Visitors to Bulgaria may drive using their national licence as long as it complies with international standards. The standard credit card type EU driving licence with photo identity is recognised but with licences from other countries it is advisable to carry an international licence as well. EU citizens who are long-term or permanently resident in Bulgaria are not required to take a driving test or hold a Bulgarian licence, although non-EU nationals will usually need to do so. This should be checked with the local police in the town or city of residence.
Fuel in Bulgaria is lead free and available at 98, 95 and 92 octane levels. Diesel fuel is also widely available through the country, together with LPG and there are petrol service stations along all major routes. Road signs follow international standards and are often written in English as well as Bulgarian. All drivers should be aware that roads are not maintained to the same standards as in other European countries and, as a result, potholes and uneven surface conditions are common. Under Bulgarian law seat belts must be worn by all passengers, mobile phones can only be used with hands-free sets and headlights are required at all times between 1st November and 31st March. Speed limits for cars are 50 km/h (30mph) inside city. town and village limits, 90 km/h (55mph) outside built-up areas and 120 km/h (75mph) on motorways. Roadside speed cameras are in place and police patrols operate on all main roads and some minor roads. Depending upon the circumstances of any particular situation, traffic police are empowered to levy on the spot fines of up to 50 Lev (€25 / £22) for which a receipt will be given, or issue a ticket for any offence, or confiscate an offending driver's licence. The sensible approach is to be aware of traffic rules and to drive carefully.
Obligatory insurance (similar to 3rd party) is required, while comprehensive insurance is optional. Road tax is based on engine size and vehicle age and is levied by the Obshtina (local authority) of the town or city where the vehicle is registered. In addition, all vehicles driving on public roads are required to display a Vignette window sticker costing 67 Lev (€34 / £30) a year. All vehicles over three years old must undergo an annual roadworthiness test (similar to MOT)
Fuel in Bulgaria is lead free and available at 98, 95 and 92 octane levels. Diesel fuel is also widely available through the country, together with LPG and there are petrol service stations along all major routes. Road signs follow international standards and are often written in English as well as Bulgarian. All drivers should be aware that roads are not maintained to the same standards as in other European countries and, as a result, potholes and uneven surface conditions are common. Under Bulgarian law seat belts must be worn by all passengers, mobile phones can only be used with hands-free sets and headlights are required at all times between 1st November and 31st March. Speed limits for cars are 50 km/h (30mph) inside city. town and village limits, 90 km/h (55mph) outside built-up areas and 120 km/h (75mph) on motorways. Roadside speed cameras are in place and police patrols operate on all main roads and some minor roads. Depending upon the circumstances of any particular situation, traffic police are empowered to levy on the spot fines of up to 50 Lev (€25 / £22) for which a receipt will be given, or issue a ticket for any offence, or confiscate an offending driver's licence. The sensible approach is to be aware of traffic rules and to drive carefully.
Obligatory insurance (similar to 3rd party) is required, while comprehensive insurance is optional. Road tax is based on engine size and vehicle age and is levied by the Obshtina (local authority) of the town or city where the vehicle is registered. In addition, all vehicles driving on public roads are required to display a Vignette window sticker costing 67 Lev (€34 / £30) a year. All vehicles over three years old must undergo an annual roadworthiness test (similar to MOT)
For advice, assistance and information about Moving to Bulgaria, we recommend that you visit our website at MovetoBG.com - and for accommodation options, resources and services, we suggest Bulgaria Gateway
1 comment:
Useful info - particularly about not needing to take a BG test
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