Driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Rules, Tolls and Speed Limits

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most rewarding countries in the Balkans to explore by car. Mountain roads, river canyons and historic towns are often just a short drive apart, and having your own wheels gives you the freedom to stop wherever the view demands it. If you are planning to rent a car in Sarajevo, it helps to know the local rules before you set off. Below is a practical overview based on the rules in force at the time of writing. Regulations can change, so please check current rules before you travel.

The basics: what to expect on the road

Traffic drives on the right and overtakes on the left, as in most of Europe. A few rules surprise first-time visitors:

• Dipped headlights are mandatory at all times, day and night, all year round.
• Seat belts must be worn by everyone in the car, front and back.
• Children under 12 may not sit in the front seat and must use a child seat or booster suited to their age and size.
• Handheld phones are not allowed while driving. Use a hands-free system if you need to take a call.

Police checks are common, both in towns and on open roads. Always carry your driving licence, passport or ID, and the vehicle documents. Fines for many offences can be issued on the spot.

Speed limits and alcohol

Unless signs say otherwise, the general speed limits are:

• 50 km/h in built-up areas
• 80 km/h on roads outside built-up areas
• 100 km/h on expressways
• 130 km/h on motorways

Limits are often lower on winding mountain roads and near schools, so keep an eye on the signs. Speed cameras and mobile radar are used regularly.

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.3‰ for most drivers. For new and young drivers, as well as professional drivers, the limit is 0.0‰. The simplest rule is not to drink at all if you are driving.

Motorway tolls

The main toll road is the A1 motorway, part of the Pan-European Corridor Vc, which runs through the Sarajevo area. Tolls are collected at toll booths, and at the time of writing you can usually pay in convertible marks (BAM), euros or by card. Frequent users can get an ENC electronic toll device, but most visitors simply pay at the booth. Keep some cash handy just in case. Most other roads in the country are toll-free.

Winter driving and mandatory equipment

From 15 November to 15 April, winter equipment is mandatory. That means winter tyres, and in some conditions snow chains as well. Mountain passes can change quickly, so check the weather and road reports before longer trips.

Every car must also carry a warning triangle, a first aid kit, a reflective vest, spare bulbs and a tow rope. When you collect your car at our Sarajevo airport location, take a moment to confirm that the kit is in the boot.

Parking in Sarajevo

Parking in central Sarajevo is organised into zones, with different rates and time limits. You can typically pay at parking machines or by SMS using a local number shown on the zone signs. Avoid parking on pavements or in marked no-parking areas, as cars can be towed.

Ready to hit the road? Browse our fleet to find a car that suits your trip. Car rental at Sarajevo airport is the easiest way to start exploring the country the moment you land.