New Road Traffic Law Amendments Published: Higher Fines and Toll Camera Enforcement Begin
The long-anticipated amendments to the Bulgarian Road Traffic Act have officially been published in issue 64 of the State Gazette. The new law, passed by the 51st National Assembly on July 23, 2025, and signed by President Rumen Radev, introduces stricter penalties for traffic violations and expanded surveillance through the toll camera system.
Under the new provisions, drivers exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h outside populated areas will face a fine of 600 BGN and a mandatory two-month suspension of their driver’s license. The maximum permitted speed limits remain largely unchanged:
140 km/h on highways
120 km/h on expressways
90 km/h on interurban roads
50 km/h within cities and towns
However, new low-speed zones of 20 and 30 km/h are being introduced in residential areas, particularly near schools, kindergartens, and playgrounds. These zones aim to reduce the risk of accidents in vulnerable areas and create safer environments for children and pedestrians.
A major change involves the implementation of average speed checks through the national toll system. Selected highway sections equipped with cameras will now calculate the time it takes a vehicle to travel between two points. If a driver’s average speed exceeds the legal limit, an electronic fine will be automatically issued.
In addition to speeding penalties, several other fines have been increased:
Driving without carrying the required documents now carries a fine of 30 BGN, up from the previous 10 BGN.
Running a red light or failing to stop at a pedestrian crossing will now result in a 150 BGN fine.
The law also introduces a new requirement tied to technical inspections: a vehicle cannot pass its mandatory roadworthiness check if the owner has unpaid fines or traffic citations. This aims to strengthen enforcement and ensure that repeat offenders settle their penalties before continuing to drive legally.
For electric scooter users, daytime-only operation is now mandatory, and scooters must be registered with the municipal administration of the city or town in which they are used. This is intended to improve accountability and safety, especially in urban settings where scooter use has significantly increased.
The changes reflect a broader national strategy to reduce traffic accidents, increase road safety, and modernize enforcement mechanisms through the use of technology and tougher consequences for non-compliance.
Authorities urge all drivers and road users to familiarize themselves with the new rules and remain vigilant on the roads as the revised law takes effect.
