Sweden advances its Vision Zero strategy in 2026 with EU GSR2 Phase 3 distraction monitoring, updated winter tire regulations, expanded environmental zones in Stockholm and Gothenburg, and new lower speed limits in urban areas.
Safety rules
Before
Basic ADAS requiredSince July 2024, new cars required ISA, AEB, lane-keeping, and basic drowsiness warning
After (2026)
Camera-based distraction monitoringAll new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) with in-cabin camera to detect phone use, inattention, or other distractions
Vehicle equipment
Before
Winter tires Dec 1 - Mar 31Winter tires mandatory December 1 to March 31 when conditions are wintry; minimum 3mm tread depth
After (2026)
Extended period and stricter requirementsWinter tires mandatory December 1 to March 31; minimum tread depth remains 3mm; studded tires allowed October 1 to April 15; foreign vehicles must also comply from first day of entry
Speed limits
Before
50 km/h default urbanDefault speed limit in urban areas was 50 km/h with some 30 km/h zones
After (2026)
40 km/h in residential areasDefault speed limit reduced to 40 km/h in residential areas; 30 km/h zones expanded near schools, hospitals, and areas with high pedestrian activity
Environmental zones
Before
Miljözon Class 1 and 2Environmental zones restricted heavy diesel vehicles in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö
After (2026)
Miljözon Class 3 in effectClass 3 zones in central Stockholm and Gothenburg restrict passenger cars: only Euro 6 diesel and Euro 5 petrol or newer allowed; electric and hybrid vehicles exempt
Vehicle equipment
Before
Limited regulationE-scooters classified as bicycles with 20 km/h limit; minimal enforcement
After (2026)
Stricter classification and rulesE-scooters limited to 20 km/h with mandatory lights and reflectors; parking restricted to designated areas in city centers; riders must be 15+
From July 7, 2026, all new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) - a camera that detects phone use or inattention. ISA (Intelligent Speed Assistance), AEB, and lane-keeping were already mandatory from July 2024. This is EU GSR2 Phase 3, applying across all EU member states including Sweden.
Winter tires with at least 3mm tread depth are mandatory from December 1 to March 31 when road conditions are wintry (ice, snow, or slush). Studded tires are allowed from October 1 to April 15. Foreign vehicles must comply from the first day of entry into Sweden - there are no grace periods.
Miljözon Class 3 in central Stockholm and Gothenburg restricts passenger cars based on emission standards. You need at least Euro 6 for diesel vehicles or Euro 5 for petrol vehicles. Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are exempt. Check signs when entering these areas.
Yes. Under Vision Zero, residential areas are moving to a 40 km/h default speed limit (down from 50 km/h). Additionally, 30 km/h zones are expanding around schools, hospitals, and areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. Always check the posted speed limit signs as changes are being implemented gradually.
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: February 1, 2026Everything you need to pass on your first attempt
