Bulgaria vs Japan: Driving Rules Compared

No comparison in this series swings harder than Bulgaria and Japan: motorways drop from 140 km/h to 100 km/h, and the wheel moves from the right side to the left. Japan’s drink-drive limit is also the stricter of the two, 0.03 g/L against Bulgaria’s 0.05. Bulgaria adds its own complication for road-trippers, a tiered e-vignette running from EUR 5.30 a day to EUR 64.50 a year, introduced under its new euro pricing from August 2026.

Switching between Bulgaria (right-hand traffic) and Japan (left-hand traffic) requires significant adjustment. Pay special attention to turning, roundabouts, and overtaking — these are the situations where drivers most commonly make errors after switching sides.

💡 Try it yourself: Speeding Fine Calculator 2026 — it covers Japan (not yet Bulgaria), free.

Speed Limits Comparison

One of the most practical differences for drivers is the variation in speed limits between Bulgaria and Japan.

Bulgaria sets its speed limits at 50 km/h in cities and towns, 90 km/h on country roads, and 140 km/h on motorways.

In Japan, the standard speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas, 60 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h) on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Pay attention to signage when driving between Bulgaria and Japan. Speed camera enforcement styles may differ, and ignorance of local limits is not accepted as an excuse.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Bulgaria and Japan have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Bulgaria drives on the right; Japan drives on the left. This is a major difference that requires careful adjustment.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 18 in Bulgaria and 18 in Japan.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Bulgaria, the penalty is EUR 25.56-102.26. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 18,000 (approx. EUR 115) + 3 points. 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 Bulgaria and Japan. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is EUR 25.56 in Bulgaria and Warning / 1 point (no fine for first offence) in Japan.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Bulgaria, expect EUR 51.13-153.39 + 8 penalty points. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 2 points.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Drink-driving laws represent one of the areas where countries diverge most significantly.

Bulgaria sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.05%.

Japan has a BAC limit of 0.03%.

The lower limit in Japan 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 Bulgaria and Japan. 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. Bulgaria and Japan each have their own list of mandatory items.

Winter Tyres

• Bulgaria: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 15 Nov - 1 Mar (or when roads are snowy/icy). Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Japan: Winter tyres are situational. Period: Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter. Studded tyres: restricted. 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 Bulgaria and Japan, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Bulgaria and Japan.

In Bulgaria, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 25.56. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Japan, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 1 point. 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

Before driving in {a} or {b}, ensure you have the correct documentation. Requirements for international visitors vary.

Bulgaria: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors should carry IDP.

Japan: An IDP is required. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence IDP required (1949 Geneva Convention only). US, UK and many EU licences need specific IDP. Drives on the left.

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 Bulgaria or Japan:

Save these numbers in your phone before travelling. In an emergency, quick access to the correct number is crucial.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Preparation is key to a smooth driving experience abroad. Here are tips for driving in Bulgaria and Japan:

1. 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.

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

3. 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.

4. Plan fuel stops. Fuel prices and station availability can vary significantly. In some regions, stations may close at night or on Sundays.

5. 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.

6. Respect local driving culture. Overtaking norms, horn usage, and right-of-way conventions differ. Observe local drivers and adapt accordingly.

7. 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.

8. Learn key phrases. If you do not speak the local language, learn basic driving-related phrases. In an emergency, being able to communicate with police or paramedics can be invaluable.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

For most international tourists, the overall driving experience will vary based on road conditions, signage clarity, and traffic density.

Based on tourist ratings, Bulgaria scores 3.3/5 (Moderate). Improving infrastructure, vignette needed, rural roads rough

Tourist reviews give Japan a driving ease score of 3.0/5 (Moderate). Left-hand driving, expensive tolls, excellent roads, kanji signage

The switch between right-hand traffic in Bulgaria and left-hand traffic in Japan is the single biggest adjustment drivers will face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Japan with a Bulgaria driving licence?

Rules vary by nationality. Check the specific licence requirements for each country, and consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Bulgaria compared to Japan?

The motorway speed limit in Bulgaria is 140 km/h, while in Japan it is 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 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 Bulgaria or Japan?

In Bulgaria, winter tyres are situational (15 Nov - 1 Mar (or when roads are snowy/icy)). In Japan, they are situational (Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter). 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?

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

What side of the road do they drive on in Bulgaria and Japan?

Bulgaria drives on the right side and Japan drives on the left side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Bulgaria in Japan?

International motor insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. Contact your insurer before travelling to confirm coverage in both Bulgaria and Japan. You may need to purchase additional local insurance.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Bulgaria or Japan?

In Bulgaria, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 112). In Japan, call 110 (police: 110, ambulance: 119). Save both numbers in your phone before you travel.

Bulgaria adopted the euro on 1 January 2026. Figures previously published in leva were converted at the fixed statutory rate of 1.95583 leva to the euro.00 to the euro.