Bulgaria Driving Licence : Getting a driver’s license in Bulgaria involves several steps including studying for and passing theoretical and practical exams, meeting medical requirements, and submitting proper documentation. Here is a brief overview of what’s required:
- Minimum age is 16 years for a Category B license to drive cars and 18 for trucks and buses
- Must pass a theory test on traffic rules and safety
- Must pass a medical examination
- Must pass a practical driving test
- Licenses are issued by the Ministry of Transport, Information Technology and Communications
- License is valid for 10 years before renewal is required
Steps to Getting a Driver’s License
Follow these main steps to get your first driver’s license in Bulgaria:
Enroll in a Driving School
- You must complete driving lessons at an accredited driving school
- Lessons cover theory, safe driving techniques, and driving practice
- The number of required lessons varies based on your skill
Study for the Theory Exam
- The theory test covers traffic signs, rules, fines, and safety
- Many practice tests are available online
- The exam has 35 multiple choice questions
- You must score at least 31 out of 35 to pass
Take the Theory Exam
- Exams are conducted at Regional Transport Department offices
- Bring your ID and completed application form
- Results are given immediately
Get a Medical Check
- You need a medical certificate from an approved practitioner
- The exam tests vision, hearing, reflexes and general health
Take the Practical Driving Test
- The practical test assesses your driving skills and ability to drive safely
- It includes various maneuvers and driving in traffic
- An examiner will assess and score your driving
Apply for Your License
- Bring all documentation to the Regional Transport Department office
- Pay the license fee (about 25 leva)
- Have your photo taken for your license
- You should receive your license within a few weeks
Requirements for Getting a Bulgaria Driving Licence
To qualify for a driver’s license in Bulgaria, you must meet certain requirements:
- Minimum Age: 16 years for Category B (cars), 18 for trucks and buses
- Citizenship/Residency: Bulgarian citizens, EU nationals, or legal residents
- Medical Fitness: Get approved after examination by certified doctor
- Driving School: Complete required lessons at accredited school
- Exams: Pass theory exam and practical driving test
- Documentation: Provide identity documents, passport photos, proof of residency
- Fees: Pay license application fee
Steps for Renewing a Driver’s License
Driver’s licenses must be renewed every 10 years in Bulgaria. To renew your license:
- Download a license renewal application or get one from your local Traffic Police office
- Complete the application and gather required documents
- Get a new medical certificate confirming fitness to drive
- Take an updated photo for your new license
- Pay the renewal fee (about 25 leva)
- Submit paperwork and old license to the Traffic Police
- Your new license should arrive within 2-3 weeks
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Driver’s License
If your driver’s license is lost, stolen or damaged, you must replace it within 30 days. Here is the process:
- File a report with the nearest police station regarding the lost/stolen license
- Get a new medical certificate of fitness to drive
- Download a replacement license application or get one from the Traffic Police
- Pay the replacement fee (about 25 leva)
- Provide valid identification and passport photo
- Submit the application and police report to the Traffic Police
- You will be issued a new driver’s license number
Changing Your Address on Your License
If you change your official permanent address, you must update your driver’s license. Here’s how:
- Inform the Traffic Police of your new address within 30 days
- Download the driver’s license data amendment application
- Complete the application with your new address details
- Provide supporting documents as proof of new residence
- Pay the update fee (about 10 leva)
- Submit the application and documents to your local Traffic Police office
- You will receive a sticker to put on your license with the new address
Taking Your Driving Theory Test
The theory test covers road signs, rules, safety, and fines. Here are some tips for passing:
- Study the official driver’s handbook and online practice tests
- Know the meaning of different traffic signs and signals
- Understand right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking regulations
- Study fines and penalties for dangerous driving behaviors
- Brush up on safety procedures like seatbelts, airbags, child seats
- Get a good night’s sleep before the test
- The test has 35 multiple choice questions and you need 31 correct to pass
Taking Your Practical Driving Test
To qualify for your license, you must pass a practical driving test. Key tips:
- Take driving lessons to practice and prepare
- The test will assess your vehicle control abilities like parking, turning, reversing
- Follow all traffic rules and drive defensively
- Perform maneuvers like 3-point turns, lane changes, parking on hills
- Watch your speed and check mirrors and blind spots
- Relax and focus – don’t let nerves affect your driving
- If you fail, you can retake the test after several days of practice
Traffic Laws, Rules and Fines in Bulgaria
It’s important to follow Bulgaria’s traffic laws and regulations when driving. Some key rules and fines:
Speed Limits:
- 50 km/h in urban areas
- 90 km/h on main highways
- 130 km/h on motorways
Fines for exceeding limits range from 50-600 leva.
Drunk Driving
Maximum blood alcohol level is 0.5. Fines and license suspension penalties apply above this.
Seat Belts
Mandatory for all passengers. Fine for non-compliance is 50 leva.
Mobile Phones
Prohibited while driving except with permitted hands-free system. Fines from 100-150 leva.
Parking
Not allowed on sidewalks, bus stops, intersections, or other prohibited areas. Parking fines 25-150 leva.
Other Fines
- Running a red light – 100 leva
- Ignoring stop sign – 50 leva
- Passing on the right – 20 leva
5 Important FAQs About Driving in Bulgaria
- How old do I need to be to get a driver’s license in Bulgaria?The minimum age is 16 years for a Category B license covering cars and 18 years for Category C covering trucks and buses.
- Is my EU or international license valid in Bulgaria?Yes, EU and many other licenses are valid for short-term driving in Bulgaria, generally up to 6 months. You may need an International Driving Permit.
- How do I renew my Bulgarian driver’s license?Licenses must be renewed every 10 years. You need to submit a renewal application, new medical certificate, photos and a small fee.
- What documents do I need to apply for a Bulgarian license?You’ll need identity documents, passport photos, proof of legal residence, medical certificate, and proof of completion from a driving school.
- Can I get a Bulgarian license if I don’t speak Bulgarian?Yes, the tests can be taken in over 30 languages. The theory test is available in English.
Conclusion
Obtaining a driver’s license in Bulgaria involves passing theory and practical exams, meeting medical requirements, and submitting the proper documentation. Study hard, practice your driving skills, follow the rules of the road, and remember to renew your license every 10 years. With this guide, you will be well on your way to getting your license. Safe travels!