What are the penalties for driving restricted vehicles on the road?
2 Answers
Driving restricted vehicles on the road will result in 3 demerit points and a fine. Vehicles driving within restricted zones on restricted days constitute a violation of no-entry signs. Penalty regulations for restricted vehicle violations vary by region and are not standardized nationwide. Vehicles entering within the Fifth Ring Road during restricted hours will be fined, and vehicles that fail to return according to the prescribed route and time after the first penalty may be penalized again. For example, Beijing traffic police regulations stipulate that vehicles without a Beijing entry permit will have their restricted area expanded to the Sixth Ring Road, with 3 demerit points for violations. For vehicles that unintentionally drive out, drivers can move their vehicles out of the restricted zone within 3 hours after receiving the first penalty.
I've been driving for years and seen many people confused by traffic restriction penalties. Basically, if caught, you'll be fined 200 yuan and might get some penalty points deducted. For example, in Beijing, whether caught by automatic cameras or stopped by traffic police, it's a 200-yuan fine plus 3 penalty points. The fine isn't huge, but accumulating too many points means you'll have to retake driving tests, which is a hassle. I've developed the habit of memorizing license plate ending numbers: Monday restricts numbers ending with 1 and 6, Tuesday 2 and 7, and so on. Alternatively, I use Gaode Map to set reminders—it gives real-time warnings. Don't even think about dodging it; downtown areas are packed with cameras. Getting caught can also affect your insurance rates. Overall, these rules aim to reduce congestion and protect the environment. One mistake is a small lesson, but compliance makes life easier for everyone.
