Japan vs Serbia: Driving Rules Compared

Japan and Serbia both hold drivers to the same 0.03 blood-alcohol limit, yet the similarity ends there: Japan drives on the left, Serbia on the right, and motorway limits sit far apart, 100 km/h in Japan against 130 in Serbia.

Switching between Japan (left-hand traffic) and Serbia (right-hand traffic) requires significant adjustment. Pay special attention to turning, roundabouts, and overtaking — these are the situations where drivers most commonly make errors after switching sides.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits are one of the first things drivers notice when crossing borders. Japan and Serbia take notably different approaches.

Japan sets its speed limits at 40 km/h in cities and towns, 60 km/h on country roads, and 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h) on motorways.

Serbia sets its speed limits at 50 km/h in cities and towns, 80 km/h on country roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Drivers transitioning between Japan and Serbia should pay close attention to posted signs, as assumptions based on one country’s rules can lead to speeding tickets in the other. Speed cameras are common in both countries, and enforcement can be strict.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Japan and Serbia have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Japan drives on the left; Serbia drives on the right. This is a major difference that requires careful adjustment.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 18 in Japan and 18 in Serbia.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 18,000 (approx. EUR 115) + 3 points. In Serbia, the penalty is RSD 10,000-20,000 (approx. EUR 85-170) + 2 penalty points. Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Japan and Serbia. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is Warning / 1 point (no fine for first offence) in Japan and RSD 5,000-10,000 (approx. EUR 45-85) in Serbia.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Japan, expect JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 2 points. In Serbia, the penalty is RSD 10,000-40,000 (approx. EUR 85-340) + 3 penalty points.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Alcohol and driving regulations differ between Japan and Serbia, and the penalties for non-compliance can be severe in both.

Japan sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.03%.

Serbia has a BAC limit of 0.03%.

With comparable BAC limits, the general rule of moderation applies equally in both Japan and Serbia.

Penalties for exceeding the BAC limit in both Japan and Serbia can include heavy fines, licence suspension, and even imprisonment. Novice drivers face even stricter thresholds in many countries. The safest policy is to not drink at all when you plan to drive.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Vehicle equipment requirements are an often-overlooked aspect of driving abroad. Japan and Serbia each have their own list of mandatory items.

Winter Tyres

• Japan: Winter tyres are situational. Period: Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter. Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Serbia: Winter tyres are mandatory. Period: 1 Nov - 1 Apr. Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

Rental vehicles usually come equipped for the country of hire. If you intend to drive in both Japan and Serbia, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Japan and Serbia.

In Japan, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 1 point. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Serbia, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: RSD 5,000-20,000 (approx. EUR 45-170). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

Before driving in {a} or {b}, ensure you have the correct documentation. Requirements for international visitors vary.

Japan: An IDP is required. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence IDP required (1949 Geneva Convention only). US, UK and many EU licences need specific IDP. Drives on the left.

Serbia: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 6 months on a foreign licence Foreign licence valid for 6 months. IDP recommended.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency while driving, it is essential to know the local numbers:

Save these numbers in your phone before travelling. In an emergency, quick access to the correct number is crucial.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Before hitting the road in Japan or Serbia, consider these practical driving tips:

1. Use a GPS or navigation app. Modern navigation apps often include speed limit warnings, toll information, and real-time traffic updates that can help you comply with local rules.

2. Be aware of environmental zones. Many cities have low-emission zones that restrict older vehicles. Check if you need an environmental sticker for either country.

3. Understand toll systems. Research whether you need a vignette, transponder, or cash for tolls in each country.

4. Plan fuel stops. Fuel prices and station availability can vary significantly. In some regions, stations may close at night or on Sundays.

5. Adjust to speed limits immediately. When crossing the border, speed limits change. Look for signs and adjust your driving accordingly. Do not rely on habits from the other country.

6. Check insurance coverage. Verify that your motor insurance or rental agreement covers driving in both countries. A Green Card may be required for cross-border travel.

7. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

8. Research before you go. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules of each country before your trip. Print or save a summary of key rules for quick reference.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

For most international tourists, the overall driving experience will vary based on road conditions, signage clarity, and traffic density.

Based on tourist ratings, Japan scores 3.0/5 (Moderate). Left-hand driving, expensive tolls, excellent roads, kanji signage

Based on tourist ratings, Serbia scores 3.2/5 (Moderate). Variable road quality, aggressive driving, improving motorways

The switch between left-hand traffic in Japan and right-hand traffic in Serbia is the single biggest adjustment drivers will face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Serbia with a Japan driving licence?

Rules vary by nationality. Check the specific licence requirements for each country, and consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Japan compared to Serbia?

The motorway speed limit in Japan is 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h), while in Serbia it is 130 km/h. Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Japan or Serbia?

In Japan, winter tyres are situational (Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter). In Serbia, they are mandatory (1 Nov - 1 Apr). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Both countries have the same BAC limit of 0.03%, so the strictness is comparable. Penalties in both countries are serious and can include licence suspension, heavy fines, and imprisonment.

What side of the road do they drive on in Japan and Serbia?

Japan drives on the left side and Serbia drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Japan in Serbia?

International motor insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. Contact your insurer before travelling to confirm coverage in both Japan and Serbia. You may need to purchase additional local insurance.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Japan or Serbia?

In Japan, the general emergency number is 110 (police: 110, ambulance: 119). In Serbia, call 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 112). Save both numbers in your phone before you travel.