Four Mandatory Items for Every Car in Ukraine (2026)

Four items are compulsory in every car in Ukraine: a warning triangle, reflective vest, first aid kit and fire extinguisher. The blood-alcohol limit is 0.02%, paired with a speed-tier system of 50, 90 and 130 km/h.

Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.02% BAC. You must be at least 18 to drive.

Emergency Numbers in Ukraine

General Emergency: 112 | Police: 112

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

Speed Limits in Ukraine

The default speed limits for passenger cars in Ukraine are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 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, 80 km/h rural, and 90 km/h on motorways.

For comparison, motorway limits in nearby countries: Moldova (110 km/h), Russia (110 km/h), Belarus (110 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 Ukraine escalate based on how far you exceed the limit. Exceeding by up to 10 km/h: UAH 340 (approx. EUR 8). Exceeding by 11-20 km/h: UAH 510 (approx. EUR 12). Over 20 km/h: UAH 1,700 (approx. EUR 40) + possible licence suspension or more.

Other common fines:

• Mobile phone use while driving: UAH 510 (approx. EUR 12)
• Running a red light: UAH 510 (approx. EUR 12)
• Seatbelt violation: UAH 510 (approx. EUR 12)

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 UAH 510 (approx. EUR 12). 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 Ukraine is 0.02% BAC. This is stricter than Moldova (0.03% 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

Check local requirements for tyre regulations in Ukraine. At minimum, tyres must be in good condition and suitable for the road surface.

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 Ukraine.

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

Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

Vehicles in Ukraine must carry the following:

Required:

• Warning triangle
• Reflective vest (high-visibility)
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher

Recommended:

• Spare bulbs

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 Ukraine without additional documentation. Always carry your original driving licence — photocopies are not accepted. Your foreign licence is valid for up to 12 months.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

IDP recommended. Foreign licence valid for duration of legal stay.

Parking and Fuel

City-centre parking in Ukraine 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 Ukraine: petrol approximately $1.25/litre, diesel $1.20/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

Ukraine has continental climate with cold winters. Winter driving (November to March) requires caution — ice, snow, and reduced visibility are common. Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving. Allow extra following distance on slippery roads.

Summer driving is generally straightforward with long daylight hours. Watch for tourist traffic near popular destinations.

Practical Driving Tips for Ukraine

• Download offline maps of Ukraine 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.