Do you need an international driving license in Bulgaria?

Whether your home country's driver's license is in English or not in English, you will still need an International Driver's Permit in Bulgaria. You need to make sure that the IDP type coincides with the Vienna convention on road traffic. 

As a foreign driver for less or more than three months, you will need this as a document to translate your home country's drivers licence if you are planning on driving in the republic of Bulgaria with a rented motor vehicle. Both the car rental company and the local authorities in Bulgaria will be needing these as evidence to support your driver's license validity in the country.

Getting an IDP is easy and you can apply for it via our website. Just complete application form, upload your local driving license, 2 passport sized photos and you will be approved within two hours. You dont need to take any written or driving exam to get it.

How do I get a Bulgarian driving licence if I am not a resident?

If you are a foreigner who plans to stay and drive in this country for less than three months, you don't need a Bulgarian driving license just to drive in the country. However, if you are staying there for more than that, requirements such as a residency permit will be required.

Although if your country is not an EU Member State like Switzerland

What is the best way to get a Bulgarian driving license?

To get a Bulgarian driver's license, you will need to fulfill the following requirements:

• Residency Permit
• Visa
• driving lessons from a recognized driving school
• Pass the driving test
• Your IDP
• Your valid home country driver's license

Most Important Driving Rules In Bulgaria

When driving as a tourist in Bulgaria, it isn't enough to just know the directions and the tourist hotspots; it's essential to be familiar with the Bulgaria driving rules. Obtaining an International Driver's Permit specifically for Bulgaria will make your driving experience hassle-free in this country. Below, we outline the most important Bulgaria driving rules that you must follow to ensure a smooth journey.

Always Bring Your Important Documents

When driving in Bulgaria, remember to carry your essential documents such as your passport or ID card, National Driving Licence issued in your home country and an International Driver’s Permit for Bulgaria for foreign driving, and car insurance for rented cars. An updated International Driving Licence issued for Bulgaria can help resolve language barrier issues between road traffic police.

Note Parking Signs and Fees

In Bulgaria, keep in mind that before parking just about anywhere, check if parking signs say that it’s legal to park in the said location. There are blue zones and green zones which are varying in parking fees. Inform yourself ahead of time about the corresponding parking fees as failure to comply would result in a fine or worse penalty, get your car towed away.

If you incorrectly park your vehicles, a road traffic police will charge you a ticket for incorrect parking. Get the best Bulgarian driving experience through road traffic when you prepare your driving licence, International Driving Permit, and other essential forms of identification.

Don’t Drink and Drive

As with anywhere in the world, don’t drink and drive. Driving while intoxicated poses such a significant threat not only to yourself but to your passengers and other possible victims on the road. In Bulgaria, the legal blood alcohol level is 0.05%. If suspected to be driving while intoxicated, you will be pulled over by the authorities and required to take a breath test. Random breath tests are conducted for visitors to stay sober when driving in Bulgaria to avoid conflicts with the law. Keep in mind that you should always keep first aid kit in your car.

Top Destinations In Bulgaria

With capital Sofia, Bulgaria is beautiful country located in southeastern Europe, and also a part of European Union (EU). Bordered by Romania, Serbia, Greece and Black Sea, it makes perfect country for both summer and winter holidays.

Varna

Varna is a city in Bulgaria that is a port on the Black Sea and home to various tourist spots. From the Sea Garden Park’s marvelous landscape to the Archaeological Museum, which showcases the Gold of Varna, which is the oldest gold in the world. If you wish to gaze upon architectural wonders Bulgaria offers, drive by the Varna Cathedral and the Varna Roman Baths that will surely give you an olden-time feel.

If you’re planning to see the wonders of Varna, then know that the best times to visit are from June to September, where the rainfall is sparse and the climate is pleasant enough for a stroll. August is the month for the highest temperature in Varna, while January is the coldest, so if you’re looking for an ideal time that isn’t sweltering nor freezing, then June to September should do you fine.

Veliko Tărnovo

Veliko Tărnovo has a rich history that matches its fantastic coastline view. This renowned City of the Tsars overlooking the Yantra River was a political, economic, and cultural mecca that garnered the moniker “Third Rome.'' Veliko Tărnovo is decorated with terracotta landscapes and is a perfect picturesque sight. This majestic city was built on Tsarevets, Sveta Gora, and Trapezista, which are all hills. Tourists that come from far and wide gaze upon the cityscape houses show Ottoman influences in its architecture.

The towns in Veliko Tărnovo are idyllic and perfect for a pleasant stroll. Hence, the best times to visit Veliko Tărnovo are June, July, August, and September. There could, however, be slight fluctuations in weather due to rain being abundant in July and September, so it’s best also to stay prepared for such.

Sozopol

Sozopol is Bulgaria’s oldest town tracing its beginnings way back to 610 BC by the Greeks, which made it a famous center for the arts. Nowadays, this ancient city is being visited not just to see Greek influence on architecture, especially Old Town, but also for its luscious beaches and coastlines. Kavatzi and Smokinya are popular beach destinations for those who love a bit of sand and sea, as well as camping sites if you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature on your tour.

The best time to visit this summer place is in May-September when the weather is pleasant and sunny. January is the predicted time for snow, so if you’re looking for a nature adventure or to hang at the beach, it’s best to avoid the month of January.

Bansko

Bansko is known for being a winter wonderland in Bulgaria and a favorite of tourist skiers. This city sits at the foot of the Pirin Mountains and is home to Bansko Ski Resorts at par with other ski resorts across Europe but boasts lower prices. This snowy town is more than just its reputation for being a ski paradise. Bansko holds jazz festivals and has a booming nightlife perfect for anyone looking for some music and fun.

The ideal time to visit Bansko is during the winter season. You can experience skiing and snowboarding, which Bansko is known for, or just simply experience snow while gazing at the Pirin Mountains. December to March are the ideal times for this. July is the hottest weather in Bulgaria, so if you’re looking to see some snow, this might not be the time to visit.

Nessebar

A literal Pearl in the Black Sea, it isn’t a wonder why this nickname was given to Nessebar. From its breathtaking beaches to its 5th-century brick churches that have been certified UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nessebar draws massive influence from Byzantine, Greek, Ottoman nations who have conquered the city, and its architecture proves their impact. Besides the beaches, you can also learn more about this historic place by visiting the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the Nessebar way of life.

The best time to visit this historic town is from June to October where the weather is pleasant and ideal for being on the beach. October is also the rainiest time in Nessebar, so it’s best to stay prepared for fluctuating weather. January is winter season, so if you’re visiting the beaches and strolling, January’s winters might be a bit of a hassle.

Sofia

The capital of Bulgaria on its own is a city to be marveled upon. Sofia is a hybrid of modern attractions and historical landmarks that one can’t afford to miss on their visit. From the St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, which is the second-largest cathedral in the Balkan region, to the fashionable Vitosha Boulevard. Of course, if you’re looking for something more natural, you can always gaze upon Vitosha Mountain and its lovely snow caps.

Museum hopping is a must in Sofia as it is home to the National Institute of Archaeology that houses relics from classical civilizations and Thracian gold. The National Historical Museum displays the rich history of Bulgaria’s past and a peek into the future with an exhibition of space exploration equipment. There are even golf ranges for golf enthusiasts, such as the Pravets Golf Club that has a well-lit range perfect for night golfing.

Plovdiv

Bulgaria’s second-largest city is home to architectural marvels perfect for those with an artistic eye to gaze upon while driving. The Ancient Theatre is a landmark that is quite a coliseum in appearance but with a different twist. This was where operas were performed, with marbled benches surrounding the center. Bulgaria truly is a place for culture.

If you're yearning to experience what Plovdiv’s life is like, then visit the Kapana area, where it is teeming with galleries, restaurants, shops, and all things reflective of Bulgarian culture. Spring and autumn during March through May and September to November are the best times to visit Plovdiv, while July and August are the hottest months, which can be inconvenient if you’re looking to stroll and walk around.