Traffic rules regarding strengthening penalties for bicycles using smartphones and being drunk driving 自転車のスマホ・酒気帯び罰則強化に関する交通ルール

Due to the enforcement of the revised Road Traffic Act, new penalties will be imposed on bicycle riders from November 1, 2024.

The act of talking on a smartphone or other device while riding a bicycle, or staring at the screen, is now prohibited and subject to penalties. However, operation while stopped is not subject to this.

● Violators: Imprisonment of up to 6 months or a fine of up to 100,000 yen

● If causing a traffic hazard: Imprisonment of up to 1 year or a fine of up to 300,000 yen

In addition to drunk driving on a bicycle, new penalties have been established for providing alcohol, riding with someone, or providing a bicycle.

● Violators: Imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to 500,000 yen

● Person providing a bicycle: Imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to 500,000 yen

● Person providing alcohol or a passenger: Imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of up to 300,000 yen

For more information, please visit the National Police Agency website.(Open in a new window /Japanese):

https://www.npa.go.jp/bureau/traffic/law/index.html

Click to open a PDF flyer.