New Traffic Rules in 2025: Updated Fines Every Driver Should Know

Traffic laws are updated regularly to ensure safer roads and more disciplined driving. In 2025, several new rules and revised penalties have been introduced to promote road safety, curb reckless driving, and encourage responsible behaviour among motorists. Knowing these changes can help you avoid unnecessary fines and legal trouble.

Stricter Penalties for Over-Speeding

Over-speeding remains one of the top causes of road accidents. The latest rules increase fines significantly for exceeding speed limits. Fines now range from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 for light motor vehicles and ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 for heavier vehicles, with repeated offences leading to licence suspension.

Higher Fines for Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is now met with harsher penalties. Offenders face fines starting at ₹10,000, along with the possibility of up to six months in jail. Repeat offenders can expect longer imprisonment terms and permanent licence cancellation.

No Mobile Phone Usage While Driving

Using a mobile phone for anything other than navigation while driving can now result in fines of up to ₹5,000. Authorities are also using AI-enabled cameras to detect such violations more efficiently.

Mandatory Seatbelt and Helmet Compliance

All passengers in a car, including those in the back seat, must wear seatbelts, or face a fine of ₹1,000 per unbelted passenger. Two-wheeler riders must ensure both the driver and pillion wear ISI-marked helmets, failing which fines can reach ₹2,000.

Wrong Lane Driving and Signal Violations

Improper lane changes, driving in the wrong direction, or running red lights now carry penalties of ₹5,000, with potential suspension of the driver’s licence for repeated violations.

Fines for Overloading Vehicles

Carrying goods or passengers beyond the permissible limit attracts a fine of ₹2,000 per extra passenger or additional weight, along with vehicle impoundment in severe cases.

Hit-and-Run Cases

The penalties for hit-and-run incidents have been made much stricter in 2025, with imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines up to ₹7 lakh depending on the severity of the accident.

Vehicle Fitness and Emission Compliance

Driving without a valid fitness certificate or failing emission tests can result in fines up to ₹10,000, along with temporary seizure of the vehicle until compliance is met.

Encouragement for Digital Driving Licences and RCs

While physical copies of documents are still valid, digital versions in approved apps are now widely accepted. However, failure to produce valid documents—physical or digital—can lead to fines up to ₹5,000.