North Macedonia Traffic Guide
Travelling in North Macedonia
North Macedonia is one of the most underrated holiday destinations in all of Europe, yet this small Balkan country offers beautiful landscapes and breathtaking views. Since rail transport is not well developed in some of the most picturesque areas of North Macedonia, the best way to reach these places is by car.
In this guide, you will learn about the traffic rules in North Macedonia, the best vehicle to use for exploring the country, and important considerations for your journey.
Overview of Traffic Rules in North Macedonia
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In North Macedonia, you are allowed to drive from the age of 18 with a valid EU driver's license. However, it's important to note that new drivers who have had their license for less than two years are not permitted to drive between 11 PM and 5 AM unless they are accompanied by someone over 25 years old with more than two years of driving experience.
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Like all countries on the European continent, driving is on the right-hand side of the road in North Macedonia. Therefore, the right-before-left rule applies, overtaking is done on the left, and roundabouts are navigated counterclockwise.
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Speed limits in North Macedonia vary depending on the type of road, the type of vehicle, and the driver’s age. Within town limits, the speed limit is 50 km/h. On rural roads, the limit is 80 km/h (70 km/h for vehicles over 7.5 tonnes). Expressways have a maximum speed limit of 110 km/h for cars and motorcycles and 80 km/h for vehicles with trailers. On highways, the general limit is 130 km/h, with 80 km/h for vehicles with trailers and 70 km/h for trucks.
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Drivers under 21 or those who have held their license for less than two years must adhere to reduced speed limits: 60 km/h on rural roads, 80 km/h on expressways, and 100 km/h on highways.
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Headlights must be on at all times in North Macedonia, and all vehicle occupants must wear seat belts. Mobile phone use while driving is only permitted with a hands-free device.
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In addition to carrying a warning triangle, first aid kit, and reflective vests, drivers must also have a towing rope or tow bar in the vehicle. It is also recommended to carry a spare bulb kit.
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The legal alcohol limit for drivers is 0.5‰. However, drivers under 21 and those who have had their license for less than two years must adhere to a strict zero tolerance policy (0.0‰).
Driving in North Macedonia
The Roads in North Macedonia
North Macedonia is known for its picturesque, mountainous landscapes, where driving can be quite challenging. Nevertheless, traffic in North Macedonia is relatively safe.
Especially in the cities and on the main transit routes between the more populated areas, the roads in North Macedonia are well-developed and easily navigable.
However, on rural roads and mountainous routes, you should be prepared for ruts and other irregularities in the road surface.
Additionally, on North Macedonian roads, you may encounter horse-drawn carriages and poorly lit vehicles. Therefore, it is particularly important to drive cautiously in the dark and to avoid traveling in rural areas at night if possible.
Petrol stations and charging points
Petrol and Diesel: The prices for petrol and diesel in North Macedonia are relatively inexpensive on average. The network of petrol stations is well-developed throughout the country.
Most petrol stations in North Macedonia are open during usual business hours on weekdays (from 7 AM to 8 PM). However, along the transit routes, there are stations that are open 24/7, including Sundays.
Electric Cars: North Macedonia is not yet optimally equipped for electric vehicles. Charging stations can be found in cities, along transit routes, and in tourist areas, but beyond these locations, the infrastructure for electric vehicles is still sparse. Therefore, those planning to travel through the country by car are better off using a vehicle with a combustion engine.
Hydrogen Cars: There are currently no hydrogen fuel stations in North Macedonia, making hydrogen vehicles unsuitable for traveling in the country at this time.
Rental car or own car?
North Macedonia, being a landlocked country in Europe, is readily accessible by car. Since North Macedonia is not an EU member state, drivers from the EU need to affix the standardized oval country sticker to their vehicle. Additionally, they must be able to show that their car is insured with the International Insurance Card which includes the country code MK, MKD, or NMK for North Macedonia.
Alternatively, you can rent a car locally. Rental car agencies are primarily located in tourist areas and international airports in the capital, Skopje, and in Ohrid. While it is technically possible to rent a car from the age of 18, most rental companies set the minimum age requirement at 21 or older. They often also require a minimum of one to two years of driving experience.
Fines
In North Macedonia, police officers are not authorized to collect fines directly on the spot. Instead, fines must generally be paid at the nearest bank or post office.
The traffic fine schedule in North Macedonia includes, but is not limited to, the following penalties:
- Speeding by more than 20 km/h: from 20 Euros (approx. £17)
- Speeding by more than 50 km/h: from 300 Euros (approx. £260)
- Seat belt violation: 20 Euros (approx. £17)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol: from 250 Euros (approx. £215)
- Running a red light: from 300 Euros (approx. £260)
- Using a phone while driving: 45 Euros (approx. £40)
- Parking violation: from 45 Euros (approx. £40)
Conclusion: Driving in North Macedonia
North Macedonia can be comfortably explored by car as the majority of the road network is well developed. However, caution is advised in rural areas, especially at night. Those planning to travel with their own vehicle will find it straightforward with a petrol or diesel car. Currently, North Macedonia is not yet equipped for electric or hydrogen vehicles.
► For more detailed preparation for your journey, you can find additional information about the toll regulations in North Macedonia here.