Armenia’s Parliament (National Assembly) has approved amendments banning the installation and use of non-standard sound systems in vehicles, including while driving, to prevent loud music from being played in cars and to curb noise pollution in the interest of public safety.
The legislative package, co-authored by MPs Sergey Bagratyan, Alen Simonyan, Hasmik Hakobyan, and Arusyak Julhakyan, passed in its second reading on September 30. It introduces strict penalties for drivers who install or use additional amplifiers, loudspeakers, or other non-standard sound and lighting devices in their cars.
Under the revised Article 1231 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, violators will face a fine equal to ten times the minimum monthly salary, along with the confiscation of the devices and the application of two penalty points on the 13-point system. Exceptions are made only for anti-theft alarm systems and loudspeakers used during assemblies or public events.
MP Sergey Bagratyan also presented the penalties, stating: “Installing or using non-standard light or sound signal devices, mufflers, players, additional amplifiers, or loudspeakers in vehicles during operation will result in a fine equal to ten times the minimum monthly wage. The law also includes the confiscation of such devices and the application of two penalty points.”
Presenting the initiative, Bagratyan noted that cars playing loud music have become widespread in Armenia, creating what he described as a “moral, psychological, and physical impact” on citizens. “Loud music contributes to increased noise pollution,” he said, stressing the importance of the ban.
Andranik Kocharyan, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Defense and Security, warned drivers to take the new rules seriously. “Be prudent. Remember that from now on, playing loud music while driving will be strictly punished,” he stated.
The measure is part of broader amendments to the Law on Road Safety and the Code of Administrative Offenses aimed at improving public order and reducing harmful noise levels in Armenian cities.
