If you are driving your own car or a rental vehicle in Montenegro, it is essential to understand the country’s traffic rules and the fines for breaking them. This will help you avoid unnecessary problems and make your trip through this beautiful country as pleasant as possible.
Stay with us until the end of this guide to learn reliable, up-to-date information about driving on Montenegrin roads.
Driver Requirements and Obligations in Montenegro
Let’s start with what you must have with you and what you should know before starting your engine. Montenegrin police require the following:
- Required documents
You must carry a valid driver’s license, the vehicle registration certificate, proof of insurance or a green card if you are visiting from abroad, and a personal identification document such as a passport or national ID. If you are driving someone else’s vehicle, you need written permission (DTV authorization). During a police check, be prepared to present all documents for identification purposes.
- Seat belts
All occupants must wear seat belts. Children must be placed in appropriate child seats, and there are age and height restrictions for sitting in the front passenger seat. Children under 12 must sit in the back, and if they are shorter than 135 cm, they must use a booster seat, even if they are older than 12.
- Use of lights
Headlights must be turned on at all times, both day and night. In conditions with reduced visibility, you must use fog lights or low-beam headlights. Headlights must be clean and in good condition to ensure proper visibility.
- Mobile phones
Using a mobile phone or any device that is not hands-free is strictly prohibited.
- Winter equipment
During the winter season, which is defined by law, certain roads and weather conditions require mandatory winter equipment. On mountain roads, this requirement often applies from mid-November until mid-April.
Legal Speed Limits in Montenegro
Speed limits according to Montenegrin law are as follows:
On roads outside populated areas, a driver must not exceed:
- 100 to 130 km/h on motorways
- 100 km/h on expressways
- 80 km/h on other roads
- 50 km/h in urban areas
There are additional limits for specific vehicles on motorways:
- 100 km/h for buses, except those transporting groups of children
- 90 km/h for vehicles over 3,500 kg and for any vehicle towing a trailer without brakes
A driver must always follow the speed indicated on road signs.
Traffic Fines in Montenegro
Traffic fines vary depending on the violation. Here are the most common ones:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol: 200 to 2,000 EUR
- Exceeding the speed limit by 20 km/h in urban areas: 50 to 150 EUR
- Running a red light: 80 to 350 EUR
- Not wearing a seat belt: 40 to 100 EUR
- Illegal parking: 60 to 150 EUR
- Using a mobile phone while driving: 60 to 150 EUR
- Not carrying required documents: 60 to 150 EUR, and up to 2,000 EUR if you are driving without a valid driver’s license altogether
- Driving without daytime running lights: 30 to 80 EUR
- Driving without lights at night or in low-visibility conditions: 60 to 150 EUR
- Not wearing a reflective vest when exiting the car after a breakdown or accident: 0 to 80 EUR
Essential Warnings and Tips for Driving in Montenegro
- Mountain and winding roads
Montenegro is known for sharp curves, steep climbs, and sudden descents. Local drivers familiar with the terrain may brake abruptly or overtake unexpectedly. Keep a safe distance and slow down before curves. Many drivers cite fast downhill traffic and large trucks occupying much of the road as the most significant stressors.
- Tourist season (July and August)
Expect heavy traffic, long queues along coastal roads, and crowded city centers. Many tourists in rental cars are not familiar with the local terrain, so plan your travel time, expect delays, and allow extra time for parking. Parking spots are often scarce in summer.
- Roadworks and temporary signs
Road repairs and temporary lane changes are frequent. Always watch for signs and reduce your speed.
- Wildlife and livestock
Animals commonly appear on rural and mountain roads, so be ready to brake at any moment.
- Local driving habits
In some areas, drivers tend to overtake on narrow sections and near steep drop-offs. Stay alert, adjust your speed, and avoid taking unnecessary risks even if you are an experienced driver.
- Car rental rules
Many rental agencies require an international driver’s permit and a minimum age of twenty or twenty-one. Young drivers may also be subject to additional fees. Always check the requirements before booking a vehicle.
Traffic rules in Montenegro are generally similar to those in the surrounding region, but the roads can be challenging even for skilled drivers. Follow the signs, respect the speed limits, wear your seat belt, and drive according to the road conditions. Always start your trip well-rested, take regular breaks, and stay fully focused.
Keep in mind that, in addition to financial penalties, police in Montenegro frequently impose temporary license suspensions and, in more serious cases, even jail time. Even if it seems that there is no police presence on steep mountain roads, speed radars and patrols are often positioned in unexpected places.
