Guide

This content reflects my personal experience and perspective. Please check for current accuracy, as your situation may differ.

Getting My Driver's License in Bulgaria

MaximMaxim
August 29, 2025
3 min read
Driver's licenseBulgariaDriving schoolEnglish exam

Getting my Bulgarian driver's license was quite annoying, and I wanted to share my experience at Start07 driving school in Burgas to help others with the process. If you're not Bulgarian, the good news is that you can take the theory lessons and exam in English; the bad news is that almost everything else is in Bulgarian.

Getting My Driver's License in Bulgaria image 1

Infront of the train station

Getting My Driver's License in Bulgaria image 2

From one of driving lessons in Burgas

Terminal south

Терминал юг

Quick Overview

Costs: Depending many factors, the total cost can vary. In total you can expect to pay around 1500-2000 лв until you have your license in hand. (in 2025)
Duration: Several months depending on scheduling
Can be done in English: Theory exam only

School Information & Registration

Start07 Driving School
Burgas Center, bul. "Demokratsia" 82, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria
View on Google Maps
Official Website

What to bring for registration:
• Your лична карта (Bulgarian ID card)

Theory Phase

Theory Lessons
In my case, there were three theory sessions at the driving school. They were helpful and covered important basics, but that definitely wasn't enough. You still need to study a lot by yourself to pass the theory test.

Important timing: You don't need to pass the theory exam before starting driving lessons, but you must pass it before your practical exam. At least that's how I understood it

Study Resources:
The best and official resource you can use is avtoizpit.com - it has practice tests that basically simulate the real exam. More infos about study resources here

Theory Exam Process

  • Step 1: Take a practice test at the driving school first
  • Step 2: If you pass, you'll get an appointment for the official exam at a different location
  • Exam: 45 questions, 40 minutes, can be taken in English (but afaik only if you took the theory lessons in english)

Practical Driving Phase

Driving Lessons
You'll receive contact information for your driving instructor. The course includes 31 units of 40 minutes each, typically scheduled as double sessions.

Practical Exam
Duration: Approximately 25 minutes
Route: Only within Burgas city (not on country roads due to time constraints)
Passing criteria: Maximum 10 error points allowed

Additional Requirements

Beyond the driving school requirements, you'll need to complete these before your practical exam:

  • First Aid Course - I had to do it in Bulgarian and there was even a small test at the end of it → Detailed guide
  • Certified school certificate/diploma - Needs official authentication → How to get it certified
  • Medical examination - To confirm you're alright or smth

Tips from My Experience

  • Start the additional requirements (first aid, certificate) early because they can take some time
  • Use avtoizpit.com extensively for theory practice
  • The theory exam is straightforward if you prepare well

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