RussiaRussia
Traffic rules
Russia
1. Russia
Russia extends across eastern Europe and northern Asia, and its enormous size makes long-distance driving a defining feature of the country. Traffic drives on the right. Roads range from dense urban networks around major cities to federal highways crossing sparsely populated regions where fuel, services and settlements may be separated by considerable distances. Russian is the principal language used on road signs, and destination names and other written information are generally displayed in the Cyrillic alphabet, which is worth preparing for if you cannot read the script.
Seasonal conditions are especially important. Passenger cars must use winter tyres in December, January and February, and severe snow, ice and extreme cold can affect roads for much longer in many regions. Russia has both free and tolled high-speed roads, including sections of the M-4, M-11 and M-12, but there is no nationwide vignette for passenger cars. Another notable difference from much of Europe is the general 60 km/h urban speed limit; on motorways the normal maximum is 110 km/h, although suitably designated sections may permit up to 130 km/h.
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Can you drive after drinking alcohol in Russia?
Driving while intoxicated is prohibited. Do not drink alcohol before driving or drive while impaired by drugs or medication.
What speed limits apply to passenger cars in Russia?
Built-up areas: The general maximum speed in built-up areas is 60 km/h, unless signs establish another limit. Higher limits may be authorised on suitable signed roads.
Outside built-up areas: For ordinary passenger cars, the general maximum outside built-up areas is 90 km/h, unless another limit is legally established or signed.
Motorways: For ordinary passenger cars, the general motorway maximum is 110 km/h. On suitable motorway sections, the road authority may establish a higher signed limit of up to 130 km/h.
Residential areas: The maximum speed in residential zones, bicycle zones and courtyard areas is 20 km/h.
Are seat belts compulsory in Russia?
Yes. Drivers and passengers must use seat belts where the vehicle is equipped with them.
Can you use a mobile phone while driving in Russia?
A driver must not use a telephone while the vehicle is moving unless it can be used with a hands-free system that does not require holding the phone.
When must children use a child restraint in Russia?
In a passenger car designed with seat belts, children under 7 must use a child-restraint system suitable for their weight and height. Children aged 7 to 11 inclusive may use an appropriate restraint or the seat belt in the rear, but must use an appropriate child restraint in the front passenger seat. Install and use the restraint according to its instructions.
Are motorcycle helmets compulsory in Russia?
Yes. A motorcycle rider must wear a fastened motorcycle helmet and must not carry a passenger who is not wearing a fastened helmet.
