🚗 Bulgarian Driving License for Foreigners in 2025 – Complete Guide
Are you a foreigner living in or moving to Bulgaria and wondering how to legally Buy Bulgarian driver’s license? Whether you’re from an EU country or a non-EU nation, understanding the rules for driving in Bulgaria is essential. This complete guide explains how to use, exchange, or Buy Bulgarian driver’s license in 2025.
✅ Validity of Foreign Driving Licenses in Bulgaria
Your foreign driving license is valid in Bulgaria if:
- You are at least 18 years old
- The license was issued in an EU/EEA country, Switzerland, or a country that is a party to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic
- You carry either a certified Bulgarian translation of your license or an International Driving Permit (IDP)
🚫 Licenses from countries not party to the Vienna Convention are not recognized in Bulgaria. In that case, you must obtain a Bulgarian driving license after 3 months of residence.
🔄 Exchanging a Foreign Driving License in Bulgaria
If you’re legally residing in Bulgaria, you may exchange your existing license for a Bulgarian one. This is available to both EU citizens and eligible non-EU citizens.
📌 Documents Required:
- Your foreign driving license (original)
- Residence permit or Bulgarian ID card
- Valid passport photo
- Proof of address in Bulgaria
- Medical certificate (in some cases)
📍 Where to Apply:
Go to your local Traffic Police Office. Once approved, your foreign license will be returned to the issuing country, and a Bulgarian one will be issued.
🔁 Bulgarian Driving License Renewal
If your EU driving license expires while living in Bulgaria, you must renew it through the Bulgarian traffic authorities. Requirements are similar to the exchange process and may include a vision test or health check, depending on your age and driving category.
🌍 Driving in Bulgaria for Non-EU Citizens
Tourists:
You can drive with an international driving permit for up to 90 days.
Residents:
After 90 days, you are required to start the full Bulgarian driving license process, which includes courses, exams, and medical evaluations.
📝 10 Steps to Get a Bulgarian Driving License (For Non-EU Citizens)
- Obtain a Bulgarian residence permit
- Legalize your high school diploma in Bulgaria
- Validate your diploma through the Ministry of Education
- Complete a medical check-up
- Enroll in a certified driving school
- 40 hours of theory
- 31 practical driving sessions (50 minutes each)
- Pass internal exams at your driving school
- Take the written theory exam (available in English)
- Pass the official driving test
- Pass a first aid exam (usually through the Bulgarian Red Cross)
- Pay the issuance fees and receive your Bulgarian driving license
📘 Tip: Use online resources to practice for the theory test in English!
FAQs About Bulgarian Driving Licenses for Foreigners
Can I drive in the USA with a Bulgarian driver’s license?
Yes, for a short-term stay (up to 90 days). For longer stays, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
How much does it cost to get a driving license in Bulgaria?
Expect to pay between BGN 700–1,200 (~€350–€600) for courses, exams, and document processing.
How long does it take to get a Bulgarian driving license?
The full process usually takes 1 to 3 months, depending on your availability and exam dates.
Can I apply online?
Some driving schools allow pre-registration online, but in-person attendance is required for driving lessons and exams.
🛣 Summary: Driving Legally in Bulgaria as a Foreigner
If you’re planning to drive in Bulgaria, make sure you:
- Understand the validity of your current license
- Know whether you need to exchange or reapply
- Follow all legal steps and documentation
- Use a certified driving school and testing center
Driving legally protects you from penalties, ensures you’re insured, and helps you enjoy life in Bulgaria with ease.
🔗 Related Topics
- How to apply for Bulgarian residency
- Best driving schools in Sofia
- Exchange EU driving license in Bulgaria
- Bulgarian traffic laws for foreigners
- Theory test in English Bulgaria
- Medical exam for driving license Bulgaria
- IDP Bulgaria requirements
- Vienna Convention on Road Traffic explained
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