Traffic rules in the Republic of Cyprus: basics
In the Republic of Cyprus, traffic drives on the left and strict fines apply for major violations. Typical guidelines: parking in a prohibited area — from 100 EUR, seat belt — 150 EUR, using a phone while driving — 150 EUR, running a red light — 300 EUR. Speed limits are usually: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h outside urban areas, 100 km/h on highways (minimum 65 km/h). For serious speeding and high blood alcohol levels, the case may be referred to court.
- Left-hand driving: what to know
- Speed: limits and fines
- Parking: what you get fined for
- Drinking and driving
- Common fines
- How to pay a fine
- Glossary
- Frequently asked questions
Left-hand driving: what to know
- Entering a roundabout — clockwise, priority to vehicles already on the roundabout.
- Most common mistakes by visitors — moving to the right lane out of habit and incorrect trajectory at intersections.
- Follow the road markings and signs: they are more important than “how the traffic is moving.”
Speed: limits and fines
Speed limits (typical for the Republic of Cyprus): 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h outside urban areas, 100 km/h on highways (minimum 65 km/h).
| Speeding | EUR | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 30% over the limit | 2 EUR per km/h over the limit | Penalty points may also apply |
| 30–50% over the limit | 3 EUR per km/h over the limit | Penalty points may also apply |
| 50–75% over the limit | 5 EUR per km/h over the limit | Penalty points may also apply |
| Over 75% above the limit | — | Typically referred to court; additional sanctions may apply |
Parking: what you get fined for
| Violation | EUR | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Parking in a prohibited area | 100 EUR | One of the most common fines |
| Next to a pedestrian crossing or bus stop | 150 EUR | Follow the road markings and signs |
| In spaces reserved for disabled persons | 300 EUR | High fine, often enforced |
Drinking and driving
In the Republic of Cyprus, permissible levels depend on the driver category and are measured by official control methods. When in doubt, the safest option is not to drive.
Detailed norms and fines: how much you can drink and drive in the Republic of Cyprus.
Refusing an alcohol test may lead to court referral.
Common fines
- Seat belt (including passengers) — 150 EUR.
- Phone in hand while driving — 150 EUR.
- Running a red light — 300 EUR.
- Transporting a child without a car seat — 150 EUR (penalty points often also applied).
- Riding a motorcycle without a helmet — 200 EUR.
- Failing to yield to a pedestrian — 200 EUR.
- Driving under a prohibitory sign — 150 EUR.
How to pay a fine
You cannot pay fines on the spot directly to a police officer: an official document must be issued. Payment is made through a police station/municipality or online (depending on the type of fine).
Practical guide: how to pay a fine online in the Republic of Cyprus.
For camera-detected fines, it is useful to check them online in advance via CyCameraSystem and then pay through JCCsmart (via the police section). Details: fines and checking unpaid camera fines.
Glossary
- Penalty points (penalty points) — points assigned for certain violations; when a threshold is reached, further measures may be applied (including court procedures).
- Out-of-court fine (out-of-court fine) — a fine that can be paid without court within the prescribed period; if overdue, the case may be referred to court.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common fines for visitors?
Parking in a prohibited area, speeding, phone in hand while driving, and intersection violations (including running a red light).
Where do people most often make mistakes due to left-hand driving?
At intersections, when exiting secondary roads, and on roundabouts. It helps to habitually anticipate the correct lane using road markings.
Can you expect a warning instead of a fine?
Sometimes an officer may issue a warning, but it should not be relied upon. It is more practical to follow the rules and carry your documents.
Author
I am a person who is not afraid to change life when my heart tells me that something greater lies ahead. I am originally from Belarus. I have journeyed from pedagogical and economic education to the financial sector and many years of work in logistics — a world where everything moves, changes,…
