RRoad Clarity

BulgariavsNorth Macedonia

Bulgaria and North Macedonia share a land border — here's how their driving rules differ, side by side.

VERIFIED 2026-07-29 & 2026-07-29 · METHODOLOGY
RULEBulgariaNorth Macedonia
Driving sideDrives on the rightDrives on the right
Urban speed limit50 km/h50 km/h
Rural speed limit90 km/h80 km/h
Motorway speed limit140 km/h120 km/h
Alcohol limit (general)0.5‰0.5‰
Alcohol limit (novice)0.0‰0.0‰
Mandatory equipmentWarning triangle, Hi-vis vest, First aid kit, Fire extinguisherWarning triangle, Hi-vis vest, First aid kit
TollsVignetteToll booths
HeadlightsDipped headlights are required at all times, day and night, year-round.Dipped headlights are required at all times, day and night, year-round.
Winter tires / chainsWinter tires (or all-season tires with adequate tread, or chains carried) are effectively required in winter conditions on many roads — enforcement is active, especially on signed mountain routes.Generally required in winter conditions on mountain roads; carrying chains is recommended for mountain routes in season.
Low-emission / restricted zonesNo nationwide low-emission zone network; Sofia has limited local traffic restrictions during high-pollution episodes.No low-emission zone network; Skopje has occasional local traffic restrictions during high-pollution episodes.
Child seatsChildren under 150 cm must use an approved child restraint suited to their size.Children require an appropriate child restraint suited to their age and size.
Mobile phone useHands-free only; holding a phone while driving is prohibited.Hands-free only; holding a phone while driving is prohibited.
CurrencyBGNMKD
Emergency number112112