Kurdistan Region issues motorcycle safety rules, urging compliance by riders

ERBIL – The Kurdistan Region’s General Directorate of Traffic has issued new safety guidelines for motorcyclists, warning that violations will result in penalties.

The rules require all riders to hold a valid driver’s license, available from age 16, and for motorcycles to be officially registered. Helmets of high quality are mandatory for both riders and passengers, along with other protective gear such as gloves, knee and elbow guards, specialized footwear, and appropriate clothing.

Motorcyclists must obey all traffic rules, including signals and speed limits, and are prohibited from using mobile phones while driving. Loud exhausts are banned, and the use of turn signals is compulsory. Drivers are also required to slow down near schools during the academic year to protect students, and exercise caution in bad weather due to the difficulty of controlling motorcycles.

The directorate emphasized the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and urged riders to use reflective or brightly colored clothing at night to ensure visibility. Passengers must also wear helmets and be instructed on safe riding practices.

Traffic officials said the measures are aimed at reducing risks on the road and protecting lives, noting that motorcyclists are frequently among the victims of traffic accidents in the region.