Finland implements EU GSR2 Phase 3 safety requirements for all new vehicles in 2026, updates winter driving regulations, introduces environmental zone frameworks, and adjusts penalty structures for traffic violations.
Safety Rules
Effective July 7, 2026
Before
Basic ADAS required
Since July 2024, new cars required ISA, AEB, lane-keeping assistance, and drowsiness detection based on driving patterns
After (2026)
Camera-based distraction monitoring mandatory
All new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) with in-cabin camera detecting phone use, eating, or looking away from the road
GSR2 Phase 3 adds camera-based monitoring from July 2026. Your car will detect if you're distracted and issue warnings. Combined with existing ISA (Intelligent Speed Assistance), AEB, and lane-keeping systems mandatory since 2024, modern vehicles now have comprehensive safety monitoring.
Vehicle Equipment
Effective November 1, 2026
Before
Winter tires Nov 1 - Mar 31
Winter tires mandatory from November 1 to March 31 with minimum 3mm tread depth
After (2026)
Extended period and stricter standards
Winter tires mandatory November 1 through April 15 with minimum 3mm tread depth; studded tires allowed November 1 to April 15; stricter enforcement on tread depth compliance
Finland's winter tire season has been extended by two weeks to April 15 to account for late-season ice and snow in northern regions. Always check tread depth before winter - the 3mm minimum is strictly enforced. Studded tires remain popular and are recommended for northern Finland.
Penalties & Fines
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
0.05% BAC limit, income-based fines
Drunk driving penalized with day-fines based on income; license suspension of 1-5 years for aggravated offenses
After (2026)
Mandatory alcohol interlock for more offenders
Alcohol interlock program expanded to cover first-time offenders above 0.08% BAC; mandatory rehabilitation course for all DUI offenders; minimum 1-year license suspension for repeat offenders
Finland's DUI penalties are getting tougher. The alcohol interlock program now covers more first-time offenders, not just repeat offenders. If caught above 0.08% BAC, you may need to install a breathalyzer device in your car. All DUI offenders must complete a rehabilitation course.
Environmental Zones
Effective June 1, 2026
Before
No environmental zones
Finland had no low-emission or environmental zone restrictions in cities
After (2026)
Municipal environmental zones enabled
Legislation enables Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku to establish environmental zones restricting the most polluting vehicles; municipalities decide implementation timeline
Finland is joining other EU countries in enabling environmental zones. Helsinki is expected to be first, potentially restricting older diesel vehicles in the city center. Watch for new signage indicating zone boundaries and check your vehicle's emission class before driving into major city centers.
From July 7, 2026, all new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) - camera-based monitoring that detects phone use or looking away from the road. ISA, AEB, lane-keeping, and drowsiness detection were already mandatory from July 2024. This is EU GSR2 Phase 3.
Winter tires are mandatory from November 1 through April 15 (extended from the previous March 31 end date). Minimum tread depth is 3mm. Studded tires are allowed during the same period. In northern Finland, conditions often require winter tires well into April.
Yes. From June 2026, Finnish municipalities including Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku can establish environmental zones restricting the most polluting vehicles. Each city decides its own implementation timeline and which vehicles are restricted.
Finland has expanded its alcohol interlock program to cover first-time offenders above 0.08% BAC. All DUI offenders must complete a mandatory rehabilitation course. Repeat offenders face a minimum 1-year license suspension. Finland uses income-based day-fines, so penalties can be very high for high earners.
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, 2026
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