Road Code changes: Repeat drunk drivers to lose their licenses permanently

Drivers who have previously been penalized for driving under the influence and are caught again with more than 0.5 g/litre of alcohol in their blood will permanently lose their driving licenses. The license will not be obtainable again, even by enrolling in a driving school. The measure aims to remove chronic drunk drivers from the roads, as they are considered the most dangerous drivers.

The changes also introduce consequences for adults who drive without a license. In addition to a fine, they will be barred for one year from obtaining a driving license, meaning they will not be able to enroll in a driving school during that period. The measure is stricter for minors: if they are caught behind the wheel, they will not be able to obtain a license as soon as they turn 18, but must wait at least another two years before applying to a driving school.

Data on road incidents show that drivers who have recently obtained their licenses are more likely to be involved in accidents, speeding and other violations. For this reason, during the first two years after obtaining their licenses, they will be completely prohibited from consuming alcohol when driving. In addition, the permitted speed for this category will be a maximum of 90 km/h on motorways and 80 km/h on other roads outside built-up areas.

Failure to comply with these rules will be punishable by a fine of between 5,000 and 15,000 lekë, a one-month license suspension and the loss of points. If, during the two-year period, a driver commits two violations within one year, the restrictions related to speed or driving during certain hours will be extended by another year, bringing the total duration to three years.

Another important change concerns the suspension of driving licenses. Until now, both Albanian citizens and foreigners could have the suspension converted by paying double the amount of the fine. This option will no longer exist for licenses issued by Albanian authorities, as the suspension will be applied automatically.

Fines are also increasing for speeding in built-up areas and near schools, as well as for people who hold vehicle races or carry out aggressive maneuvers. The financial penalty, which until now ranged from 10,000 to 40,000 lekë, will range from 20,000 to 60,000 lekë.

A driving license will be suspended for three months if a driver is caught using a mobile phone while driving twice within one year. Until now, the Road Code provided for this measure after three violations. The ban on mobile phone use applies not only to car drivers, but also to people riding bicycles, motorcycles of up to 50cc and scooters.