North Korea tightens control over vehicle use, expands road traffic law

North Korea has recently tightened its control over vehicle use and expanded the Road Traffic Law in May 2025. The revisions expanded the number of articles from 103 to 124 across eight chapters to more closely monitor citizen mobility and restrict commercial vehicle operations. Drivers face penalties, including impounding their vehicles for up to two months if they use them to earn money.

Government-owned vehicles used for commercial purposes without authorization may be completely confiscated and removed from official records. Officials facilitating these arrangements can receive unpaid labor sentences of up to three months. The crackdown targets citizens using vehicles as informal taxis or transportation services to supplement their incomes.

Drivers transporting passengers without valid travel permits or business authorization letters will also face vehicle impoundment, with repeat violations resulting in driver's license revocation. The revised law specifies processing timelines, confiscation periods, and administrative procedures, turning it from a largely declarative policy to a substantive, enforceable law.

The changes reflect North Korea's efforts to centralize authority over economic activities and modernize its transportation infrastructure. The new rules address emerging transportation technologies, including electric bicycles, and include separate controls for Pyongyang, such as confiscation of right-hand drive vehicles and restrictions on high-emission trucks.

Fine payment procedures have been modernized using electronic systems, with individual penalties ranging from 5,000 to 150,000 North Korean won.