New regulations in Russia are set to affect foreign drivers who have obtained residence permits or citizenship before April 1, 2024. Starting April 1, 2025, these individuals must exchange their foreign driver's licenses for Russian ones or face hefty fines ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles. This change comes as part of amendments to the Federal Law on Road Safety, which were introduced in 2023.
According to Alexander Khaminsky, a lawyer and head of the Law and Order Center in Moscow and the surrounding region, the deadline for exchanging foreign licenses under a simplified procedure is April 1, 2025. After this date, driving with a foreign license will be considered an administrative offense, punishable under Part 1 of Article 12.7 of the Administrative Code, which addresses driving without a valid license.
"Thus, the last day to exchange licenses in a simplified manner is April 1, 2025. Starting from this date, managing vehicles with foreign licenses will be deemed an administrative violation, with fines ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles," Khaminsky warned in an interview with РИА Новости.
The new law stipulates that foreign licenses will become invalid for operating vehicles in Russia one year after the law's implementation, which means that those who fail to comply by the deadline will face consequences. Khaminsky emphasized that the simplified procedure for exchanging licenses without taking exams will no longer be available after April 1, 2025.
Under the new regulations, drivers will be required to pass exams to obtain their Russian licenses. For those in categories A and B, only a theory exam will be necessary. However, for categories C and D, drivers will need to undergo training at a driving school and pass both theory and practical driving tests.
To exchange their licenses, drivers must visit the traffic police department before the April 1 deadline and present necessary documents, including their foreign licenses, a passport, and a medical certificate.
In addition to these changes, there are discussions regarding an increase in parking fines across Russia. Reports indicate that the fine for parking on sidewalks could rise from 1,000 to 3,000 rubles, while in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, it could increase from 3,000 to 5,000 rubles. This legislation is being pushed by a group of State Duma deputies from the LDPR, led by Leonid Slutsky.
Furthermore, there is a proposal for a twofold increase in fines for transporting children without appropriate safety restraints in vehicles. This legislative initiative is being developed by senators Andrei Kutepov and Igor Treskov.
As the deadline for exchanging foreign licenses approaches, foreign residents in Russia are urged to take action to avoid penalties. The new rules reflect a broader effort to enhance road safety and ensure that all drivers on Russian roads adhere to local regulations.
Life.ru has also reported that drivers may face fines for violations related to OSAGO (Compulsory Motor Third Party Liability Insurance) legislation, with the possibility of arrest for non-compliance. Current regulations require drivers to carry either an electronic or paper insurance policy while traveling.
Overall, these new measures signify a tightening of road safety regulations in Russia, particularly affecting foreign nationals who have made the country their home. As the implementation date nears, it remains critical for affected drivers to understand their obligations under the law and take necessary steps to comply.
