The bicycle is a practical and widely used means of transportation in everyday life, but when the rules are not respected, it can cause accidents. In recent years, the number of accidents involving bicycles has increased.
Therefore, starting April 1, 2026, the system called “Traffic Violation Notification System” (known as “blue fine” or 青切符) — which was already applied to cars and other vehicles — will also be applied to bicycles.
What is the “Traffic Violation Notification System” (青切符)?
It is a system created to simplify the procedure when a traffic violation occurs.
If the person who committed the violation pays the fine within the specified period, the case will be closed without the need for a trial in criminal court or family court. The document issued in this case is called a traffic violation notice, popularly known as a “blue ticket” (青切符).
Age from which it applies
16 years or older
Types of violations included
More than 110 types of violations are now applied to bicycles, including for example:
- Running a red light
- Not stopping at a stop sign
- Using a smartphone or cell phone while cycling
- Entering a railway crossing when the gate is closed
- Among other violations
Amount of fines
Depending on the violation, the fine will be between 3,000yen and 12,000yen, similar amounts to those applied to mopeds.
Examples of traffic violations and fines:
- Using a cell phone while cycling: 12,000 yen
- Entering a railway crossing with a barrier: 7,000 yen
- Running a red light: 6,000 yen
- Cycling in a prohibited area (against traffic or improperly on the sidewalk): 6,000 yen
- Failing to stop at a stop sign: 5,000 yen
- Two people riding on the same bicycle: 3,000 yen
Information leaflet available (in Japanese).
To avoid accidents and dangerous situations, always respect traffic rules when cycling.
