New Traffic Regulations Introduced to Improve Road Safety in Turkey
Turkey’s Ministry of Transport, in cooperation with the General Directorate of Traffic, has announced a new set of traffic regulations aimed at improving road safety on highways and city roads.
In an official statement, the ministry said that the new rules came into effect in May 2026.
According to the statement, the changes have created a new reality for millions of vehicle owners. Regular inspections at TÜVTÜRK are no longer just a routine check of the engine and brakes. They now include a much stricter review of personal safety equipment.
The most important change is that some emergency items have been reclassified from “minor defects” to “major defects” (Ağır Kusur).
Updated List of Mandatory Equipment in Your Car
Reflective Safety Vests (Required for Everyone)
It is no longer enough to have just one reflective vest for the driver. Under the new rules, the vehicle must carry the same number of reflective vests as the number of passengers listed in the car’s registration. The goal is to make sure all passengers are clearly visible if they need to leave the vehicle at night on the highway.
Upgraded First Aid Kit
The contents of the first aid kit have been updated to include modern medical supplies and items for dealing with heat-related emergencies. Inspectors will also closely check expiration dates.
Fire Extinguisher (Digital Standard)
The fire extinguisher must have a capacity suitable for the type of vehicle and be equipped with an accurate pressure indicator. Its condition will be checked electronically during the inspection.
Two Warning Triangles
Drivers must carry at least two warning triangles that meet high-reflectivity standards and can be seen from a distance of at least 150 meters.
Consequences of Missing Equipment During TÜVTÜRK Inspection
Under the laws introduced in May 2026, any missing item from this list will result in an immediate inspection failure.
This means:
Driving Ban: The vehicle will be given only a short period to fix the issue, and it cannot be driven legally after that deadline.
Financial Penalties: If the vehicle is stopped at a traffic checkpoint without the required equipment, the driver may face heavy fines, which can be doubled for repeat violations.
These measures are part of Turkey’s 2026 Vision, which aims to reduce road accident deaths by 50%.
Field studies show that many fatal accidents happen after the initial collision, when passengers leave their disabled vehicles without being visible to other drivers. The mandatory reflective vests are designed to address this risk.
Self-Check Tips Before Visiting TÜVTÜRK
Make sure all reflective vests are stored in an easy-to-reach place inside the passenger compartment, not buried in the trunk.
Check the expiration date on the fire extinguisher, as inspectors now verify the exact month and day.
Ensure the warning triangles are sturdy and will not fall over in strong winds on highways.
