21.02.2026 17:12
With the new regulation adopted by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, penalties for pirate transportation have been significantly increased. A fine of 100,000 lira will be imposed for unauthorized passenger transport activities known to the public as 'pirate taxis.' If the same violation is repeated within a year, the penalty will be doubled. Additionally, the driver's license will be temporarily confiscated.
Changes made to the Highway Traffic Law have passed through the Parliament and become law. The regulation prepared to combat illegal transportation, which has been a topic of discussion for a long time, especially in metropolitan areas, imposes heavy fines and license penalties on both drivers and vehicle owners.
NEW PENALTY PERIOD IN TRAFFIC
According to the new rules:
Those carrying passengers without a work permit from the municipality will face an administrative fine of 100,000 TL.
Those engaged in transportation outside the activity area specified in the license (for example, those operating taxi services with a shuttle vehicle) will pay a fine of 46,000 TL.
Those using their vehicles for purposes other than those specified in the registration document, as well as vehicle owners who allow this, will be fined 20,000 TL.
TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE
The regulation is not limited to monetary fines. Drivers identified as carrying passengers without permission will have their licenses suspended for 30 days.
If the same offense is repeated within a year, the monetary fine will increase to 200,000 TL. Additionally, drivers will be required to pay all administrative fines to retrieve their confiscated licenses.
"THE STEP TAKEN IS QUITE IMPORTANT"
Mehmet Yiğiner, the President of the Turkish Drivers and Automobile Federation (TŞOF), stated that the regulation will strengthen fair competition in the sector. Yiğiner reminded that tradesmen engaged in legal transportation fulfill their tax and obligations, and pointed out that illegal transportation provides unfair profits.
Yiğiner expressed that they wanted the license suspension period to be longer, yet emphasized that they find the step taken important. He also called on taxi drivers to increase customer satisfaction and stated that they would fight against the "passenger selection" problem, especially in tourist areas.