If you are planning on driving in Albania, you might want to do some research before embarking on a road trip. We rounded up some of the rules and regulations, speed limits, and additional information you might want to know before you go.
Rules and Regulations
- You must be at least 18 years of age to drive in Albania.
- In Albania, driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
- Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seat belt.
- Mobile phones can be used while driving, but only with a hands-free set. Third-party insurance is required.
- Drunk driving is prohibited and the legal blood alcohol level is 0.01 mg/ml. Please make sure that you are aware of all the road regulations before you start your trip to Albania.
Speed Limits
These are the general standard legal speed limits in Albania. Changes will be signposted.
| Within city limits | 50 kph (31 mph) |
| Outside city limits | 90 kph (56 mph) |
| Motorways | 110 kph (68 mph) |
What to Bring Along
- An International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Car insurance documents
- Spare bulbs for your car’s external lights
- Fire extinguisher and first aid kit
- Warning triangle in case you break down
- A basic emergency repair kit will be useful because there is no roadside assistance service in Albania. These should include a jack, spare tire, fan belts, and wiper blades.
- A mobile phone in case of an emergency.
Additional Information
- When driving in Albania always be extra careful as roads are not in very good condition and power cuts happen frequently. There is also the possibility of flash flooding throughout the year and there are only usually street lights in built-up areas and major roads. Because of this, you might want to consider renting an SUV when driving in Albania.
- If you are ever involved in a road accident you must wait until the police arrive.
- Some Albanian drivers can drive and behave aggressively and erratically so drive with caution and don’t react to others’ behavior.
- There are no toll roads in Albania.
- In case of emergency call 129.
- Border control points can be busy on weekends and during the summer.
- Gas stations in Albania are open from 8 am to 8 pm in the major cities.
- SIXT has branches in 6 cities in Albania, including at the Tirana Airport.
