2025 has brought large-scale changes to Russia’s road traffic sector. The updates affect not only traffic rules but also the amounts of fines, the procedure for paying them, and requirements for vehicles. More details on what drivers need to know are in the article.
Some of the new traffic rules have been in effect since August 1, while others will come into force on September 1 and by the end of the year. The goal of the changes is to improve safety, reduce the number of accidents, and enhance control over compliance with traffic rules. Here are the rules that take effect starting tomorrow and how to avoid fines.
New traffic rules in 2025
Where overtaking is now prohibited. Starting September 1, 2025, drivers are prohibited from overtaking on road sections with visibility less than 100 meters, even if the road markings permit the maneuver. This applies to ascents and descents with a gradient exceeding 7%, as well as bridges with narrow roadways.
Where scooter riders can ride. Owners of personal mobility devices (PMDs) will be required to travel only on bicycle lanes or shoulders. Additionally, speed limits for PMDs are set: within city limits—up to 20 km/h, on sidewalks—10 km/h.
Requirements for pedestrian crossings near schools and kindergartens. Crossings near schools, kindergartens, and hospitals will be equipped with additional lighting and high-visibility markings starting September 1. Drivers must reduce speed to 30 km/h within 50 meters of such zones.
Transporting children in taxis. Starting August 1, 2025, transporting children under 7 years old in taxis is only permitted using child restraint systems. For children aged 7 to 11, boosters or car seats are allowed.
Stopping under a camera. Stopping in zones with smart cameras that record violations is now punishable by a fine. The system detects even brief stops, such as for dropping off passengers.
Headlights and daytime running lights outside the city. Under the new rules, starting September 1, drivers are required to use low-beam headlights or daytime running lights when driving outside the city during daylight hours.
Who is prohibited from driving. The list of medical conditions prohibiting driving has been expanded to include psychological development disorders and all forms of color blindness. The list includes:
— Organic mental disorders;
— Schizophrenia and delusional spectrum disorders;
— Mood disorders, including severe depression;
— Blindness in both eyes;
— Epilepsy, etc.
Starting September 1, 2025, before undergoing a medical examination, a driver must sign a document confirming voluntary consent to the procedure. The time between repeated breathalyzer tests has been increased from 15–20 to 25 minutes. For individuals involved in accidents or suspected of intoxication, medical professionals will collect two samples—urine and blood.
The examinee will be required to provide medical staff with a full list of medications taken within the last 72 hours. Some drugs (e.g., sedatives or painkillers) can cause sluggishness and reduced attention, which is important to consider in accident investigations.
The synthetic drug mephedrone has been added to the list of prohibited substances.
State fees may increase
Starting autumn 2025, car owners may face higher costs for document processing. A bill is under consideration in the State Duma that proposes increasing state fees. If passed, the cost of key services for drivers will rise several times.
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