Romanian driver loses license for 60 days over wrong parking spot in Greece

A Romanian tourist on vacation in Halkidiki, Greece, faces a 60-day driving license suspension after inadvertently parking in a space reserved for individuals with disabilities. The driver acknowledged his mistake, paid the 150-euro fine, but was informed by Greek authorities that his license would be confiscated for the duration of the penalty.

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I came on vacation to Halkidiki and went through a rather unpleasant situation in Nea Moudania. By mistake, I parked in a spot for people with disabilities. I paid the 150 euro fine, which is normal and we take responsibility for the mistake. However, the police also confiscated our driving license for 60 days and did not want to return it after paying the fine.

Sharing his experience on a forum for Greece travelers, the Romanian recounted the incident in Nea Moudania. He stated that while he accepted the fine and the responsibility for his error, the retention of his license came as an additional, unexpected penalty. He later learned that Greek legislation mandates a 60-day license suspension for unauthorized use of disabled parking spots, in addition to a fine.

The driver has turned to the online community for advice, inquiring about the possibility of retrieving his license earlier or lodging an appeal. He is also seeking clarification on whether the suspension applies internationally, specifically if he can legally drive in Romania during this period. His post has garnered numerous responses from other Romanians, some residing in Greece or having faced similar situations.

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As far as I found out, in Greece this is the penalty provided for occupying a parking space intended for people with disabilities. Has anyone else been through such a situation? Is there any possibility to get the license back sooner or to make an appeal? And another question: if the license is confiscated in Greece, can we still drive legally in Romania during this period or does the suspension apply everywhere?

Several users confirmed the strictness of Greek parking regulations and the standard penalty. One suggestion offered was to file a formal request or statement with the police where the license was confiscated, potentially explaining his departure for Romania, which might allow for earlier retrieval after paying the fine. Others advised consulting Romanian traffic police or a legal expert for definitive guidance on driving eligibility in his home country.

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This is how it is. If you go to the police where your license was taken, you make an appeal or a declaration that you are leaving for Romania, you have a chance to get your license back after paying the 150 euro fine. There have been cases here in Greece this season and they were lucky.