Italy's cabinet approves road code changes, but rules are not yet in force

Italy's cabinet has given initial approval to changes to the road code after consultations with more than 100 groups and associations.

The proposals include lower amounts for some common fines, while the government says dangerous behaviour will face zero tolerance.

For speeding, fines would generally be based on how far a driver exceeds the limit, rather than broad penalty bands.

Drivers would no longer have to carry physical copies of their licence and vehicle registration, as police could check the details digitally.

The changes also raise the age limit for professional truck and bus drivers from 68 to 70, with checks every two years.

They are intended to revise penalties and make checks and notifications more digital, but consumer group Codacons says better enforcement is needed for road safety.

The rules are not yet in force and must complete the legal process; one report says they are likely to take effect in 2027.