Cross-border route
Romania Bulgaria
Romania 
BulgariaDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Romania into Bulgaria, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Bulgaria 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. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromRomania
ToBulgaria
IDP in BulgariaRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in BulgariaBGN
Romania → Bulgaria
Crossing the border
Romania and Bulgaria share a land border you can cross by car. Keep your passport, national driving licence and International Driving Permit together, and check opening hours and any toll or vignette requirements before you travel.
Driving rules in Bulgaria
- Electronic vignette required on national roads.
- Headlights on day and night.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Reflective vest and triangle mandatory.
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Romania to Bulgaria?
Yes — Bulgaria requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Bulgaria recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Romania and Bulgaria?
No. Both Romania and Bulgaria drive on the right.
03
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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