International Driver's License for Bulgaria
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Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
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Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
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Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
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Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in Bulgaria?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Bulgaria depends on who you are and how long you are staying.
Last updated:
| Driver type | IDP needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist or short-term visitor | Recommended | Strongly recommended for all visitors; often required when your license is not in the local language. |
| Rental car driver | Often required | Many rental agencies ask for an IDP alongside a foreign license at pickup. |
| Long-term resident | Not sufficient | After establishing residency you will usually need a local driver's license. |
| Local license holder traveling abroad | Recommended | Carry an IDL with your national license when driving in most foreign countries. |
Rules vary by region — see the FAQ below for local requirements and traffic laws.
Documents you need
- A valid driver's license from your home country
- A passport-style photo — a phone photo is accepted
- No driving test and no DMV visit required
You do not need to be a citizen or resident to apply.
How it works
- Complete the online application — it takes about 2 minutes
- Upload your driver's license and photo
- Receive your digital IDL in about 8 minutes; the printed booklet ships worldwide
International Driver's License Information & Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driver's License in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria asks visitors from abroad to carry an International Driver's License together with their valid home country license. The IDL is an official translation that makes your license recognisable to local police, authorities, and car rental companies — useful where signage and documents are in Bulgarian and use the Cyrillic alphabet. Apply online through E-ITA and access your digital documents in minutes.
What is an IDL/IDP, and how does it work in Bulgaria?
IDL and IDP — International Driving License and International Driving Permit — are two names for the same booklet, which translates your national license into multiple languages. In Bulgaria, where the Cyrillic script can make a foreign license hard to read at a glance, the IDP presents your details clearly. It never replaces your national license: you must carry both together while driving.
Which side of the road do you drive on in Bulgaria?
You drive on the right-hand side of the road in Bulgaria. Visitors from left-driving countries should take care at junctions and when overtaking on Bulgaria's highways and rural roads.
What are the key traffic rules for drivers in Bulgaria?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 18, while the minimum age to rent a car is 21.
* Bulgaria has a national seat belt law — always wear a seat belt when one is fitted.
* Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, though a hands-free device is permitted.
* Helmets are required by law for both riders and passengers on motorcycles and scooters, and child passengers under age 12 are not permitted on them.
* Legal Blood Alcohol Content limit: 0.05% — do not drink and drive.
* Speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and 90 km/h (55 mph) in rural areas.
Can I rent a car in Bulgaria with an International Driver's License?
Yes. Bulgarian rental agencies typically ask for your national license, your International Driver's License, and your passport, with a minimum rental age of 21. Because the IDL renders your license in a readable form, presenting it alongside your national license helps the counter process your booking without confusion over the Cyrillic-language paperwork.
Do I need an IDP to drive in Bulgaria as an EU or EEA licence holder?
Bulgaria is part of the EU, and EU/EEA licences are generally accepted there. The International Driver's License is most relevant for visitors holding non-EU licences, for whom it provides an official translation that Bulgarian police and rental desks can read. If you're unsure whether yours qualifies, an IDL removes the doubt.
Can I get an IDP after I've already arrived in Bulgaria?
It's best arranged before your trip, but E-ITA's application is entirely online, so you can apply from Bulgaria and receive your digital International Driver's License within minutes if a rental desk asks for one. Carry the physical booklet with your license once it's issued.
How long does it take to get my International Driver's License for Bulgaria?
Just a few minutes. You complete E-ITA's online application and your digital International Driver's License is issued promptly, so it's ready before you drive in Bulgaria.
Who can apply for an International Driver's License to drive in Bulgaria?
Anyone holding a valid national driver's license can apply. The IDP translates that license, so your home license must remain current; in Bulgaria you carry both together, the driving age is 18, and the rental age is 21.
How long can I drive in Bulgaria on my foreign license?
For tourist stays, Bulgaria accepts a valid foreign license, with an International Driver's License providing a recognised translation for non-EU drivers. For longer stays or residency you should check local licensing rules, but for a normal visit your home license plus your IDL is what authorities and rental companies expect.
What travelers say
Reviews from verified E-ITA customers.
“The rental agent asked for an IDP with my license. I showed the digital copy from my phone and picked up the car with no issues.”
“The digital version arrived fast and worked at the rental counter. The printed booklet took five days to arrive, which was fine for my trip.”
“Applied from the airport with urgent processing and had the PDF before boarding. Exactly what I needed for my road trip.”
Ready to drive in Bulgaria?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
