New GOST Standards for Alcohol Interlocks: Russia to Strengthen Drunk Driving Control

Rosstandart has approved new GOST standards for driver condition monitoring systems, known as alcohol interlocks. They will come into force on May 1, 2026, and will ensure the reliability of devices that prevent drunk driving, as well as create transparent conditions for assessing their compliance.

As a reminder, GOST R 70637–2023 has been in effect in the country since 2023 — it requires alcohol interlocks to detect ethanol vapors in exhaled air, block the engine if the permissible level is exceeded, and transmit data via ERA-GLONASS.

This standard applies to vehicles for commercial transportation of passengers and transportation of dangerous goods.

Now, two new documents have been approved. GOST R 72377–2026 defines uniform test methods for the system — it checks all operating modes, engine blocking algorithms, and data transmission reliability even in an unstable network.

GOST R 72378–2026 evaluates the ethanol vapor indicator and its operating characteristics, which are necessary for accurate monitoring of the driver's condition.

Presumably, the new standards will improve road safety and reduce the risk of accidents involving drunk drivers. At the same time, manufacturers will receive uniform assessment criteria, which will facilitate the development and certification of alcohol interlocks.

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