ROME, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Drivers caught smoking at the wheel of a vehicle in the tiny landlocked republic of San Marino now risk a minimum fine of 100 euros (157 U.S. dollars), the Italian News Agency ANSA said on Wednesday.

    The republic's new road code, which went into effect on Tuesday, also calls for fines ranging from 100 euros to 250 euros (392 dollars) for illegal parking, driving without seatbelts and using earphones.

    The new code establishes three fine categories: the first from 100 euros to 250 euros, the second from 200 euros (314 dollars) to500 euros (785 dollars), and the third from 400 euros (628 dollars) to 750 euros (1,177 dollars).

    Fines are doubled for repeat offenders within a two-year period.

    Drivers in San Marino will have their licenses suspended for up to four months for breaking the speed limit by more than 40 km per hour, and for a minimum of six months for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

    San Marino, an enclave in the Apennine Mountains, has the smallest population in Europe. Founded in 301 AD, it claims to be the world's oldest republic with its constitution dating back to the year 1600, the oldest in the world still in effect.