The Algerian authorities have announced strict measures to combat the use of fake or non-compliant license plates. The Gendarmerie nationale has warned that individuals found guilty of using such plates will face severe penalties, including up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to 500,000 Algerian Dinar (DA). This move aims to enhance road safety and prevent vehicle-related crimes.
According to the new Road Code, adopted by law n° 26-09 on May 12, 2026, and published in the Official Journal n° 36, the use of fake or non-compliant license plates is considered a serious offense. The code distinguishes between two situations: using a vehicle with a fake license plate, which carries a penalty of 3 to 5 years in prison and a fine of 300,000 to 500,000 DA; and using a plate with incorrect information, which carries a penalty of 3 months to 2 years in prison and a fine of 50,000 to 200,000 DA.
The Gendarmerie nationale has specifically highlighted the issue of license plates with provisional or foreign numbers that do not match the vehicle's registration. Plates with numbers such as "16-00" or foreign registrations that do not correspond to the vehicle's actual registration are considered non-compliant. The authorities stress that provisional plates are not inherently banned but must be used in accordance with regulations and only for vehicles authorized to circulate temporarily.
In addition to the penalties, the authorities have emphasized the importance of adhering to technical regulations for license plates. The plates must meet specific requirements regarding dimensions, character placement, visibility, and attachment to the vehicle. Any modifications that make the plate illegible or obscure the number are strictly prohibited.
The new Road Code also introduces the use of automated devices, such as radars and cameras, to detect and record offenses. This move is part of a broader effort to improve road safety and enforce traffic regulations. The authorities have urged vehicle owners to ensure their license plates comply with the regulations to avoid facing penalties.
The crackdown on fake license plates is part of a larger initiative to combat vehicle-related crimes and enhance road safety in Algeria. The Gendarmerie nationale has previously alerted the public to the issue of non-compliant plates and has now reiterated its commitment to enforcing the regulations. Vehicle owners are advised to verify their license plates' compliance to avoid penalties.
The authorities have warned that in cases of recidivism, the penalties will be doubled, and the vehicle may be confiscated. The tribunal may also order the confiscation of equipment used to commit the offense. The public is encouraged to report any instances of non-compliant license plates to the authorities.
Key points
- Up to 5 years in prison and 500,000 DA fine for using fake license plates.
- Confiscation of vehicle and equipment used for offense in case of recidivism.
- Use of automated devices to detect and record offenses.
