Attention, vacationers! High fines in Europe – that’s how expensive it can be!

Attention, vacationers! High fines in Europe – that’s how expensive it can be!

Holidays abroad can quickly become expensive if traffic rules are not followed. In many European countries the fines are significantly higher than in Germany. This is particularly important for travelers during their stays in countries such as Norway, the Netherlands or Switzerland. The ADAC lawyers point out that fines can also be enforced in Germany, which entails additional financial risks.

The fines for speeding are quite high in some countries. For example, in Norway you will be fined up to 610 euros if you drive 20 km/h too fast. In the Netherlands and Switzerland, the penalties are 225 euros and 190 euros respectively for the same violation. In Germany, however, the fine for such speeding starts at 60 euros.

Penalties for drunk driving

The regulations regarding driving under the influence of alcohol vary considerably. In Denmark, Finland and Sweden, the penalties are high and depend on the driver's income. Switzerland, on the other hand, imposes fines of 635 euros from 0.5 per mille, while Norway charges 560 euros for just 0.2 per mille. In Poland and Italy, drivers also have to expect fines starting at 600 euros and 545 euros respectively, while in Germany these start at 500 euros.

Illegal parking is also expensive in the Netherlands, where fines start at 120 euros. In addition, penalties of up to 200 euros are possible in Estonia.

Technological fines and discounts

Using a smartphone while driving is punished with 875 euros in Norway and 430 euros in the Netherlands, while Germany has a starting price of 100 euros. An interesting tip from the ADAC lawyers: In some countries there are discounts for immediate payment of fines. Drivers in Spain can save 50 percent if they pay within 20 days, and in Italy it is 30 percent if they pay within five days.

Fines starting from 70 euros (in Austria from 25 euros) can be enforced in Germany. This regulation has also applied to penalties from Switzerland since 2024. The Federal Office of Justice is responsible for enforcement in Germany. Points or driving bans currently remain limited to the respective country, although the EU is working on a regulation for Europe-wide driving bans.

Lack of uniformity in catalogs of fines

There is currently no uniform catalog of fines for Europe or the EU. However, the EU has influence on the national catalog of fines through common guidelines. These directives allow member states to agree on common standards, which are then implemented into national law. For example, the Vienna Convention on Traffic Signs obliges member states to adopt uniform regulations.

The EU directives create minimum standards for traffic regulations such as the requirement to wear seat belts and child seats. However, there are differences in the fines for various violations, for example red light violations. Countries like Finland and Denmark even adjust fines based on the income of traffic offenders.

It remains important that drivers follow the specific traffic rules of the country in which they are driving. Otherwise, high fines, which may also be enforced in your home country, can come as an unpleasant surprise. This highlights the importance of finding out about the applicable traffic regulations in the countries you are traveling to before you travel.

For further details and information about traffic offenses in Europe, those interested can use the platforms of The West and Catalog of fines visit.