Staying safe on the road is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, understanding Bulgaria’s road safety regulations helps protect lives—especially when children are involved. This Road Safety Resource brings together the most essential rules, practical tips, and valuable government-backed campaigns in one place so adults and kids can learn and stay safe together.
Main Road Safety Regulations in Bulgaria
Bulgaria follows EU road safety standards with specific national rules you need to know. Here are the main ones:
For Drivers
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Speed limits:
- 50 km/h in towns
- 90 km/h outside towns
- 130 km/h on highways
- Zero-tolerance for drinking and driving: The legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit is 0.05%.
- Use of headlights: Dipped headlights must be on at all times, year-round.
- Child seats: Children under 150 cm must be in an appropriate car seat.
For more detailed information, check the complete driving guide on GuideBG.com.
Road Safety for Kids and Families
Children are among the most vulnerable road users. It’s essential to teach them how to stay safe when walking, biking, or being driven early.
Walking
- Use zebra crossings and wait for green lights.
- Look left-right-left before crossing.
Biking
- Helmets are mandatory for children under the age of 12.
- Use bike lanes when available.
- Avoid biking after dark unless adequately lit and visible.
Tip: Make road safety a fun family habit. Turn it into a game where kids earn points for safe behavior.
Learn from Official Bulgarian Road Safety Campaigns
The Bulgarian Road Safety Agency (SARS) regularly launches awareness campaigns to educate adults and kids. Here are some helpful brochures and resources:
- Official Brochures & Posters: Helpful for parents, teachers, and children alike. Download from SARS
- Public Campaign: Protecting Children on the Road – A national initiative with practical advice and visual materials for schools and families.
Explore the campaign here.
These resources are great for schools, local authorities, and families who want to promote a safety-first mindset in their communities.
Tips for Tourists Driving in Bulgaria
If you’re a visitor, here are quick tips:
- Have your driver’s license, ID, and insurance papers at all times.
- A vignette (toll sticker) is required on major roads. You can buy it online or at gas stations.
- Watch for road signs in Cyrillic—they may look unfamiliar, but the most important ones also include international symbols.
For full driving tips and laws, visit GuideBG’s driving section.
Road Safety Is a Shared Responsibility
Every day, we make choices that affect not only our safety but the safety of others—especially children. Following the rules, staying alert, and using helpful resources like those shared here can reduce accidents and save lives.
Whether you’re walking your child to school or heading out for a drive, remember that safe roads start with safe choices.
