SECOND HOME TURKEY informs foreign property owners and residents in Kemer about the current regulations regarding the use of vehicles with foreign license plates in Turkey.

According to Turkish Customs Law, vehicles with foreign plates may only be used by:

The spouse of the vehicle owner
The parents of the vehicle owner
The children of the vehicle owner
These persons must reside abroad and comply with the 185-day rule (they must have stayed outside Turkey for at least 185 days within the last year).

Who is NOT allowed to drive?
If the spouse, parents, or children do not meet the 185-day requirement, they are not allowed to use the vehicle.

Except in emergency situations, no third party may drive the vehicle — even if the owner is present inside the car.

Penalties
If a violation is detected:

Both the vehicle owner and the driver are fined separately.
A penalty equal to 25% of the customs duty is imposed under Article 238 of Customs Law No. 4458.
The vehicle must be taken out of Turkey.
Required Documents
Drivers must carry documents proving:

Family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
Residence abroad (passport, foreign residence permit, etc.)
Can the Fine Be Reduced?
Yes.

Within 15 days of notification, an application may be submitted to the customs commission.
The fine may be reduced by 50–70%.
An objection may also be filed within 15 days to the authority that issued the penalty.
The administration responds within 30 days.
If rejected, a lawsuit may be filed with the Tax Court within 30 days.
SECOND HOME TURKEY recommends strict compliance to avoid serious penalties.