Bosnia Traffic Guide

About the road traffic in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a beautiful country on the Balkan Peninsula, characterised by a forested and mountainous landscape with impressive karst mountains. This makes driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina sometimes very challenging. However, as some of the country's most beautiful sights are located in remote areas not accessible by public transport, this challenge can be well worth it.

In this article, you will learn what to consider when driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which traffic rules to follow, and what the roads and petrol stations in the country are like.

An overview of Bosnia and Herzegovina's traffic rules

• In Bosnia and Herzegovina, you can drive from the age of 18. For international travellers, the EU driving licence is sufficient.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina drives on the right with all the corresponding rules (right before left, overtake on the left, roundabouts anticlockwise).
• Within towns, the maximum speed limit in Bosnia and Herzegovina is 50 km/h. Outside towns, the speed limit is 80 km/h, and on expressways, it is 100 km/h.
• In Bosnia and Herzegovina, dipped headlights must be used at all times of the day and year. All passengers must wear seat belts during transit. Mobile phone use is only allowed with a hands-free device.
• The use of radar detectors is prohibited in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including navigation systems with built-in radar detection.
• A warning triangle, first aid kit, and high-visibility vests must be present in the vehicle. The high-visibility vest must be worn when exiting the vehicle in case of breakdowns or accidents outside urban areas.
• The alcohol limit for drivers who are over 21 years old and have had their licence for at least three years is 0.3‰. Drivers under 21 or who have had their licence for less than three years must adhere to a 0.0‰ limit.
• Novice drivers under 23 years old and those who have had their licence for less than a year are not allowed to drive between 11 PM and 5 AM.
• Motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians are not allowed to wear earplugs.

Driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The roads in Bosnia and Herzegovina

In the urban areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina, such as Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka, there are well-developed roads that make driving straightforward. The larger cities and populous regions are connected by motorways, expressways, and main roads, facilitating easy car travel from city to city.

Petrol stations and charging points

Petrol and Diesel: In Bosnia and Herzegovina, petrol and diesel prices are slightly cheaper than the European average. The country has a well-developed network of petrol stations, so refuelling in Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally not a problem.

Rental car or own car?

Bosnia and Herzegovina is accessible by land using your own car. Those entering with a car from the EU need to display the oval country sticker for entry. Additionally, the International Insurance Card must be carried to prove vehicle liability insurance. Ensure that your International Insurance Card includes the country code "BIH" for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Those who do not wish to drive their own car to Bosnia and Herzegovina can rent a car locally. Car rental availability is good in all cities and tourist areas, especially at the four international airports in Sarajevo, Tuzla, Banja Luka, and Mostar.

To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old and have held your driving licence for more than a year. Depending on the car rental company, the minimum age requirement may be higher. Some providers also set a maximum age limit.

Fines

Fines can be imposed directly by the police in Bosnia and Herzegovina and are approximately as follows: