Italy
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
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Driving under the influence of drugs is prohibited in Italy, with THC (cannabis), methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy) expressly listed as forbidden substances.
Prosecution, license sanctions, and possible arrest for drug-impaired driving.
§ EUMedications
Foreigners may bring up to a 30-day supply of personal prescription medication into Italy and should carry a copy of the prescription; you cannot bring drugs for other people, and shipments by mail/courier are tightly controlled.
Excess or mailed medication can be held by Italian Customs with long delays.
§ US State DeptCustoms & Cash
Tourists can be fined or detained for buying counterfeit goods (usually fashion accessories) in Italy.
On-the-spot fines or detention; goods may be seized.
§ US State DeptItaly applies a EUR 10,000 (or equivalent) cash limit on both entry and exit, above which a declaration is required.
Undeclared cash may be detained and you may face penalties.
§ US State DeptDriving
Many Italian historic city centers are limited-traffic zones (ZTL) requiring a permit; cameras photograph plates of cars driving illegally and mail fines to the driver's US home.
Fines are sent to your US address for payment; contest via the Prefetto or Giudice di Pace.
§ US State DeptItaly's blood-alcohol limit is 0.5 g/L (0.05%) for standard drivers and 0.0 for professional drivers and novice drivers.
Exceeding the limit brings heavy fines, license suspension, and possible arrest.
§ EU