Are there any special requirements for driving or hiring a car in Bulgaria?
Driving in Bulgaria is on the right with overtaking on the left. You may not turn right on a red light. In Bulgaria signs are shown in Latin with the Cyrillic alphabet so it is good to have an understanding of the language. There are various dangers to watch out for when driving in Bulgaria. The roads are generally in poor condition, and lanes often do not have markings. You are advised to drive defensively as driving standards and etiquette may not be what you are used to.
Particularly bad is the cross border road between the capital Sofia and Greece. Expect long delays. Ongoing road works make drivers even more impatient. There are also a number of heavy goods vehicles to watch out for. Driving in the countryside is beautiful but the roads are unpredictable. There can be potholes in certain areas and there is a risk of landslides. Watch out for animals in the road, especially when the harvest is taking place. Parts of Bulgaria can experience severe winter weather conditions so ask our rental staff about fitting winter tyres and snow chains to your vehicle.
The police in Bulgaria generally do not bother tourists, but there have been some reports of fines for imagined offences. Do not pull over for anyone unless they have a white patrol car with
POLICE marked across it in blue letters. There have been reports of criminals pretending to be law officers. It is not a legal requirement to pull over if you are in doubt as to the authenticity police. Do not try to bribe police officers, whilst it is considered not uncommon for locals, it is very unwise to suggest doing so as could lead to severe punishment beyond the initial offence.
Customer update: (22/11/2021)
The Built up area / urban speed limits vary now for even villages and can be between 30kph to 50kph also there are many junctions where the limit reduces to 60kph. All of these limits are well signed although some signs can be obscured by trees / bushes etc. The police have mobile speed cameras and these can be on a small tripod by the roadside or inside the police car.