Serbia 2026: Studded Tyres Banned, 0.03% Alcohol Cap

Serbia prohibits studded tyres entirely, a stricter stance than the seasonal allowances common in neighbouring countries. The blood alcohol limit is 0.03%, and a speeding fine for 10 km/h over the limit starts around EUR 45. Winter tyres become situational between 1 November and 1 April, and motorways allow up to 130 km/h.

Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.03% BAC. You must be at least 18 to drive.

Emergency Numbers in Serbia

General Emergency: 112 | Police: 112

Save these numbers before you start driving. In Serbia, emergency calls are free from any phone.

Speed Limits in Serbia

The default speed limits for passenger cars in Serbia are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

Trucks and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes have lower limits: 50 km/h urban, 70 km/h rural, and 80 km/h on motorways.

For comparison, motorway limits in nearby countries: Albania (110 km/h).

Speed camera coverage in Serbia is relatively limited, but mobile radar units are used. The typical enforcement tolerance is about 10 km/h.

Important: Posted signs always override default limits. Watch for temporary restrictions in construction zones, near schools, and in residential areas.

Speeding Fines and Penalties

Speeding fines in Serbia escalate based on how far you exceed the limit. Exceeding by up to 10 km/h: RSD 5,000-20,000 (approx. EUR 45-170). Exceeding by 11-20 km/h: RSD 10,000-40,000 (approx. EUR 85-340) + 3 penalty points. Over 20 km/h: RSD 20,000-100,000 (approx. EUR 170-850) + 6 penalty points + licence suspension or more.

Foreign drivers in Serbia may be required to pay fines on the spot. Carry sufficient cash or a valid payment card.

Other common fines:

• Mobile phone use while driving: RSD 10,000-20,000 (approx. EUR 85-170) + 2 penalty points
• Running a red light: RSD 10,000-40,000 (approx. EUR 85-340) + 3 penalty points
• Seatbelt violation: RSD 5,000-10,000 (approx. EUR 45-85)

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Drive on the right side of the road. Overtake on the left. At roundabouts, enter counter-clockwise and yield to traffic already circulating.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children must use appropriate restraint systems based on their age and height.

Using a hand-held phone while driving is illegal. The fine is RSD 10,000-20,000 (approx. EUR 85-170) + 2 penalty points. Use hands-free devices only.

Daytime running lights are required in most situations. Dipped headlights must be used in tunnels, rain, and reduced visibility.

At unmarked intersections, traffic from the right generally has priority unless signs indicate otherwise.

Drink-Driving Laws and Alcohol Limits

The legal blood alcohol limit in Serbia is 0.03% BAC. This is higher than Albania (0.01% BAC). Exceeding this limit results in fines, licence suspension, and possible criminal charges. For novice drivers and professional drivers, stricter limits may apply.

The safest approach is to not drink at all if you will be driving. Alcohol affects reaction time and judgement regardless of the legal limit.

Tyre Requirements and Regulations

Winter tyre requirement in Serbia: Required.

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. Safety experts recommend replacing tyres at 4.0 mm for adequate grip.

Studded tyres are prohibited in Serbia.

For detailed tyre law information, see our Tyre Laws in Serbia guide.

Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

Vehicles in Serbia must carry the following:

Required:

• Warning triangle
• Reflective vest (high-visibility)
• First aid kit
• Spare bulbs

Recommended:

• Fire extinguisher

Keep all equipment accessible — not buried under luggage. Police may check during routine stops.

Driving License Requirements

EU and EEA driving licences are valid in Serbia without additional documentation. Always carry your original driving licence — photocopies are not accepted. Your foreign licence is valid for up to 6 months.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

Foreign licence valid for 6 months. IDP recommended.

Parking and Fuel

City-centre parking in Serbia is typically paid — use parking meters, ticket machines, or mobile payment apps. Look for P+R (park and ride) facilities on the outskirts connected to public transport.

Current fuel prices in Serbia: petrol approximately $1.45/litre, diesel $1.50/litre (USD). Prices vary by region and station.

Most fuel stations accept major credit and debit cards. In rural areas, keep your tank above half — stations may be far apart.

Seasonal Driving Conditions

Serbia has varied conditions. Check weather forecasts before long journeys and adjust your driving to conditions. Road surfaces and visibility can change quickly with weather.

Practical Driving Tips for Serbia

• Speed camera warning apps (Waze, Google Maps) are legal here.
• Dashcams are legal and recommended for evidence in case of an accident.
• Police can issue on-the-spot fines. Carry cash or a valid payment card.
• Download offline maps of Serbia before your trip — mobile signal can be unreliable on rural roads.
• Check if you need a motorway vignette (toll sticker) or an environmental zone sticker for city driving.
• Take a break every 2 hours on long drives. Fatigue is a leading cause of road accidents.
• Use our interactive tools on this page — compare rules with your home country and calculate potential fines before you set off.