Over 19,000 unlicensed drivers caught in Greece

Greek traffic police recorded more than 19,000 violations involving drivers without a valid license during the first five months of 2026, according to data cited by Kathimerini.

Authorities registered 19,060 cases nationwide between January and May, slightly below the 19,211 recorded during the same period in 2025. However, violations increased significantly in the Attica region, where police reported 9,180 cases compared with 6,861 a year earlier.

Experts attribute the problem to a combination of youth recklessness, disregard for traffic regulations and intensified police checks. Some young drivers operate vehicles without ever obtaining a license, while others continue driving despite having their licenses revoked.

According to traffic safety specialists, stricter enforcement and tougher penalties under Greece’s revised Highway Code have contributed to bringing more violations to light.

Under current legislation, drivers caught operating a vehicle without a valid license face a €700 fine, a one-year suspension of any existing license and the removal of vehicle license plates for 30 days. Those driving after a license revocation can face up to one year in prison and fines starting at €2,000.

Source: Kathimerini