Driving in Serbia as a Foreigner: Everything You Need to Know

The good news is that yes, you can drive in Serbia as a foreigner! If you have a valid driver’s license from your home country and it is not suspended or expired, you are allowed to drive in Serbia. However, it’s always advisable to get an international driver's license before arriving, especially if you plan to travel outside Serbia into neighboring EU countries. While it’s not mandatory in Serbia, having one can help ease any potential issues at border crossings. It’s easy to get an international driver’s license for around $75, and it’s typically valid for one year.

If you plan to stay in Serbia for more than six months, Serbian law requires that you exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Serbian one. At Relocation Serbia, we assist with this process, ensuring that all paperwork, including translations, is handled correctly. Depending on your country of origin, you may need to take a driving test or only submit the necessary documents for approval.

Driving in Serbia can be a unique experience for newcomers. Here are a few key points to help you stay safe:

• Driving Side: In Serbia, we drive on the right side of the road, similar to most European countries.
  
  
• Speed Limits: In cities, the speed limit is typically 50-60 km/h, while on regional roads, it’s around 80 km/h. On highways, the limit is 120-130 km/h. However, expect to see locals driving faster than the posted limits, so it’s important to keep up with the flow of traffic.
  
  
• Seatbelts and Alcohol: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and there is a zero tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Make sure to adhere to these regulations to avoid fines.
  
  
• Signage: Road signs are in Serbian, and you may encounter them in either Cyrillic or Latin scripts. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with these or use a GPS to navigate more easily.

When you bring your car into Serbia, you’ll need to ensure it meets local requirements:

1. Car Insurance: It’s mandatory to obtain car insurance in Serbia. The cost depends on factors like engine size, type (gas, diesel, hybrid), and vehicle age. Expect to pay anywhere from €500 to €1,000 annually depending on your vehicle.
   
   
2. Technical Inspection: Every vehicle must undergo an annual technical inspection to ensure it’s roadworthy. This includes a thorough check of your car’s safety systems, emissions, and overall condition. The inspection can cost around €300, but it ensures that your vehicle remains compliant with Serbian standards.

If you’re purchasing a new or used car in Serbia, or bringing your own, you’ll need to follow these steps to get your vehicle properly registered:

• Ownership Proof: You must provide a sales contract or proof of ownership for the vehicle.
  
  
• Insurance: As mentioned, you’ll need to secure local car insurance based on your vehicle type.
  
  
• Police Registration: Once your car passes the technical inspection, you’ll visit the local police station with all the necessary documents for registration. This is where you’ll pay for the registration and obtain your license plates.

Carry Required Documents: Always have your driver’s license, international driver’s license (if applicable), car insurance, and vehicle registration with you. Police in Serbia have the right to conduct random checks, so it’s important to be prepared.

Toll Roads: Serbia has toll roads on major highways. The toll fees are reasonable, with a trip from Belgrade to Novi Sad costing around €4.50.

Rural Roads: Serbia’s countryside roads can be narrow and winding, so always stay vigilant when driving outside the city. In some areas, you may need to pull over to allow another car to pass.

If you’re planning to purchase a car in Serbia, there are plenty of options available, from new cars to used vehicles. Serbian real estate services often partner with Serbia relocation companies to provide comprehensive relocation support services, including assistance with purchasing a car.

For families moving to Serbia, it’s important to plan your transportation needs. While public transportation is efficient in cities like Belgrade, having a car can make traveling easier, especially if you plan to explore the countryside or have a family to transport. Whether you’re moving to Serbia for work, retirement, or family reasons, our Serbia relocation specialists can assist with everything from car registration to finding the right vehicle.

We help client with flights, car rentals, stays and experiences by booking everything the Ardor Travels.