Cyprus authorities once again discuss the introduction of an “alcohol interlock” system in vehicles

The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works of Cyprus is once again considering the introduction of an alcohol interlock system — a device that requires a driver to pass a breath alcohol test before the engine can be started. The issue is being discussed as part of measures to reduce the number of road accidents related to alcohol consumption and concerns both public and private vehicle fleets.

The system is already used in a number of European countries, including Austria, France, Sweden, Finland, Spain and Belgium.

MP Charalambos Theopemptou addressed a question to Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis regarding possible legislative changes that would allow the use of such a system in school buses, public transport, as well as in vehicles of drivers previously caught driving under the influence. The minister confirmed that this option would be examined together with the competent authorities.

At the same time, he noted that the issue had been considered before but was postponed due to a number of limitations. These include the outdated vehicle fleet in Cyprus, which does not always allow for the installation of such devices, as well as the high cost: around €2,000 for the first year of operation and additional maintenance costs in subsequent years.

Mandatory implementation of the system would require amendments to several laws, a review of the existing penalty system and the creation of control mechanisms, including medical and technical monitoring of offending drivers. At present, the installation of such devices is not предусмотрена in public transport contracts or for school buses.

The minister emphasized that as the vehicle fleet is renewed, technical limitations will gradually decrease, since new vehicles already provide for the possibility of installing such systems.

According to traffic police data, 43 people died in road accidents in Cyprus in 2025; in five cases, alcohol or drugs were found in the blood. According to estimates by the European Commission, up to 25% of road deaths in the EU are linked to alcohol consumption.