Cross-border route

Bulgaria Turkey

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Bulgaria into Turkey, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Turkey expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The Kapıkule crossing near Edirne is one of the busiest land borders in the region.

Get my permit for Turkey Turkey requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromBulgaria

ToTurkey

IDP in TurkeyRequired

Accepted formatBoth

Driving sideright (no change)

Currency in TurkeyTRY

Bulgaria → Turkey

Crossing the border

The Kapıkule crossing near Edirne is one of the busiest land borders in the region.

Driving rules in Turkey

HGS/OGS electronic tolls on motorways and bridges.
Headlights and seatbelts mandatory.
0.05% alcohol limit; zero if towing.
Carry passport, licence and IDP.

What to see when you arrive in Turkey

Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul
the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia
the travertines of Pamukkale
the ruins of Ephesus
the beaches of the Turquoise Coast

Common questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Bulgaria to Turkey?

Yes — Turkey requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Turkey recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.

Does the driving side change between Bulgaria and Turkey?

No. Both Bulgaria and Turkey drive on the right.

How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?

International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.

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