Driving to Greece by Car: What You Need to Know for a Stress-Free Trip in 2025.
A road trip to Greece brings a sense of freedom—but also responsibilities, especially when crossing borders. Prepare ahead to avoid stress on the road!
If your car passes through North Macedonia, make sure to bring:
A valid passport – it must be valid for at least 3 months after your return date. No passport, no crossing.
Driver’s license and vehicle registration certificate – even if you’re not the owner.
Green Card (International Motor Insurance Certificate) – required through North Macedonia (approx. 2,000 RSD). You can also buy it at the border (~50 EUR).
International driving permit (“yellow card”) – needed if the vehicle isn’t registered in your name (~1,500 RSD).
Fire extinguisher – minimum 2 kg, labeled S‑2.
Travel health insurance – not mandatory, but strongly recommended.
Parental consent – required if a child under 16 is traveling with one parent or another adult.
If you miss any of these, there are solutions—Green Cards can be purchased on the spot, and documents can be issued at AMSS centers in places like Velika Plana or Pojate.
If you drive through Bulgaria, keep in mind:
Passport, license, and registration – the same rules apply.
Green Card – not required in Bulgaria.
Yellow card – still needed if the car isn’t registered to you.
Fire extinguisher, travel insurance, and parental consent – also required here.
Bulgarian vignette – must be purchased in advance online or at the border. There are no conventional toll booths on highways.
Once you enter Greece, some additional rules and equipment are in effect:
Green Card – not required inside Greece.
European accident report form – useful to have in case of an accident.
Spare prescription glasses – mandatory if your driver’s license photo shows you wearing glasses.
Winter tires or chains – mandatory between October 1st and April 1st due to mountainous regions and weather conditions.
Be aware of stricter fines abroad:
In North Macedonia, alcohol, speeding, failing to use a seatbelt, or using a phone while driving can cost between €20 and €400.
In Bulgaria, similar violations lead to fines ranging from €25 to €255.
In Greece, speeding and seatbelt violations can result in fines of up to €700. Smoking with children in the car can bring fines up to €1,500 and potential license suspension.
In Greece, speed cameras are common near borders and along highways. Note that the discount for quick payments has been removed—best to obey the speed limits.
Apart from documents, consider carrying the following:
Reflective vest, warning triangle, first aid kit, spare tire, and basic tool kit – all required in the car.
Copies of important documents like passport, driver’s license, and Green Card – store separately from originals.
Travel insurance – even though it can be claimed afterward, it’s best to arrange it before departure.
The scenery through North Macedonia and Bulgaria is beautiful—plan a stop and enjoy the view.
Use toll/vignette apps like “BGToll” before starting your journey.
Once in Greece, switch to a local SIM card and GPS for easier navigation.
