Slovakia changes road rules: higher fines, pedestrian protection and e-scooter requirements

Changes to Slovak road legislation covering fines, pedestrian crossings and small electric vehicles took effect on 1 September 2026. The relevant provisions are contained in Act No. 131/2026.

Exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 km/h in a built-up area or more than 60 km/h outside one carries a fine of EUR 500–1000 in summary proceedings, including on-the-spot proceedings. Ordinary administrative proceedings provide for EUR 800–1300 and a driving ban of 6 months to 3 years.

Lower excess speeds have different penalty ranges. Up to 20 km/h over the limit in a built-up area or up to 30 km/h outside one can attract up to EUR 50 in summary proceedings and EUR 100 in ordinary proceedings. For excess speeds of 21–50 km/h in a built-up area or 31–60 km/h outside one, the respective ranges are EUR 30–400 and EUR 150–600.

A third serious offence within 12 months requires a rehabilitation programme with a traffic psychologist, a refresher course and a driving competence test. Another serious offence within the relevant period is grounds for withdrawing the entitlement to drive. This does not mean an automatic lifetime ban: reinstatement is governed by separate statutory conditions.

The list of offences for which the registered vehicle keeper may be held responsible has been expanded. It includes failing to maintain a safe distance, holding a phone while driving, not wearing a seat belt and driving in a prohibited direction.

Drivers must allow pedestrians who are already on a crossing or about to enter it to cross, and approach at a speed that permits them to stop. Trams are exempt. Pedestrians must assess vehicles’ speed and distance, avoid stepping out suddenly and not be distracted by a phone or another device before or during crossing.

Small electric vehicles include e-scooters without a seat whose motor cannot propel them above 25 km/h. They may be ridden on the road by people older than 15. Riders must preferentially use a cycle lane, cycle path or cycle crossing; riding on the pavement is generally prohibited unless a road sign permits it. Equipment required to carry a manufacturer’s plate may not be operated without it or with altered information.

The maximum speed is 10 km/h in pedestrian zones and 20 km/h in residential and school zones. Cyclists younger than 15 may ride on the right side of the pavement at walking speed without obstructing or endangering pedestrians. The law also provides exceptions for accompanying a cyclist younger than 10 and carrying a child of that age.

The ban on alcohol and other intoxicating substances also applies to passengers expected to participate actively in the vehicle’s movement through pedalling, braking or maintaining balance. This is not a general alcohol ban for all car passengers.