Lithuanian authorities are addressing a significant number of drivers—around 70,000—who have failed to renew their medical certificates, a requirement now mandated by new legislation that took effect at the start of the year.
While the police have decided against carrying out large-scale “raids” to track down those non-compliant drivers, they are urging them to take responsibility and comply with the regulations.
As of January 1, the new law makes it compulsory for drivers to have a valid medical certificate in order to continue driving. The frequency of renewals is based on age: drivers under 65 must renew their certificates every 10 years, those aged 66-79 must do so every 5 years, and drivers over 80 need to renew their certificates every 2 years.
Approximately 70,000 drivers have yet to meet this requirement. The police have made it clear that they will not conduct specific checks to find these violations but will check the medical certificates of drivers if they are caught speeding.
A system of fines will be gradually introduced, starting with a minimum fine of 15 euros for expired certificates, matching the fine for an expired driver’s license. Subsequent violations could incur fines between 30 and 50 euros.
“Poor vision, chronic illnesses, and other issues can significantly affect road safety. Therefore, although the police do not plan to stop drivers specifically to check medical certificates, we urge everyone to take responsibility and undergo the examination on time for the safety of themselves and others,” the police said.
Last year, about 84% of drivers who needed to renew their certificates did so, with the largest number of renewals taking place in December, just before the new rules came into effect.
