400 and 3-month suspension
Safety rules
Before
License suspension onlyConvicted drink-drivers had license suspended then returned
After (2026)
Mandatory alcohol interlockConvicted drink-drivers must install breathalyzer device that prevents engine start if alcohol detected
Vehicle equipment
Before
Helmet required under 18 onlyOnly riders under 18 required to wear helmets on e-scooters
After (2026)
Helmet mandatory for all ridersAll e-scooter riders must wear helmets; insurance and registration sticker also required
Safety rules
Before
Blood test at hospitalDrug testing required transport to hospital for blood sample
After (2026)
Saliva test roadsidePolice can conduct immediate saliva drug tests; positive result means instant license withdrawal for up to 10 days
Safety rules
Before
Safe distance (undefined)Drivers required to pass cyclists at a safe distance without specific measurement
After (2026)
1.5 meters minimumMandatory minimum 1.5m (5 feet) when overtaking cyclists; fines from €167
Licensing
Before
1 year power limit (70 kW)New drivers limited to 70 kW vehicles for first year
After (2026)
3 years power limit (75 kW)Power restriction extended to 3 years but limit raised slightly to 75 kW; mandatory motorway and night driving lessons
Penalties & fines
Before
Multiple fines possibleEach speed camera could issue a separate fine
After (2026)
Maximum one fine per hourOnly one speed camera fine per stretch of road within a one-hour period; additional infractions not counted
Fines range from €250-1,000 for a first offense, with automatic 1-week license suspension if you have 10+ points on your license. Repeat offenders face fines up to €1,400, 3-month suspension, and 8-10 point deduction. These are among Europe's strictest phone-driving laws.
Yes. As of December 2024, ALL e-scooter riders must wear helmets, not just under-18s. E-scooters also require third-party insurance, a registration sticker, and indicator lights. They're now banned from riding on cycle paths.
Drivers convicted of drink-driving must install an alcohol interlock device in their vehicle. This breathalyzer prevents the engine from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. It's mandatory for a period after conviction.
You must maintain at least 1.5 meters (approximately 5 feet) when overtaking cyclists. This is now legally mandated with fines starting at €167. If the road is too narrow to give this space, you must wait behind the cyclist until it's safe to pass.
All rule changes are sourced from official government transport agencies and legal publications. AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Rules may be subject to change before their effective dates.
Information last verified: 15 January 2026Everything you need to pass on your first attempt
