Traffic rulesGreece

A motorway is normally identified by a special motorway sign at its entrance. It commonly has separate carriageways, controlled entrances and exits, and no ordinary intersections or direct access to neighbouring properties.

Motorways are primarily intended for motor vehicles capable of travelling safely at motorway speeds. Pedestrians, cyclists, animals and certain slow vehicles are generally prohibited, but the exact access requirements differ between countries.

There is no universal motorway speed limit. The applicable limit depends on the country, road section, vehicle category and driving conditions. Posted or variable speed-limit signs may replace the general national limit.

Use the entrance or acceleration lane to observe motorway traffic and adjust your speed where possible. Enter only when there is a safe gap and follow the local priority and merging rules.

Move into the correct lane in good time and signal when required. Enter the exit or deceleration lane before reducing your speed, unless traffic, signs or road conditions require you to slow down earlier.

Follow the local keep-left or keep-right rule and any lane-direction signs. Lanes closer to the centre of the motorway are commonly used for overtaking, but lane-use rules differ between countries and vehicle categories.

Voluntary stopping and parking are normally permitted only in designated parking or service areas. Drivers may still have to stop because of congestion, an emergency or another unavoidable situation.

Reversing, making a U-turn and driving against the direction of traffic are generally prohibited. If you miss an exit, continue to the next suitable exit.

Move the vehicle out of the traffic lanes when this can be done safely, activate the hazard warning lights and follow the local breakdown procedures. Leave the vehicle safely, keep away from moving traffic and use a warning triangle or safety vest where required by local law.

A motorway normally has the highest level of access control and is governed by specific motorway rules. An expressway may have similar characteristics but may permit different road users or contain lower-standard junctions. The legal distinction varies between countries.

A speed limit is the maximum legal speed permitted on a road, lane or within a designated area. It does not require drivers to travel at that speed.

A speed limit is commonly displayed as a number on a regulatory traffic sign. General limits may also apply automatically because of the country, road category, vehicle type or surrounding area, even when no speed-limit sign is present.

No. It is the highest speed legally permitted under suitable conditions. Drivers must reduce their speed whenever travelling at the limit would be unsafe.

Yes. Drivers should travel more slowly when required by traffic, weather, visibility, road conditions or nearby vulnerable road users. Driving unnecessarily slowly may nevertheless be prohibited when it obstructs normal traffic.

Not always. Lower limits may apply to heavy vehicles, buses, vehicles towing trailers, novice drivers or other vehicle categories. The lowest applicable limit must be respected.

A default speed limit applies automatically to a particular road type or area when no traffic sign indicates another limit. Examples include general limits for motorways, built-up areas or roads outside built-up areas.

Usually, yes. A legally placed speed-limit sign normally introduces another maximum speed, although lower vehicle-specific or special-road limits may continue to apply.

A speed restriction normally begins at the location of the sign. Drivers should reduce their speed before passing the sign so that they are already travelling within the limit when it takes effect.

A signed limit may end at an intersection, an end-of-limit sign, another speed-limit sign or the beginning or end of a legally defined area. The exact rule differs between countries.

This depends on local law. An ordinary speed restriction may end at an intersection in some countries, while a zonal speed limit normally continues across intersections until an end-of-zone sign.

A speed zone is an area in which the displayed maximum speed applies throughout all included roads. The limit normally remains in force until the corresponding end-of-zone sign.

A variable speed limit is displayed on an electronic or changeable sign and may be adjusted according to congestion, weather, incidents or roadworks. When activated, it has the same legal importance as another applicable regulatory speed sign.

Yes. Signs positioned above individual lanes may impose different limits on those lanes. Drivers must observe the limit applying to the lane they use.

Yes. Temporary limits may be introduced near roadworks, collisions, hazards or special events. Drivers must follow the temporary traffic signs and instructions that are legally in force.

No. Overtaking does not normally permit a driver to exceed the applicable maximum speed. The manoeuvre must be completed safely while respecting the speed limit.

Some countries impose specific lower limits in rain, snow or other conditions. Even where the numerical limit does not change, drivers must reduce their speed sufficiently for the conditions.

A quay is a constructed waterside platform or road area beside a river, canal, harbour or other navigable water. It may be used by ships, vehicles, workers, pedestrians and loading equipment.

It warns that the road approaches or leads onto a quay, riverbank or waterside edge where a vehicle could enter the water.

It may. The road may lead directly towards the water, turn sharply near it or continue alongside an insufficiently protected edge. Drivers must observe the actual road layout.

Reduce speed early, remain in full control and watch for the road edge, barriers, bends, workers, pedestrians and moving equipment. Avoid sudden steering or braking close to the water.

No. Drivers must follow the posted or general speed limit and reduce their speed further when the road is narrow, wet, poorly lit or close to an unprotected edge.

No. It normally warns of danger rather than prohibiting access. Additional signs, gates or local rules may restrict particular vehicles or activities.

No. Drivers must continue to follow traffic lights, priority signs and the normal priority rules.

This depends on local signs and regulations. Do not stop or park where the vehicle could create danger, obstruct traffic, interfere with loading operations or block emergency access.

Only in a clearly authorised and suitable place. Leave sufficient space from the edge, apply the parking brake securely and follow any wheel-positioning or local parking instructions.

Overtaking may be legal, but it should be avoided when the road is narrow, visibility is limited or the manoeuvre would bring the vehicle close to the waterside edge.

Water, algae, mud, ice, fuel, oil or material from loading operations may reduce grip. Painted markings, rails and metal surfaces may also become especially slippery when wet.

Drivers may encounter pedestrians, cyclists, dock workers, cranes, forklifts, railway tracks, mooring equipment, reversing trucks and unsecured edges.

Large vehicles need more space to turn and may have limited visibility close to the cab or trailer. Soft edges, narrow roads and nearby equipment can make manoeuvring more difficult.

Pedestrian access depends on local rules. Where pedestrians are permitted, drivers should expect them to move between vehicles, vessels, buildings and loading areas.

Reverse only when necessary and when the route is clearly visible. Use a guide where available and never rely solely on mirrors or cameras when the vehicle could approach the water.

Reduce speed, use the required lights and look carefully for reflectors, barriers, road edges and people. Water and dark surroundings can make the boundary of the road difficult to recognise.

Do not assume that the route is safe. Slow down, identify the road boundary and follow signs or instructions from authorised personnel.

Leave the vehicle as quickly and safely as possible, help passengers where possible and contact the emergency services. Do not re-enter the water or vehicle to recover belongings.

A road slope is a section of road that rises or descends over a particular distance. It may also be called a gradient, incline or decline.

A steep slope may be indicated by a warning sign showing an ascending or descending road. The sign may also display the gradient as a percentage.

A gradient of 10% means that the road rises or falls approximately 10 metres for every 100 metres travelled horizontally. It does not mean that the road is inclined at 10 degrees.

An ascent rises in the direction of travel, while a descent falls in the direction of travel. The same section of road is therefore an ascent in one direction and a descent in the other.

Not normally. It warns of a hazard rather than setting a numerical limit. Drivers must still respect the applicable speed limit and reduce their speed further when necessary.

Reduce speed before the descent, select a suitable gear and maintain a safe following distance. Avoid allowing the vehicle to gain excessive speed.

Use a gear that provides sufficient engine braking and helps keep the vehicle at a controlled speed. The appropriate gear depends on the vehicle, gradient and road conditions.

No. Coasting reduces engine braking and may make it harder to control the vehicle’s speed. Keep the transmission engaged while descending.

Continuous braking on a long descent can cause the brakes to become excessively hot and lose effectiveness. Select a suitable gear, control speed early and use the brakes progressively when needed.

Brake fade is a reduction in braking performance caused by excessive heat. It can occur when the brakes are used continuously during a long or steep descent.

Select a suitable gear before the engine begins to struggle and maintain a steady speed where possible. Be prepared for heavy or low-powered vehicles travelling slowly ahead.

Yes. Heavy vehicles, vehicles towing trailers and low-powered vehicles may slow considerably. Other drivers should maintain a safe distance and avoid impatient manoeuvres.

Do not overtake when the crest prevents you from seeing far enough ahead. Overtaking near a hilltop may also be expressly prohibited by local law, signs or road markings.

The road surface itself may hide approaching traffic, stopped vehicles, pedestrians or other hazards beyond the crest.

Some countries give priority to uphill traffic, while others rely on signs or ordinary obstruction rules. Drivers must follow local law and cooperate when passing is difficult.

Reduce speed and use a passing place where available. The driver who can reverse or move aside more safely should cooperate, subject to any applicable priority signs or local rules.

They reduce traction and make acceleration, braking and steering more difficult. Increase the following distance, use smooth controls and reduce speed before entering the slope.

Cyclists may travel slowly and move less steadily when climbing, while they may reach high speeds when descending. Drivers should leave sufficient space and avoid overtaking without a clear view.

Use the parking brake, select the appropriate gear or parking position and follow local rules concerning wheel position. Make sure the vehicle cannot roll into traffic.

Yes. A trailer increases the load on the engine and brakes and may affect stability. Drivers should use a suitable gear, maintain additional distance and avoid excessive speed.

A roundabout is a circular road arrangement where traffic travels in one direction around a central island before leaving through the chosen exit.

A roundabout is normally identified by a circular-direction sign, a central island and entry roads controlled by signs, markings or local priority rules.

The direction depends on the country’s driving side. Traffic normally travels anticlockwise in right-hand-traffic countries and clockwise in left-hand-traffic countries.

Priority differs between countries and roundabout designs. Entering traffic commonly gives way to traffic already circulating, but drivers must always follow the actual priority signs and signals.

Not always. Stop when required by a stop sign, traffic light or approaching priority traffic. Otherwise, reduce speed and enter only when there is a safe gap.

No. The sign arrangement depends on local law. Some circular intersections use ordinary priority rules or traffic lights instead.

Reduce speed, observe the signs and markings, choose the appropriate lane and check for pedestrians, cyclists and circulating traffic.

Follow the lane arrows and destination signs. As a general guide, use the lane appropriate for your exit, but exact lane-selection rules differ between countries and roundabout layouts.

Yes, where the road layout and local rules permit it. Before leaving, change lanes safely and give way to road users already travelling in the lane you wish to enter.

This depends on local law. Some countries require a signal for particular exits, while others require no signal when entering.

Usually, yes. Signal in the direction of the exit early enough to inform other road users, but not so early that your intention becomes misleading.

No. A direction indicator communicates your intention but does not permit you to force another road user to brake or change direction.

Only when the lane markings permit it and the manoeuvre can be completed safely. Check mirrors and blind spots, signal where required and give way to traffic already in the target lane.

Continue around the roundabout and approach the exit again. Do not stop, reverse or cut suddenly across another lane.

Normally not. Some small roundabouts have a mountable central section intended only for vehicles that cannot otherwise negotiate the road safely.

Priority depends on whether cyclists use the carriageway, a continuing bike path or a separate cycle crossing. Drivers and cyclists must follow the signs, markings and local priority rules.

Check mirrors and blind spots for cyclists, mopeds, motorcycles and vehicles beside you. Also check for pedestrians crossing the exit road.

Pedestrian priority depends on crossings and local law. Drivers should approach exits slowly and be prepared to yield to pedestrians crossing or about to cross.

Not universally. The posted or general road limit applies, but drivers must travel slowly enough to negotiate the roundabout safely.

Passing another vehicle may be permitted on a multilane roundabout, but drivers must remain within their lane and avoid unsafe lane changes. Local overtaking restrictions may apply.

Follow local signs and parking rules. Stopping or parking on the circulating roadway is commonly prohibited or unsafe because it obstructs traffic and reduces visibility.

No. A circular junction may be governed by traffic lights, ordinary priority rules or another road design. Its legal status depends on its signs and local definition.

A road curve is a section where the road changes direction to the left or right.

It may be indicated by a triangular warning sign showing a curved line. The symbol normally indicates whether the first curve turns left or right.

A double curve consists of two curves in opposite directions. The warning sign normally shows the direction of the first curve.

Yes. A double-curve symbol may also warn of a longer sequence of successive curves. A supplementary panel may indicate the length of the winding section.

No. It normally warns of danger rather than setting a numerical limit. Drivers must still reduce speed when the permitted maximum would be unsafe.

Reduce speed before entering the curve, while the vehicle is travelling straight and has maximum stability.

No. Harsh braking in a curve can reduce stability and grip. Complete most braking beforehand and use smooth adjustments where necessary.

Maintain a controlled speed through the curve. Accelerate smoothly only when the exit becomes visible and the vehicle is stable.

Look towards the path you intend to follow and the visible exit of the curve. Continue checking the road surface, lane position and nearby traffic.

Yes. Do not cross the centre line or cut across another lane, even when this would make the curve appear easier to negotiate.

Buildings, vegetation, slopes, barriers and the road alignment may hide oncoming traffic, cyclists, pedestrians, stopped vehicles or debris.

Choose a speed that allows you to remain in your lane and stop within the distance you can see to be clear. The safe speed may be far below the legal maximum.

An advisory speed is a recommended safe speed for negotiating the curve under suitable conditions. It is not necessarily the legal maximum speed.

They reduce tyre grip and increase the risk of skidding. Reduce speed earlier, use smooth controls and leave additional distance from other vehicles.

Avoid sudden braking or steering. Reduce speed smoothly and follow a clear path without entering another traffic lane.

Do not overtake when visibility is insufficient to see approaching traffic and complete the manoeuvre safely. Local law, signs and continuous road markings may also prohibit overtaking.

Only where it is permitted and the vehicle remains clearly visible. Stopping or parking in a poorly visible curve may create a serious hazard and is often prohibited.

No. Leave enough distance to react if the vehicle ahead brakes for a hidden obstruction or a sharper part of the curve.

Motorcycles require grip for both cornering and braking. Riders should reduce speed before the curve, choose a stable line and avoid painted markings, gravel and slippery surfaces.

A trailer may sway, track closer to the inside of the curve or become unstable when speed and steering inputs are excessive. Enter slowly and steer smoothly.

Buses and trucks may move closer to lane boundaries because of their length and width. Other drivers should avoid travelling beside them through a tight curve.

Reduce speed, move safely towards your side of the road and avoid a sudden manoeuvre that could cause another collision. Sound a warning only when reasonably necessary.

No. Drivers must assess every curve and adapt their speed even when no warning sign is displayed.

Wrong-way driving means travelling against the legally permitted direction of traffic.

It can occur on one-way streets, divided roads, motorways, slip roads, tunnels, car parks and temporary traffic arrangements.

Other drivers do not expect approaching traffic in their lane, and the combined speeds can make a head-on collision extremely severe.

Look for no-entry signs, one-way signs, mandatory-direction signs, lane arrows and road markings. Motorway exits may also have repeated signs or warning systems facing the wrong direction.

Entering past a no-entry sign can cause wrong-way driving, but the term also covers turning around on a divided road or using the wrong carriageway without passing such a sign.

Normally, yes. However, signs may expressly permit certain road users, such as cyclists or public transport, to travel in the opposite direction.

No. A cyclist, bus or other road user travelling in an expressly authorised contraflow lane or direction is using the road legally.

Yes. Temporary signs, barriers, lane signals and markings may redirect traffic onto another lane or carriageway. Follow the temporary arrangement rather than the usual road layout.

Reduce speed immediately, keep as far as safely possible towards the outer edge of your carriageway and avoid sudden lane changes. Warn the police or emergency services as soon as this can be done safely.

No. Do not block, chase or turn after the vehicle. Protect yourself and allow trained emergency services to intervene.

A brief warning may help the driver recognise the error, but avoid prolonged or aggressive signalling that could cause panic or an unpredictable manoeuvre.

Use the horn only when reasonably necessary to warn of immediate danger. Your first priority is to reduce speed and create as much safe space as possible.

Normally not. Sudden stopping may cause a rear-end collision. Slow down and move towards a safe shoulder, refuge or other protected location where possible.

Reduce speed, stop overtaking, increase your following distance and remain in the lane or position recommended by the local authorities or warning system.

Avoid unnecessary use of lanes nearest opposing or central traffic when a wrong-way driver has been reported. Follow local emergency guidance and electronic signs.

Slow down immediately, activate the hazard warning lights and use dipped headlights where required. Move to the safest available edge or shoulder and stop.

No. Increasing speed greatly increases the collision risk. Stop safely and wait for instructions from the police.

No. Do not turn across live lanes, cross a central reservation or attempt to correct the mistake through another dangerous manoeuvre.

No. Reversing against traffic or along a motorway slip road creates additional danger. Stop safely and contact the emergency services.

This depends on the location and immediate danger. Remain protected from moving traffic and follow instructions from the emergency services. Do not stand in a live lane.

Stop safely before using a handheld phone. A passenger may call while the vehicle is moving when local law permits and this can be done without distracting the driver.

Report the road name or number, direction, nearby exit or landmark, vehicle description and the wrong-way driver’s approximate location and direction.

Possible causes include confusion at junctions, poor visibility, unfamiliar roads, impairment, navigation errors, turning around illegally or deliberately ignoring traffic signs.

Slow down at unfamiliar junctions, read signs before turning, verify the road layout and do not rely exclusively on navigation instructions.

No. Traffic signs, signals, markings and instructions from authorised persons always take precedence over navigation guidance.

Traffic lights are signals that use coloured lights, arrows or road-user symbols to regulate traffic movements.

A red light requires road users to stop before the stop line or signal and remain stopped until movement is permitted.

A steady amber light normally requires drivers to stop unless they are already too close to stop safely. It warns that the signal is changing to red.

A green light permits road users to pass the signal, but only when the route is clear and the intended movement is otherwise legal.

No. You may still have to give way to pedestrians, cyclists, oncoming traffic or other road users when turning or following a conditional arrow.

No. Do not enter when congestion is likely to leave you stopped inside the intersection and obstructing crossing traffic.

Stop before the stop line. When no stop line is provided, stop before the traffic light or at another legally prescribed position.

No. The required stop must normally be completed before the stop line. Do not stop on a pedestrian or cycle crossing.

Stop when this can be done safely. Continue only when you are already too close to stop without creating danger.

No. Do not accelerate to avoid stopping. Maintain control and stop unless doing so safely is no longer possible.

They have the same general meaning as circular lights, but the prohibition or permission applies only to the direction shown by the arrow.

It may permit travel in the indicated direction while other movements remain prohibited. Drivers may still have to give way to conflicting traffic and pedestrians.

Not universally. Drivers must follow the complete local sign arrangement. A traffic signal does not necessarily cancel a separate regulatory prohibition.

Only where local law or a specific sign or signal expressly permits it. There is no universal right to turn on red.

It warns of a potential hazard and normally allows cautious passage. The ordinary priority arrangement remains applicable.

Reduce speed, observe the intersection carefully and follow the applicable priority signs or default priority rules.

Its meaning depends on local law. At railway crossings and some movable bridges, flashing red lights normally require road users to stop.

A red cross normally closes the lane, a green downward arrow opens it and an amber diagonal arrow instructs drivers to leave the lane in the indicated direction.

No. Move out of the lane safely before reaching the red cross unless an authorised person or emergency rule directs otherwise.

It warns that the lane is closing or unavailable ahead. Drivers must move into the adjacent lane indicated by the arrow when safe.

Yes. A signal displaying a bicycle symbol applies to the road users legally covered by that signal rather than to general motor traffic.

Yes. Pedestrian lights normally use red and green human figures to indicate whether pedestrians may begin crossing.

It normally warns that the crossing period is about to end. Pedestrians who have not started should wait for the next green signal.

A person who entered lawfully should continue without unnecessary delay. Turning drivers must allow the crossing to be completed safely.

Yes. Public-transport signals may use bars, circles, triangles or other symbols that apply only to authorised service vehicles.

They commonly replace the priority arrangement at that location. Priority signs may apply again when the normal signals are inactive or flashing.

Yes. Instructions from an authorised traffic controller normally take precedence over lights, signs, markings and ordinary rules.

Reduce speed and follow the priority signs, temporary signals, authorised personnel or default priority rules that apply.

Yes, when you entered lawfully and must leave the intersection. Complete the movement cautiously without endangering other road users.

No. Drivers may proceed but must continue at a safe and legal speed.

This depends on local law. In many countries, a driver temporarily stopped in traffic is still considered to be driving and may not use a handheld device.

A traffic mirror is a convex roadside mirror that helps road users see around an obstruction or into a road with limited visibility.

They may be placed near intersections, narrow roads, bends, car-park exits, private driveways, tunnels or other locations where buildings, vegetation or road geometry obstruct the view.

A convex surface provides a wider field of view than a flat mirror, allowing more of the approaching road to be seen.

No. The reflected image is distorted, and objects normally appear smaller and farther away than they really are.

Not reliably. The curved image makes it difficult to estimate how fast another road user is approaching.

No. Distance can appear greater than it really is, so an approaching vehicle may reach the intersection sooner than expected.

Yes. Its position and viewing angle may leave parts of the road outside the reflected image. Small cyclists, motorcycles or pedestrians may also be difficult to notice.

No. It does not change priority. Drivers must continue to follow stop signs, give-way signs, traffic lights and the ordinary priority rules.

No. Another road user may be outside the reflected area, hidden by glare or too small to notice. Always check the road directly before proceeding.

Yes. The mirror does not replace the mandatory complete stop. Stop at the prescribed position, then use direct observation and the mirror as additional information.

Yes. You may proceed only when traffic with priority can continue without being forced to brake, stop or change direction.

Approach slowly, stop when required and scan the mirror for movement. Then look directly in both directions and continue only after confirming that the road is clear.

No. Alternate between the mirror and direct observation. The mirror should supplement rather than replace normal checks.

Yes. Rain, water droplets and spray may blur or partially obscure the reflected image.

Yes. Dew, condensation, frost, ice or snow may make the mirror difficult or impossible to use.

Yes. Sunlight may create glare or reflections that hide approaching road users.

Yes. Reflected headlights may make it difficult to determine the exact direction, distance or speed of an approaching vehicle.

Yes. Wind, impacts, vandalism, vibration or temperature changes may alter its orientation and make the reflected view inaccurate.

Do not rely on it. Proceed with additional caution and report the defect to the responsible road authority or property owner.

No. The applicable road or posted speed limit remains in force, but restricted visibility normally requires a lower approach speed.

No. Use the horn only where local law permits it and a warning is reasonably necessary to prevent danger.

Yes. It may help them observe approaching traffic, but they must also look directly and follow the applicable crossing and priority rules.

A mirror may generally be installed on private property with the owner’s permission, subject to local rules. Installing one on, above or beside a public road normally requires permission from the road authority.

No. Removing vegetation, relocating parking, improving the intersection layout or changing traffic circulation may provide a safer and more reliable solution.

Check behind and around the vehicle for pedestrians, cyclists, other vehicles and obstacles. Use mirrors and cameras where available, but also look directly because monitoring systems can have blind spots.

In many countries, reversing is treated as a manoeuvre and the reversing driver must give way to other road users. The exact legal requirements depend on national traffic rules.

No. Reversing should normally be limited to the distance necessary to complete the manoeuvre safely. Driving forward generally provides better visibility and vehicle control.

A U-turn is a manoeuvre used to reverse a vehicle's direction so that it continues along the road in the opposite direction.

Check traffic in all relevant directions, mirrors and blind spots, and look for pedestrians, cyclists and other road users. Make sure there is sufficient visibility and space and that the manoeuvre is permitted.

No. U-turns may be prohibited by traffic signs or road rules and should never be attempted where visibility, road layout or traffic conditions make the manoeuvre unsafe.

A city limit marks the boundary of a city, town, village, locality or municipality. On roads, it is often indicated by a place-name or boundary sign.

No. A city-limit or locality sign may simply identify a place or administrative boundary. A legally defined built-up area can use a different sign or definition.

No. In some countries a locality or boundary sign has consequences for traffic rules, while in others it mainly identifies the place. Drivers must follow the traffic signs and rules that apply in that country.

Not always. Some signs indicate an administrative municipal boundary, while others identify a city, town, village or locality without exactly following the municipality's legal boundary.

A city limit identifies the boundary of a named place or administrative area. A built-up area is a traffic-law concept that may affect rules such as default speed limits. The two boundaries can coincide, but they do not have to.

A tourist attraction is a place that visitors travel to because of its cultural, historical, natural, recreational or entertainment value.

Examples include monuments, castles, museums, scenic locations, cultural sites, amusement parks and recreational destinations.

Yes. Many countries use tourist or direction signs to guide travellers toward important attractions and places of interest.

A licence plate is a plate displaying the registration identifier assigned to a vehicle. It allows authorities and other authorised systems to identify the vehicle's registration.

Yes. Licence plate, registration plate and number plate are different terms commonly used for the plate displaying a vehicle's official registration number.

Most motor vehicles used on public roads must display one or more registration plates, but requirements differ for motorcycles, trailers, agricultural vehicles and other special vehicle categories.

This depends on the country and vehicle type. Cars commonly require front and rear plates, while motorcycles and certain other vehicles may require only a rear plate.

Yes. A required registration plate must normally remain clearly visible and readable. It should not be hidden by luggage, dirt, accessories or other objects.

Generally no. Changing the characters, colours, dimensions or appearance of an official plate may make it invalid or illegal. Plates and authorised reproductions must comply with local specifications.

Follow the local reporting and replacement procedure. Many countries require the loss or theft to be reported to the police or vehicle-registration authority before a replacement plate can be issued.

A plate must remain legible and compliant with local requirements. If damage prevents it from being read or makes it invalid, it should be replaced according to the local registration procedure.

Some countries allow motorists to request a personalised registration combination. The available characters, formats and prohibited combinations are determined by the registration authority.

This varies between countries. In some systems the plate remains with the vehicle, while in others it remains associated with the registered holder and may be retained or returned when the vehicle is sold.

A bus is a motor vehicle designed to transport a relatively large number of passengers. It may be used for public transport, school transport, private services or other passenger transport.

A bus is commonly designed for frequent passenger boarding and may allow standing passengers, while a coach is generally designed for longer journeys with passengers seated. Exact legal definitions vary between countries.

Yes. Driving a vehicle designed to carry more than a specified number of passengers normally requires a dedicated bus or passenger-vehicle driving licence.

Only when the vehicle is designed and approved to carry standing passengers. Coaches and other vehicles designed exclusively for seated passengers must not be used beyond their approved passenger configuration.

Where seat belts are provided and local law requires their use, passengers must wear them correctly. Urban buses designed for standing passengers may have seating positions or operating conditions that differ from coaches.

Yes, where permitted. Bus lanes are commonly reserved for public transport buses, although local signs may also allow taxis, bicycles or other specified vehicles to use them.

No. Some countries require other drivers to give way to buses leaving designated stops, particularly in urban areas, while others apply the normal merging rules.

Yes. Passengers may be boarding, leaving or crossing the road near the bus. Reduce speed where necessary and watch carefully for pedestrians emerging from behind or in front of the vehicle.

They can. Some countries impose lower maximum speeds on buses than on passenger cars, particularly on high-speed roads. Different limits may apply to buses and coaches.

Yes, normally. Buses that satisfy the applicable construction and access requirements may use motorways, but they must obey any vehicle-specific speed limits, lane restrictions and other local rules.

Police help enforce traffic laws, manage traffic, investigate collisions and respond to dangerous situations. They may also carry out roadside checks and direct road users.

Yes. Lawful directions given by an authorised police officer must be followed. In many countries, those directions take precedence over traffic lights, road signs and normal priority rules.

Slow down, follow the officer's directions and stop at a safe location as instructed. Do not make sudden movements or continue driving unless directed to do so.

Yes, where authorised by local law. A police officer controlling traffic may instruct road users to proceed even when a traffic light or sign would normally require them to stop.

Yes. Police may require drivers to provide documents such as a driving licence, vehicle registration, identification or proof of insurance according to local law.

Yes. Traffic police may conduct legally authorised alcohol and drug checks using procedures such as breath, saliva or other approved tests.

Yes. Roads or lanes may be temporarily closed or traffic diverted because of collisions, emergencies, investigations, public events or other safety concerns.

Reduce speed, remain alert and follow all directions. Do not enter a closed area or interfere with emergency personnel, and leave sufficient space for emergency vehicles.

Follow the local rules for priority vehicles. Drivers generally have to make sufficient space, give way and stop where necessary so that the emergency vehicle can pass safely.

Yes, where local law permits it. Police or another authorised authority may require a vehicle to be moved when it obstructs traffic, creates danger or must be removed for operational reasons.

An ambulance is a specially equipped vehicle used to provide emergency medical assistance and transport sick or injured people.

This depends on the local traffic rules and warning signals being used. Ambulances responding to emergencies commonly use flashing lights and a siren to indicate that other road users must make way.

Remain calm and make sufficient space for it to pass. Slow down or stop where necessary, but avoid sudden or dangerous manoeuvres.

Not necessarily in your exact position. Move or stop in a way that creates a safe passage without blocking an intersection, pedestrian crossing or another part of the road needed by the ambulance.

Emergency vehicles may be allowed to pass a red light during an urgent response under special legal conditions. The precise rules differ between countries, and the ambulance driver must still take appropriate precautions.

Many countries permit emergency vehicles to depart from certain normal speed rules during an urgent mission, subject to safety requirements and national legislation.

Yes, when responding to an emergency and legally permitted to do so. Other road users should create space and keep emergency corridors or access routes clear where required.

You should not use the passage created for an ambulance as a way to bypass congestion. Maintain a safe distance and continue to obey the normal traffic rules.

No. The use of warning lights and sirens depends on the urgency of the mission and local regulations. An ambulance transporting a patient does not necessarily need to use emergency signals throughout the journey.

Reduce speed and remain alert. Medical personnel, patients or other emergency workers may be entering the road, and the ambulance may need to move unexpectedly.

A European emission standard, or Euro standard, classifies vehicles according to the emissions requirements they had to satisfy when approved for use in the European market.

They are successive generations of European emission requirements. In general, a higher Euro number represents a newer and stricter emissions standard, although the exact limits differ according to vehicle and fuel type.

Depending on the vehicle and standard, limits apply to pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Newer standards also regulate additional environmental aspects.

No. Euro standards primarily regulate harmful air pollutants from vehicles. Carbon-dioxide emissions and fuel or energy consumption are subject to separate measurements and regulatory requirements.

The Euro standard may appear on the vehicle registration certificate, certificate of conformity or other official vehicle documentation. Its location and format vary between countries.

The date of first registration can provide an indication, but it does not always determine the standard with certainty. The official vehicle documents or type-approval information provide the more reliable classification.

Yes. The applicable emission limits and testing requirements can differ according to the vehicle category, engine and fuel type even when vehicles belong to the same general Euro generation.

Yes. Many low-emission zones use the vehicle's Euro standard together with factors such as fuel type and vehicle category to determine whether it may enter.

Not normally. The official Euro standard is linked to the vehicle's approved emissions classification. Retrofitting emission-control equipment does not necessarily result in a different official Euro classification.

Euro 7 is the latest European emissions framework for road vehicles. It builds on earlier Euro standards and also introduces requirements covering areas such as non-exhaust particle emissions and battery durability.

A pothole is a hole or depression that develops in a road surface when the pavement becomes damaged or deteriorates.

Potholes can develop through a combination of water, temperature changes, traffic loads and deterioration of the road material. Cracks can gradually expand until pieces of the surface break away.

A pothole can cause a vehicle to change direction suddenly, lose stability or suffer tyre, wheel or suspension damage. Deep potholes can present a particularly serious hazard at higher speeds.

Reduce speed when necessary, maintain control of the vehicle and avoid abrupt steering or braking. Only move around the pothole when this can be done safely without endangering other road users.

If possible, reduce your speed before reaching the pothole. Sudden heavy braking or steering while passing over a damaged surface can make the vehicle less stable.

Yes. A pothole can disturb the steering or balance of a motorcycle and may cause the rider to lose control.

Yes. Bicycle wheels can be strongly affected by deep holes or sharp edges, particularly when the cyclist has little time or space to avoid the hazard.

Yes. Severe impacts can damage tyres, wheel rims, suspension components, steering parts or wheel alignment.

No. A sudden evasive movement may create a greater danger by bringing the vehicle into conflict with cyclists, pedestrians, oncoming traffic or vehicles in another lane.

Yes. Depending on the country's traffic-sign system, an uneven-road or general-danger warning sign may be used where poor road conditions create a significant hazard.

A path is a relatively narrow route intended primarily for pedestrians and, where permitted, other road users or small vehicles.

Not necessarily. A footpath is specifically intended for pedestrians, while a path may also permit cyclists or other users according to local rules.

No. A cycle path is specifically designated for bicycles and other permitted users. An ordinary path does not automatically have that legal status.

This depends on the legal status, width and signs applying to the path. Some paths permit cyclists, while others are reserved for pedestrians or particular users.

This depends on local law. Some paths prohibit motor vehicles entirely, while narrow vehicles may be permitted on other paths unless traffic signs restrict access.

Yes. A narrow path can legally form part of the public-road network even when it is unsuitable for ordinary cars.

No. Paths can be paved, gravelled, compacted or unsurfaced depending on their location and purpose.

Yes. Signs can reserve a path for particular road users or prohibit certain vehicles, regardless of whether they could physically fit on it.

The applicable local priority rules determine who must give way. Special rules often apply when a minor path joins an ordinary road.

Yes, where both are permitted. Faster users should adapt their speed and avoid endangering or unnecessarily obstructing pedestrians.

Yes. At the crossing, users must follow the applicable priority signs, traffic lights, road markings and general right-of-way rules.

No. Its legal classification depends on the definitions and regulations of the country concerned. A narrow route might instead be a footpath, cycle path, private access road or another type of facility.

Particulates, or particulate matter, are very small solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air.

PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of up to approximately 10 micrometres. PM2.5 refers to finer particles with a diameter of up to approximately 2.5 micrometres.

Road traffic can produce particles through engine exhaust, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface wear. Passing traffic can also resuspend dust already present on the road.

Yes. Combustion in diesel engines can produce very small soot particles. Modern diesel vehicles commonly use particulate filters to capture a large proportion of these exhaust particles.

A particulate filter is an exhaust-treatment device designed to trap particulate matter produced by an engine. Diesel particulate filters are commonly known as DPFs.

Yes. Petrol engines can also produce particulate emissions, particularly certain direct-injection engines. Appropriate emission-control systems may therefore include particulate filters.

Fully electric vehicles produce no exhaust particulates from a combustion engine, but particles can still result from tyre wear, road wear and braking.

Vehicle-emission regulation is increasingly addressing non-exhaust emissions. The European Euro 7 framework includes requirements concerning brake-particle emissions and tyre abrasion.

No. Particulate matter consists of tiny airborne particles, while carbon dioxide is a gas. They are different types of vehicle emissions and are regulated for different environmental reasons.

Measures include effective particulate filters, cleaner vehicle technologies, correctly maintained emission-control systems and reductions in brake, tyre and road-wear emissions.

Air pollution is contamination of the air by gases, particles or other substances that can adversely affect human health, the environment or ecosystems.

Vehicles produce pollutants through fuel combustion, exhaust systems, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface interaction. Moving traffic can also resuspend dust already present on the road.

Important traffic-related pollutants include nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. Their relative importance depends on the vehicle, fuel and driving conditions.

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is an air pollutant associated particularly with combustion processes and road traffic. High concentrations are commonly found near busy roads and densely trafficked urban areas.

Particulate matter consists of tiny solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air. Road traffic can produce particles from exhaust, brakes, tyres and road surfaces.

No. Carbon dioxide is primarily regulated as a greenhouse gas because of its contribution to climate change. Local air-quality pollution generally focuses on substances such as nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, ozone and other pollutants that directly affect air quality and health.

Fully electric vehicles produce no combustion-engine exhaust emissions while driving, but they can still contribute to non-exhaust particulate emissions through tyres, brakes and road wear.

Yes. Concentrations of traffic-related pollutants can be higher close to heavily trafficked roads because many emissions occur close to ground level and near where people live and travel.

A low-emission zone is an area where access by more polluting vehicles is restricted in order to reduce traffic-related air pollution. Access criteria may depend on factors such as fuel type, vehicle category and emission standard.

Measures include cleaner vehicles, stricter emission standards, effective emission-control equipment, low-emission zones, public transport, cycling and walking, as well as traffic-management measures that reduce unnecessary congestion and emissions.

Rush hour is a period when unusually large numbers of people travel at the same time, resulting in increased traffic and often congestion.

Rush hour commonly occurs during the morning and late afternoon or evening on working days, but the exact times vary according to the city, road and local travel patterns.

No. The term does not mean that congestion lasts exactly one hour. In busy urban areas, peak traffic conditions may continue for several hours.

Congestion develops when traffic demand approaches or exceeds the available road capacity. Intersections, merging traffic, collisions, roadworks and weather can make the congestion worse.

Yes. Leave sufficient distance to react to sudden braking and frequent changes in traffic speed. Avoid following another vehicle too closely even when traffic is moving slowly.

Unnecessary lane changes can create additional conflicts and may not significantly reduce journey time. Choose an appropriate lane, observe surrounding traffic and change lane only when it can be done safely.

Yes. Roads equipped with variable traffic management may display lower speed limits during congestion. Drivers must follow the speed limit currently indicated.

A rush-hour lane is an additional traffic lane that can be opened during busy periods to increase road capacity. It may use a lane or shoulder that is closed to normal traffic at other times.

No. Such a lane may only be used when traffic signals or signs indicate that it is open. Never assume that congestion alone permits its use.

Check current traffic conditions and expected journey times, allow additional travel time and consider an alternative route, departure time or mode of transport where appropriate.

A road code is the body of traffic rules and regulations governing how road users must behave on public roads.

A road code can regulate subjects such as priority, speed, overtaking, turning, parking, traffic signals, road signs and road markings, as well as the responsibilities of different road users.

No. Although many traffic rules and signs are similar internationally, each country establishes its own traffic legislation and may apply different rules, signs, speed limits and requirements.