Immediate Driving Licence Suspension for Certain Offences

​Following legislation passed last December, Cyprus is tightening the screws on Drunk driving and drug driving offenses. Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades is officially delegating his authority to the Police Chief, granting officers the power to immediately suspend driving licenses for motorists under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

​The Procedure:

• ​Roadside Detection: If a driver tests positive during a check, they will be arrested and taken to a station.
• ​Formal Notice: At the station, the driver will receive a formal suspension notice.
• ​System Integration: The Road Transport Department will be alerted instantly to update electronic records, ensuring any “license-less” driving is flagged.

​Suspension Timelines:

• ​Drugs: The suspension sticks until the driver provides a medical certificate proving they are drug-free.
• ​Alcohol: Depending on the severity of the offense, the ban lasts either until the court hearing or for a period of one to two months.