Bosnia and Herzegovina Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Bosnia and Herzegovina Driving Licence: Obtaining a driving licence in Bosnia and Herzegovina allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview of driving licences in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

Bosnia and Herzegovina Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Types of Licences

There are different categories of driving licences issued in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

  • Category A – Motorcycles
  • Category B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg
  • Category C – Vehicles over 3,500 kg
  • Category D – Passenger transportation vehicles
  • Category BE, CE, DE – Combined vehicle licences

Eligibility and Minimum Age

To qualify for a driving licence in Bosnia and Herzegovina you must:

  • Be at least 16 years old (Category A)
  • Be at least 18 years old (Category B, BE)
  • Be at least 21 years old (Category C, CE)
  • Be at least 24 years old (Category D, DE)
  • Pass required theory and practical driving tests

Licence Validity

Licence validity periods:

  • Category A – 6 years
  • Category B – 10 years
  • Category C, D – 5 years
  • Combined categories – 5 years

Licences must be renewed before they expire.

New Residents and Tourists

Tourists can drive using foreign licences for up to 6 months. New residents can drive for 30 days on foreign licences before getting a local one. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Getting Your First Bosnia and Herzegovina Driving Licence

Here are the steps to obtaining your initial driving licence in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

1. Enroll in a Driving School

  • Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
  • Training covers traffic rules, hazard perception, skills.
  • Get a learner’s permit after completing instruction.

2. Pass the Theory Test

  • Take the multiple choice theory test on road signs, laws, traffic regulations.
  • Answer at least 26 out of 30 questions correctly to pass.

3. Pass the Practical Driving Test

  • Take the practical test assessing your driving abilities.
  • An examiner will evaluate your control, safety, judgement.
  • Achieve a minimum pass score of 74%.

4. Obtain Your Licence Card

  • Visit relevant authority with passed test certificates.
  • Submit application, medical certificate, ID, photos.
  • Pay required licence issuance fee.
  • Your photo licence will be provided.

Renewing a Bosnia and Herzegovina Driving Licence

To continue driving legally, you must renew your licence before expiration:

  • Licences can be renewed up to 6 months before expiry.
  • Present current licence and undergo vision screening.
  • Get new photo taken and pay renewal fees.
  • Your updated licence card will be issued.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence

If your driving licence is lost or stolen:

  • File a report with the police documenting loss/theft.
  • Apply for replacement at relevant authority.
  • Provide police report and details of old licence.
  • Pay replacement fee.
  • You will be issued a duplicate licence.

Changing Your Address on Your Licence

When you change your official residence:

  • Notify relevant authority within 30 days of address change.
  • Provide proof of your new address.
  • Pay change of address fee.
  • Your driving licence will be updated with new address.

Getting an International Driving Permit

To drive in other countries, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP):

  • Apply for IDP at automobile club.
  • Bring current licence, passport photos and photocopies.
  • Complete application and pay fee.
  • Carry both your licence and IDP when driving overseas.

Traffic Rules and Regulations in Bosnia and Herzegovina

When driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina, follow these main traffic laws:

General Driving

  • Drive on the right side of the road
  • Mandatory seat belt wearing
  • Require proper use of child restraints
  • Obey speed limits and traffic signs

Speed Limits

  • 50 km/h in urban areas
  • 80 km/h on open roads
  • 120 km/h on highways

Alcohol Limits

  • 0.03% maximum blood alcohol content
  • 0.00% for novice and professional drivers

Documentation

  • Driving licence must be carried at all times

Fines

  • Speeding fines from 100KM
  • Driving unlicensed – fines up to 1500KM

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Bosnia and Herzegovina

If you commit a traffic offence, here is how to deal with resulting fines:

Pay the Fine

  • Fines can be paid at banks, post offices, and some police stations.
  • Pay promptly to avoid additional late penalties.
  • Keep receipt as proof of payment.

Dispute the Fine

  • To contest, file written challenge within 8 days.
  • Submit any evidence supporting your dispute.
  • Fine may be waived if dispute upheld.

Licence Suspension

  • Licence may be suspended for serious offences.
  • Accumulating too many penalty points also leads to suspension.
  • Regain licence by obeying suspension terms.

Failure to Pay

  • Unpaid fines referred for court enforcement.
  • Additional fees and charges added.
  • Can result in driving privileges being revoked.

FAQ on Bosnia and Herzegovina Driving Licences

1. How much does it cost to get a driving licence in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Getting a new driving licence costs around 200-300KM. This includes mandatory lessons, theory/practical tests, documentation and issuance of the licence card. Renewal every 5-10 years is approximately 50KM.

2. What is the minimum driving age in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The minimum age is 16 years for a motorcycle licence, 18 years for a car licence, 21 years for truck and bus licences, and 24 years for public transportation vehicle licences.

3. Can I drive in Bosnia and Herzegovina with my US licence?

Yes, US license holders can legally drive using their current licence for up to 6 months as a tourist in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Residency requires obtaining a local licence within 30 days. An IDP is recommended.

4. How do I replace my lost Bosnia and Herzegovina driving licence?

Report the loss immediately to police and apply for replacement at the relevant authority. Provide the police report and details of your old licence. Pay the fee to be issued a duplicate licence.

5. Can I renew my Bosnia and Herzegovina licence from overseas?

No, you cannot renew a Bosnia and Herzegovina driving licence from overseas. You must be present in-person for vision screening and to collect the renewed physical licence card.