Information on Driving a Rental Car in Bulgaria

Bulgaria Driving Overview

There are over 8,000 miles of roads in Bulgaria that link the major city centers, the quality of these roads are generally good. Once you are off these major roads, you run into some smaller routes between cities. It takes about 6 hours to drive across Bulgaria.

Driving Age Requirements

To rent a car in Bulgaria, you must be at least 20 years old (age may vary by car category) and have held your license for one year. Drivers under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. There is no permissible blood alcohol content allowed while driving. Child seats are mandatory for children up to age 2.

Rules of the Road

Traffic travels on the right and the police strictly enforce posted speeds. Trams always have priority and pedestrians have the right of way in 'zebra striped' crosswalks.

Speed Limits & Gas Stations in Bulgaria  City 31mph/50kph Open Roads 50mph/80kph Highways 75mph/120kph Gas Station Availability - Gas stations can be found along the main roads in Bulgaria every 10-15 miles. Most gas stations are open from 6 am to 10 pm with some stations in Sofia open 24 hours.

Parking & Tolls in Bulgaria There are no toll highways in Bulgaria. On one-way streets, park on the right only. Blue Zone parking is in effect in many built up areas and tickets are used instead of discs. When outside of built-up areas, you may park off the road.

Car Rental Insurance Information in Bulgaria

Car rental insurance varies widely, so please review the information below prior to making your reservation. Regulations of the country where you rent the car will be in effect for the duration of your rental.

All our car rental rates include fire and third party liability insurance. Our inclusive rates also provide collision and theft coverage at an advance purchase discount. You may elect to decline collision and theft coverage. If you plan to take advantage of coverage offered by your credit card, please contact your card issuer directly for details. Specific insurance information for your reservation will be printed on your confirmation voucher.

The following guidelines apply to rentals commencing in Bulgaria.

Required Coverage

Fire and third party liability insurance is mandatory and is included in all rentals. Third party liability insurance offers unlimited coverage in case of damage or injury to people or property outside of the rental car.

Optional Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection are included in our inclusive rates at a discount. CDW, if purchased at the rental counter, costs approximately US$26 - US$36 per day. Theft protection is available for US$20 - US$30 per day. CDW and theft coverage reduce the deductible (responsibility of the client) to US$360 to US$1000 depending on vehicle type. Super CDW may be offered locally to reduce the deductible to as low as zero. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) is available at the rental counter for approximately US$6 - US$10 per day. Optional insurance coverage is available with select suppliers only, rates subject to change without notice.

Car Rental Restrictions in Bulgaria

Restricted Countries

Cars rented in Bulgaria are not allowed to be taken outside of the country, exceptions may be granted for an additional fee. Additional insurance may also be required when traveling outside of Bulgaria.

One-Way Car Rentals

Domestic one-way car rentals and one-way van rentals are available between select locations, additional fees may apply. International one-way rentals may be available for an additional fee.