Ukraine

Driving in Ukraine

If you drive to Ukraine you must possess a valid International Driving Licence.

There is a zero tolerance policy on drink driving. You should avoid driving outside urban areas. Driving standards are poor and roads are of variable quality. There are a high number of traffic accidents, including fatalities. Take extra care.

We have received reports of traffic police stopping vehicles and levying on the spot fines for minor traffic violations. Ukrainian law allows the police to stop a vehicle but only if a traffic offence has been committed, though a faulty light bulb is sufficient grounds for this. However, the police are not permitted to fine you on the spot. They should issue a ticket and send a report to the court to decide if a penalty should be paid. You are entitled to know why you have been stopped and to ask for the name and rank of the police officer that has stopped you. The police do not have the right to confiscate your driving license or other documentation. If requested to pay a fine you should decline and, if necessary, insist on going to the police station to speak to someone