More and more Romanians choose Bulgaria as a holiday destination due to the short car, beautiful landscapes and affordable prices. If you intend to go with your personal car or rent one, it is essential to know the road rules in this country to avoid stinging fines or unwanted situations.
The fine in case of deviations, cannot be paid photo cash: shutterstock
In Bulgaria it circulates on the right side, as in Romania. The speed limits are 50 km/h in localities, 90 km/h outside the cities, 120 km/h on highways, 140 km/h on express roads. Near the cities there are frequent radars or police patrols.
Fines to overcome speed
In cities:
+10 km/h: 20 BGN (approx. 10 €)
+11–20 km/h: 50 BGN (25 €)
+21–30 km/h: 100 BGN (€ 51)
+31–40 km/h: 400 BGN (€ 204)
+41–50 km/h: 600 BGN (€ 307)
Over +50 km/h: 700 BGN (€ 357) + permit suspension
Outside the cities, the fines start from 300 BGN for over 30 km/h. For repeated overtaking, the fines double and the permit can be suspended.
Important obligations and rules
The vignette is mandatory. Most rental machines have electronic vignette, but check BGTol.bg.
– Lack of Vignette: fine of 300 BGN (€ 153)
– Belt is mandatory for all passengers: 50 BGN fine (€ 25)
– Children should be transported in special chairs, depending on age and height: 50 BGN fine
– The daylights or the short phase must be permanently lit: 20 BGN fine
– Using phone without hands-free is sanctioned with 50 BGN
– non -granting pedestrian priority: 100 BGN (€ 204) and suspension of the permit to recurrence
Sanctions for driving under the influence of alcohol
0.5 ‰ – 0.8 ‰: 500 BGN + suspension 6 months
0.8 ‰ – 1.2 ‰: 1,000 BGN + suspension 12 months
The repetition of the deed leads to more serious sanctions.
Parking in Bulgaria
In cities there are blue areas and green areas, with different taxes:
– Payment can be made by SMS (with local card), parkometer or supervisor
– In uninsured areas: standard 2 -lev/hour tariff (~ 1 €)
– illegal parking can lead to lifting the car or blocking the wheels
– In Varna, some parking is not clearly signaled.
Studies local rules before leaving. In big cities, such as Sofia, take into account to use public transport. All traffic rules can be consulted on the website of the European Union.
Police can stop drivers to verify documents. Don’t pay the cash fine! Payment is made only through the official channels indicated in the minutes. The bribe is severely sanctioned.
