In March, amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation took effect, tightening penalties for motorists who operate a vehicle without a valid diagnostic card. Under part 1.1 of article 12.5, the absence of a technical inspection now carries a fine of 2000 rubles, up from the previous maximum of 800 rubles. This change applies specifically to vehicles that require periodic technical inspections, underscoring the government’s emphasis on roadworthiness and safety checks. The new rule anchors the consequence to the vehicle’s inspection status rather than the driver’s behavior alone, making the diagnostic card a critical piece of compliance for those on the road.
Additionally, the one-fine-per-day principle remains in force. Once a decision has been issued against a driver, the limit resets only after 24 hours. If a driver is stopped again by traffic police on a subsequent day, a new penalty can be imposed. This structure aims to deter repeated offenses within a short time frame and to provide a clear, predictable framework for enforcers and motorists alike.
At the same time, there is still no widespread issuance of fines through traffic cameras for offenses captured on video or photo. Although discussions have persisted for years, camera-based penalties have not yet become routine practice in all regions. Modern systems, however, are capable of reading license plates with high accuracy, and contemporary neural networks can verify both the plate and the presence of a valid diagnostic card within the Unified Automated Information System for Technical Inspection, known as EAISTO. This implies that the potential for automation in detecting non-compliant vehicles remains on the horizon, even as the formal rollout continues to vary by jurisdiction. A cautious observer notes that as these technologies mature, the interplay between digital records and real-world enforcement could become more seamless, prompting drivers to maintain up-to-date inspections to avoid friction and fines on the road. (Cited from Drive as a recent commentary on this topic.)
- Driving practices and regulatory updates are frequently discussed in automotive channels and public forums
In practical terms, drivers should verify the status of their diagnostic cards before heading out on long trips, especially if their vehicle requires periodic inspections. Local authorities can access EAISTO data to confirm whether a vehicle holds a valid inspection, and motorists without up-to-date documentation risk penalties that can mount quickly if violations accumulate. Keeping the diagnostic card current reduces the risk of unexpected stops and fines, and helps ensure that vehicles on the road meet safety standards established by law. Observing these requirements not only avoids financial penalties but also contributes to broader road safety initiatives that protect passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. This evolving landscape of enforcement reflects a broader push toward more reliable, data-driven regulation of vehicle safety, with citizens encouraged to stay informed about any changes in the law and to maintain compliance through regular inspections. The practical takeaway is simple: stay compliant, stay safe, and stay ahead of potential enforcement actions by ensuring the diagnostic card is valid and readily available to authorities when needed.