Cyprus Police Sound the Alarm Over Underage Motorcyclists

Cyprus Police are concerned about minors riding motorcycles on public roads. According to Traffic Police Director Haris Evripidou, officers stopped more than 10–15 motorcycles ridden by children ages 13–14 over the past weekend alone. Police seized motorcycles that were being used illegally. In some cases, it was found that:

1. the rider did not have a driver’s license;
2. the motorcycle did not meet the requirements for road use;
3. the minor was not legally permitted to operate the vehicle.

Police are continuing their checks. For example, on September 29, 2026, a special operation was carried out in the Polis Chrysochous area targeting minors driving vehicles without the required documents. In addition, during a nationwide police operation on October 5, 2026, officers issued 99 citations for failure to wear a protective helmet. Another 305 violations were also recorded, including 9 cases of driving without a license.

Parents may also be held responsible

Evripidou also addressed parents directly. He noted that if a child is riding a motorcycle near home, adults need to understand that a basic question arises: who gave the child the motorcycle and allowed them to use it? In such cases, police investigate:

1. who purchased the motorcycle;
2. who owns it;
3. who allowed the child to ride it;
4. where and under what circumstances the minor gained access to the vehicle.

Depending on the circumstances, criminal proceedings may be initiated. Evripidou urged parents to take the issue extremely seriously. He said the matter is not just about fines or the seizure of a motorcycle. The most important issue is the child’s safety. If a minor is involved in a serious accident, the consequences could be far more severe than any fine.

Rules for learner motorcyclists have changed in Cyprus

The issue is particularly important following recent rule changes. Since July 1, 2026, Cyprus has changed the conditions for operating motorcycles with a learner’s permit. A motorcycle may now be used on a road or in a public place with a learner’s permit only in certain situations:

1. during training with a licensed instructor;
2. during a driving test;
3. during special training activities for the police, fire service or National Guard.

Protective equipment must also be used. Since July 1, learner’s permits for all vehicle categories are valid for 2 years. Police stress that child safety begins with parents. It is not acceptable to simply buy a child a motorcycle and allow them to ride on public streets. Cyprus Police will continue carrying out checks and issuing citations, but officers emphasize that prevention must begin at home.

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