Motorcycle couriering in Türkiye is now recognised as a hazardous occupation following sustained advocacy by the Touring and Automobile Club of Türkiye (TTOK) through the FIA Road Safety Grants Programme, supported by the FIA Foundation.

Until recently, motorcycle couriers were excluded from the 204 occupational groups requiring mandatory certification by the Vocational Qualifications Authority (MYK), meaning thousands of riders could work without formal training or legal safeguards. Motorcycle couriering is now officially recognised as a hazardous occupation, a significant milestone for protecting couriers from unsafe conditions and will lead to the introduction of new regulations designed to protect them at work.

Turkish commercial bike numbers tripled between 2020 and 2023, contributing to a 17% increase in motorcycle courier deaths. There are now more than 200,000 motorcycle couriers in Istanbul alone.

TTOK’s project, ‘Empowering Moto Couriers: Free Training, Equipment, and Mandatory Professional Certification Initiative’, aimed to address the issue by supporting riders and working alongside the Motorcycle Couriers Association and the Courier Rights Association to lobby for change with the Vocational Qualifications Authority (MYK). The auto club’s project activities reached over 26,000 riders, providing free training and protective equipment. 

The transition to ‘hazardous occupation’ status brings necessary legal regulations into force, including mandatory courier certification. TTOK's work has led to significant amendments to the Road Transport Regulation by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure. These amendments include a clear definition of the term ‘courier business’, the creation of special authorisation certificates based on operational scope, certification for individuals, and updated vehicle and equipment standards, including mandatory reflective vests and helmets. The regulations also enforce the removal of delivery time commitments to reduce time pressure on couriers.

With successful advocacy for new legislation and by providing crucial training, TTOK has achieved a significant step towards ensuring the future safety of Türkiye’s motorcycle couriers. 

Speaking on behalf of TTOK, Murselin Erik, ‘Empowering Moto Couriers: Free Training, Equipment, and Mandatory Professional Certification Initiative’ Project Lead, said: "We have spent years working together to improve safety and recognition for motorcycle couriers in Türkiye. With the support of the FIA Foundation, TTOK has trained and equipped thousands of riders, developed national occupational standards, and advocated for stronger protections for riders. The recognition of couriering as a hazardous occupation marks a proud milestone in this journey, ensuring couriers can work with the professionalism, safety, and respect they deserve."