From January 1, 2026, over 60 new road signs and information plates will be introduced in Russia under updated GOST standards. We explain the key innovations: scooters, eco-zones, new stop lines, paid parking signs, and pedestrian safety.
Starting in 2026, the updated national standard for traffic organization will be implemented on the roads of Russia. This standard introduces more than 60 new road signs and information plates designed to adapt traffic regulations to modern realities: the emergence of personal mobility devices (electric scooters, etc.), enhancing pedestrian safety, considering environmental requirements, and optimizing traffic in complex urban conditions. Many of these innovations have already been tested in Moscow and proven effective. Below, we discuss the key changes and clarify what they mean for drivers.
Reasons and Goals for Updating the Standard
The large-scale update of road signs is part of the new GOST R 52290-2024, which introduces a more modern and detailed navigation system. In recent years, new types of road users—ranging from electric scooters to monowheels—have emerged, creating a need for more precise regulations regarding their presence. The goal of the reform is to make traffic infrastructure clear and safe for all participants: motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and users of personal mobility devices. Environmental protection tasks and the effective use of urban space are also taken into account. The new standard has been developed over the past three years with the involvement of specialists from the Moscow Center for Traffic Organization to consider best practices and the specifics of Russian roads.
Signs for Scooters and New Types of Transport
One of the important innovations is the introduction of specific signs aimed at personal mobility devices (PMDs), which include electric scooters, hoverboards, monowheels, and similar transport. Previously, the movement of such devices was governed only by general rules, but starting in 2026, special designations will be introduced. For example, signs may be posted prohibiting electric scooters from certain areas (pedestrian streets, parks) or, conversely, allowing PMDs to operate in designated lanes. These signs integrate scooter users into the overall traffic system and establish clear boundaries regarding where electric transport can go and where they must dismount. As a result, the safety of both PMD users and surrounding pedestrians and motorists will improve.
Environmental Aspects of Traffic
The updated standard also considers the environmental factor. In the pursuit of clean air in urban streets, signs related to limiting harmful emissions will be introduced. For instance, "eco-zone" signs may be established, allowing entry only to environmentally friendly vehicles—such as electric cars or those with a high environmental class. Such signs will be placed at the entrances to areas that require special environmental protection to reduce air pollution levels. Additionally, new pictograms may inform drivers about the availability of nearby charging stations for electric vehicles or other environmentally significant locations. Integrating ecology into road sign systems aims to encourage greener habits on the road and make cities more accommodating for eco-friendly transport.
Pedestrian Safety: "Deaf Pedestrians" Sign
Significant attention has been paid to protecting the most vulnerable road users—pedestrians. Starting in 2026, a new warning sign will be introduced to enhance safety for individuals with hearing disabilities. This specific sign, "Deaf Pedestrians," will be installed before pedestrian crossings near places frequented by hearing-impaired individuals (such as schools for the deaf or specialized medical centers). This sign alerts drivers that some pedestrians may not hear an approaching vehicle or horn, thus requiring extra caution. Previously, a similar sign, "Blind Pedestrians," existed to warn about visually impaired passersby; now, an equivalent for the hearing impaired has been added. This measure will make the road environment more inclusive and emphasize drivers' responsibility for attentive behavior in crowded areas with individuals with special needs.
Solutions for Complex Urban Conditions
In intense urban conditions, the new standards aim to improve traffic organization and driver convenience. Key changes include:
- Vertical "Stop Line" Sign: This will be introduced where traditional horizontal markings cannot be applied. This sign is a plate with the word "STOP" displayed vertically, indicating where to stop before a traffic light or intersection. Now, even in the absence of markings, drivers will clearly understand where to halt, which is especially crucial at complex intersections.
- Sign 6.2.1 "Recommended Speed over Bumps": This new informational sign will advise on a safe speed when passing over a "speed bump" (artificial roughness). It will be installed before the obstacle, indicating the maximum speed recommended for crossing it (for instance, 20 km/h). This novelty will help drivers reduce wear on their vehicles and enhance passenger comfort by slowing down in advance before encountering bumps.
- New Parking Standards: The dimensions of parking spaces are being revised. The width of a parking space along the roadway will decrease from 2.5 meters to 2.25 meters. This change allows cities to utilize street space more effectively—more cars can fit in the same area. Although parking will become slightly tighter, the overall number of available spots may increase, which is relevant for congested city centers.
Updated Pictograms and Information Plates
In addition to entirely new signs, an expansion of several familiar indicators with additional symbols is being prepared. This primarily concerns the "Paid Parking" sign. New pictograms explaining payment methods will be added to the existing parking sign: for example, a special icon for app payments, another for SMS payments, and so on. These graphic elements will be displayed alongside the parking sign, ensuring drivers immediately see the available payment method for that particular parking area. This innovation will make information more visual and reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings or violations regarding payment rules. Similarly, other clarifying plates may appear— all aimed at providing comprehensive information directly on the road sign, without overloading drivers with excessive text.
Pilot Testing and Nationwide Implementation
Many of the mentioned innovations have already undergone testing in real conditions. In Moscow, experimental use of some new signs began long before the official introduction—pilot projects operated under the local standard to assess the effectiveness of the innovations. Successful testing results allowed these solutions to be included in the federal GOST and expanded them for use throughout Russia. From January 1, 2026, the new requirements will be mandatory across all regions: road agencies will install the updated signs in cities and on highways, gradually replacing or supplementing the old navigation.
What the Changes Mean for Drivers
The introduction of over 60 new signs and symbols constitutes a significant change in regulations; hence, all road participants must prepare themselves. Drivers of cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and users of electric scooters are advised to familiarize themselves with the new designations in advance to confidently navigate the roads from day one. This is particularly relevant for those who frequently travel through cities: new signs may appear on familiar routes, requiring adjustments to speed or behavior.
Here are some tips for meeting the changes prepared:
- Study Official Materials: Familiarize yourself with the updated Traffic Rules or GIBDD instructional materials, which list and describe all new signs. Early study will help avoid confusion in real situations.
- Be Attentive on the Road: In the first weeks of January 2026, pay special attention to the installation of new signs along your routes. If you see an unfamiliar symbol, reduce speed and act cautiously, relying on its presumed meaning (which is typically intuitive) or navigation prompts.
- Consider New Rules for PMDs: If you use an electric scooter or other personal devices, learn where you can ride according to the new restrictions. The emergence of special signs for PMDs means ignoring these indicators may lead to fines or dangerous situations.
The upcoming reform of road signs is a step towards a modern and safe transport system. The new indicators will enhance road informativeness, considering today's realities: from mobile apps and electric scooters to eco-zones. For drivers and pedestrians, this means clearer rules of the road. The key is to carefully review the changes and adhere to the requirements of the new signs: this way, the transition to updated standards will be smooth and beneficial for all road participants.
