Starting February 15, Latvian authorities will begin confiscating cars that bear Russian license plates and have not been re-registered as Latvian vehicles. Reports from RIA News confirm that these vehicles will be removed from circulation and, under the new framework, transferred to Ukraine as part of the ongoing policies. The move marks a significant tightening of traffic and registration rules for cars initially registered in the Russian Federation, and it reflects Latvia’s broader security and border-control priorities amid regional tensions.
The policy, approved on November 2, establishes a clear deadline: any car registered in Russia and kept in Latvia as of February 14, 2024 must be either re-registered in Latvia or taken out of the country. After that date, vehicles with Russian plates may only pass through Latvia in transit, with a single permitted pass through Latvian territory. This restriction effectively limits the free, long-term use of Russian-registered cars within Latvia and signals a tightening stance on cross-border vehicle movements in this context.
To implement the rule, vehicle owners will be required to submit details about the vehicle and the intended travel window to the Road Safety Directorate via the official information service. If a Russian-registered car continues to operate in Latvia after February 14, 2024, the authorities reserve the right to confiscate the vehicle. The transition phase is designed to ensure compliance while providing a mechanism for accountability and enforcement through direct reporting from owners.
In a related development, the Russian Foreign Ministry previously advised its citizens against visiting Latvia by private car, a precautionary recommendation that adds another layer of practical consideration for travelers and residents navigating the evolving regulatory environment. The evolving rules underscore Latvia’s evaluation of transport, border transport safety, and the implications for residents who relied on Russian-registered vehicles for daily mobility or cross-border trips. Marked sources follow the policy updates to reflect official stances and practical implications for vehicle owners and travelers who may be affected by these changes.