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Driving in Belgium vs. Bulgaria: Key Differences Explained

When navigating the roads of Belgium and Bulgaria, understanding the nuances in traffic regulations is crucial for ensuring a safe journey. Key distinctions arise in lane markings, speed limits, and alcohol regulations. While Belgium emphasizes electronic speed signs and a varied approach to fines, Bulgaria focuses on stricter alcohol limits and different traffic signal practices. Explore these driving contrasts to enhance your travel experience.

Lanes

Markings: Solid Yellow Line
belgium:
Not commonly used; white lines are prevalent.
bulgaria:
Marks the left edge on divided roads.
Markings: Dashed Yellow Line
belgium:
Not commonly used; white lines are prevalent.
bulgaria:
Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe.
Overtaking: On Right
belgium:
Generally not allowed except in traffic queues or on multi-lane roads.
bulgaria:
Allowed on multi-lane roads or when the vehicle ahead is turning left.
Bus Lanes: Usage
belgium:
Reserved for buses and sometimes taxis; specific hours may apply.
bulgaria:
Primarily reserved for public transport.
High- Occupancy Lanes: Requirements
belgium:
N/A
bulgaria:
N/A
Variable Speed Limits: Presence
belgium:
Yes
bulgaria:
No
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
belgium:
Electronic signs display current limits.
bulgaria:
N/A

Speeds Limits

Urban Areas: Standard
belgium:
30-50 km/h
bulgaria:
50 km/h
Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles
belgium:
70-90 km/h
bulgaria:
90 km/h
Rural Areas: Buses And Vans
belgium:
70-90 km/h
bulgaria:
80 km/h
Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers
belgium:
60-90 km/h
bulgaria:
80 km/h
Highways: Cars And Motorcycles
belgium:
120 km/h
bulgaria:
140 km/h
Highways: Buses And Vans
belgium:
120 km/h
bulgaria:
100 km/h
Highways: Trucks And Trailers
belgium:
90 km/h
bulgaria:
100 km/h
Variable Speed Limits: Presence
belgium:
Yes
bulgaria:
No
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
belgium:
Electronic signs display current limits
bulgaria:
N/A
Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines
belgium:
No; fines are mailed to the driver
bulgaria:
Yes

Signals

Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together
belgium:
Yes; indicates impending green light
bulgaria:
Not used in Bulgaria
Traffic Signs: Language
belgium:
Dutch, French, German; symbols are standard
bulgaria:
Bulgarian; symbols are standard
Traffic Signs: Warning
belgium:
Triangle-shaped with a red border and white or yellow background
bulgaria:
Triangle-shaped with a red border

Turns

Right Turn On Red
belgium:
Not allowed unless specific signage permits
bulgaria:
Not generally allowed
U- Turns Allowed
belgium:
Allowed unless prohibited by signs
bulgaria:
Permitted unless indicated otherwise by signs

Documentation

Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A
belgium:
Accepted; national driving license sufficient
bulgaria:
Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended
Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U
belgium:
International Driving Permit recommended
bulgaria:
Accepted for short visits with International Driving Permit
Vehicle Inspection: Requirement
belgium:
Yes; proof must be shown during police checks
bulgaria:
Yes, proof required

Alcohol

Limits: Professional Drivers
belgium:
0.02%
bulgaria:
0.00%
Limits: Underage Drivers
belgium:
0.00%; zero tolerance
bulgaria:
0.00%
Enforcement: Random Checks
belgium:
Common; conducted by police
bulgaria:
Common; checkpoints used
Enforcement: Fines
belgium:
Varies by severity of offense
bulgaria:
Substantial

Emergency Services

Contact: Traffic Police
belgium:
101
bulgaria:
Varies by region
Contact: Roadside Assistance
belgium:
Check with your insurance provider or Europe Assistance
bulgaria:
Check with your insurance provider or local providers

Penalties And Fines

Common Fines: Speeding
belgium:
Varies; fines increase with speed, and can include license suspension
bulgaria:
Varies; often €20 to €150, points on license
Common Fines: Seat Belts
belgium:
Fine of around 50 EUR
bulgaria:
Up to €50
Common Fines: Phone Use
belgium:
Fine of around 100 EUR, increased for repeat offenses
bulgaria:
Up to €50
Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation
belgium:
Fines; points on license possible
bulgaria:
Varies; typically fined and points on license
Payment: On The Spot
belgium:
No; fines usually mailed to the driver
bulgaria:
Common; fines often paid onsite
Payment: Deadline
belgium:
Varies; typically 15 to 30 days to pay
bulgaria:
Varies; typically 30 days to pay