Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Turkey: Driving Rules Compared

Bosnia and Herzegovina sets a stricter blood-alcohol limit than its neighbour to the east, 0.03 against 0.05 in Turkey, so a single drink can already cross the line there. Winter tyres follow a different logic too: Bosnia mandates them on fixed dates, 1 November to 1 April, while Turkey leaves the decision to provincial orders outside the commercial fleet.

Drivers will find the transition between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey easy, as both countries drive on the right-hand side of the road.

💡 Try it yourself: Speeding Fine Calculator 2026 — it covers Turkey (not yet Bosnia and Herzegovina), free.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits are one of the first things drivers notice when crossing borders. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey take notably different approaches.

Bosnia and Herzegovina sets its speed limits at 50 km/h in cities and towns, 80 km/h on country roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

Turkey sets its speed limits at 50 km/h in cities and towns, 90 km/h on country roads, and 120 km/h on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey. Relying on your knowledge of one country’s limits while driving in the other is a common cause of speeding fines for tourists.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Bosnia and Herzegovina drives on the right; Turkey drives on the right. Since both countries use the same driving side, the transition is seamless in this regard.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 18 in Bosnia and Herzegovina and 18 in Turkey.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the penalty is BAM 50-200 (approx. EUR 25-100). In Turkey, the penalty is TRY 5,000 (approx. EUR 130). Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is BAM 40-100 (approx. EUR 20-50) in Bosnia and Herzegovina and TRY 2,500 (approx. EUR 65) in Turkey.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, expect BAM 100-400 (approx. EUR 50-200) + 3 penalty points. In Turkey, the penalty is TRY 5,000 (approx. EUR 130).

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Understanding each country’s approach to drink-driving is critical, as enforcement and penalties vary considerably.

Bosnia and Herzegovina sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.03%.

Turkey has a BAC limit of 0.05%.

The lower limit in Bosnia and Herzegovina means that even a small amount of alcohol could put you over the legal limit. Adjust your behaviour accordingly.

In both countries, penalties for drink-driving include fines, licence suspension, and potential imprisonment for serious offences. New and young drivers often face stricter limits (typically 0.00% to 0.02% BAC) in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey. The safest approach is always to avoid any alcohol before driving.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Vehicle equipment requirements are an often-overlooked aspect of driving abroad. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey each have their own list of mandatory items.

Winter Tyres

• Bosnia and Herzegovina: Winter tyres are mandatory. Period: 1 Nov - 1 Apr. Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Turkey: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 15 Nov - 15 Apr (commercial vehicles mandatory; passenger cars situational). Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

Rental vehicles usually come equipped for the country of hire. If you intend to drive in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: BAM 40-100 (approx. EUR 20-50). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Turkey, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: TRY 2,000 (approx. EUR 50). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

Licence requirements for foreign visitors differ between {a} and {b}. Here is what you need to know.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 6 months on a foreign licence Foreign licence valid for 6 months. IDP recommended.

Turkey: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is required for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 6 months on a foreign licence IDP required for most foreign visitors. EU licences accepted for 6 months.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

Save these emergency numbers before travelling to Bosnia and Herzegovina or Turkey:

The EU-wide emergency number 112 works in both countries and connects to the appropriate emergency service.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Before hitting the road in Bosnia and Herzegovina or Turkey, consider these practical driving tips:

1. Carry the right documents. Ensure you have your driving licence, IDP (if needed), vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Some countries require you to carry these at all times.

2. Watch for different road signs. While European countries share many sign conventions, there are country-specific signs you should recognise. Review a local driving guide before your trip.

3. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

4. Check insurance coverage. Verify that your motor insurance or rental agreement covers driving in both countries. A Green Card may be required for cross-border travel.

5. Adjust to speed limits immediately. When crossing the border, speed limits change. Look for signs and adjust your driving accordingly. Do not rely on habits from the other country.

6. Be aware of environmental zones. Many cities have low-emission zones that restrict older vehicles. Check if you need an environmental sticker for either country.

7. Understand toll systems. Research whether you need a vignette, transponder, or cash for tolls in each country.

8. Research before you go. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules of each country before your trip. Print or save a summary of key rules for quick reference.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Tourist-friendliness of driving varies between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey based on several factors.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is rated 3.5/5 (Challenging) by tourists. Mountain roads, limited motorways, war-damaged areas

Tourist reviews give Turkey a driving ease score of 3.6/5 (Challenging). Aggressive driving culture, variable road quality, Istanbul traffic extreme

Since both Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey drive on the right, the transition between the two is smooth for most drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Turkey with a Bosnia and Herzegovina driving licence?

Yes, EU/EEA driving licences are fully valid in both countries without additional documentation.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Bosnia and Herzegovina compared to Turkey?

The motorway speed limit in Bosnia and Herzegovina is 130 km/h, while in Turkey it is 120 km/h. Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Bosnia and Herzegovina or Turkey?

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, winter tyres are mandatory (1 Nov - 1 Apr). In Turkey, they are situational (15 Nov - 15 Apr (commercial vehicles mandatory; passenger cars situational)). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a stricter BAC limit (0.03%) compared to Turkey (0.05%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey?

Bosnia and Herzegovina drives on the right side and Turkey drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Bosnia and Herzegovina in Turkey?

If both countries are within the EU/EEA, your motor insurance Green Card (or its digital equivalent) typically provides minimum third-party cover in both countries. Check with your insurer for full coverage details.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina or Turkey?

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 112). In Turkey, call 112 (police: 155, ambulance: 112). The pan-European number 112 works in both countries.