TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications has proposed new road safety regulations aimed at closing loopholes that allow certain drivers to continue operating vehicles despite license suspensions or bans, with the measures expected to take effect early next year, per CNA.
Under draft amendments previewed by the ministry, drivers who have had their licenses revoked, canceled, or suspended, or who are barred from obtaining a license for a fixed period or for life, would no longer be allowed to use driver’s licenses issued by other countries or regions. They would also be prohibited from converting foreign licenses into Taiwanese ones.
The proposed changes are intended to prevent repeat offenders and high-risk drivers from circumventing penalties by relying on overseas licenses, the ministry said.
Another provision in the draft amendments would require pedestrians to immediately yield to emergency vehicles, including fire trucks, ambulances, and police vehicles, and to refrain from obstructing their path. Violators could face fines of NT$500 (US$16).
Hu Ti-chi (胡迪琦), director-general of the MOTC’s Department of Public Transportation and Supervision, said the ministry aims to implement the new regulations in the first quarter of next year. The earliest possible rollout could come by late January or early February, he added.
The MOTC also said road safety amendments passed in October will increase penalties for unlicensed driving. Fines for unlicensed motorcyclists were raised from NT$18,000 to NT$36,000, while unlicensed car drivers now face fines ranging from NT$36,000 to NT$60,000. Police would also be required to impound vehicles on the spot.
Additional measures already approved and awaiting implementation in the new year include tougher requirements for repeat drunk driving offenders. The number of mandatory training hours for such offenders would increase from 12 to 15 hours, while the maximum duration of driving safety courses would be extended from two days to three days.
The ministry said the package of amendments reflects the government’s continued push to strengthen road safety, deter dangerous behavior, and reduce traffic-related injuries and deaths.
