Bulgaria Theory Test E study materials
Bulgaria Theory Test E study resources

Bulgaria Theory Test E cheat sheet

Bulgaria Theory Test E · Keep the key ideas within reach.

Quick reference

Traffic Rules and Road Signs

  • Bulgarian road signs follow the Vienna Convention categories: warning (red-bordered triangles), priority, prohibitory (red circles), mandatory (blue circles), information, and service signs.

  • Default urban speed limit in Bulgaria is 50 km/h; outside built-up areas 90 km/h; on motorways 140 km/h; expressways (скоростни пътища) 120 km/h.

  • Minimum driving age for category B is 18; a learner may drive only accompanied by a qualified instructor in a registered training vehicle.

  • Right-hand traffic; at unmarked equal-priority junctions the vehicle approaching from the right has priority unless signs or markings state otherwise.

  • A solid white centre line may not be crossed; a broken line may be crossed when overtaking is safe and permitted.

  • Warning triangles are placed at least 30 m behind the vehicle in built-up areas and at least 100 m outside built-up areas.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers; children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm must use an approved child restraint.

  • Traffic light sequence: red, red+amber, green, amber, red; a flashing amber light means proceed with caution, giving way as required.

Quick reference

Vehicle Coupling, Towing and Combination Safety

  • Category B permits towing a trailer with a maximum authorised mass not exceeding 750 kg; above that, the combined mass must not exceed 3500 kg (B96 or BE extends this).

  • The tow ball vertical load must stay within the manufacturer's limit and never exceed the trailer's rated drawbar load; overload causes instability and tyre failure.

  • Safety: the coupling must be locked and secured with a secondary connection (breakaway cable or safety chain) attached to a fixed point on the towing vehicle.

  • Trailer brakes: trailers over 750 kg require an overrun or service brake; the breakaway cable must apply the trailer brake if separation occurs.

  • Lighting: the trailer must display rear position lamps, stop lamps, direction indicators, rear fog lamp, and a rear registration-plate lamp connected to the towing vehicle.

  • Speed with a trailer is limited to 80 km/h on motorways and expressways and 70 km/h on other roads outside built-up areas unless lower signs apply.

  • Load distribution: keep the centre of gravity low and slightly forward of the axle; nose weight around 5-7% of trailer mass improves stability.

  • Reversing with a trailer: steer the towing vehicle's wheel opposite to the desired trailer direction; use an observer when visibility is limited.

Quick reference

Driving Techniques and Road Behaviour

  • Safe following distance: at least 2 seconds in dry conditions, 3 seconds in rain, and 4 or more on ice or snow; double the gap when towing.

  • Braking distance grows with the square of speed: doubling speed roughly quadruples stopping distance (reaction distance plus braking distance).

  • Aquaplaning occurs when water depth exceeds tread drainage; ease off the accelerator, hold the wheel steady, and avoid sudden braking.

  • Overtaking is prohibited at pedestrian crossings, on bridges, in tunnels, at level crossings, and where a solid line or no-overtaking sign applies.

  • On steep descents use a lower gear for engine braking; continuous use of the service brake can cause fade from overheating.

  • In fog use dipped headlights and rear fog lamps only when visibility is below 50 m; switch rear fog lamps off when visibility improves.

  • At night, dip headlights when meeting oncoming traffic and when following another vehicle closely to avoid dazzling other drivers.

  • Emergency vehicles with blue flashing lights and sirens have priority; drivers must slow, pull over, and clear the way.

Quick reference

First Aid and Emergency Response

  • Scene safety first: switch off the ignition, apply the handbrake, place the warning triangle, and wear a high-visibility vest before approaching casualties.

  • Emergency number in Bulgaria and the EU is 112; report location, number of casualties, hazards, and injuries clearly.

  • Check responsiveness (AVPU) and breathing; if unresponsive and not breathing normally, start chest compressions at 100-120 per minute, 5-6 cm deep.

  • Do not remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless breathing is obstructed; support the head and neck and wait for trained help.

  • Severe bleeding: apply direct pressure with a clean dressing and elevate the limb; use a tourniquet only for life-threatening limb bleeding.

  • Do not move an injured person with suspected spinal injury unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic.

  • Burns: cool with clean cool water for at least 10-20 minutes; do not remove clothing stuck to the burn or apply ointments.

  • Recovery position for an unconscious but breathing casualty keeps the airway open and allows fluids to drain.

Quick reference

Vehicle Technical Knowledge and Maintenance

  • Tyre tread depth minimum is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread; check pressures cold and adjust for load.

  • Engine oil level is checked with the dipstick on a level surface with the engine off and cool; keep between min and max marks.

  • Brake fluid is hygroscopic; replace per manufacturer interval (typically every 2 years) and never top up with a different grade.

  • Coolant level is checked when cold; never open a hot pressurised radiator cap because of scalding risk.

  • Dashboard warning lamps: red means stop immediately (oil pressure, brakes, coolant), amber means check soon, green/blue indicates a function active.

  • Legal minimum tyre tread and lighting must be maintained; faulty lights, brakes, or steering make the vehicle unroadworthy.

  • Battery terminals should be clean and tight; a whining or clicking on start may indicate a discharged battery or faulty starter.

  • Emissions and roadworthiness inspections (технически преглед) are periodic and required for lawful road use.

Quick reference

Traffic Law, Documentation and Penalties

  • Documents to carry: valid driving licence, vehicle registration certificate, compulsory third-party liability insurance (Гражданска отговорност), and MOT certificate.

  • Driving licence categories: AM (mopeds), A1/A2/A (motorcycles by power), B (cars up to 3500 kg), C (lorries), D (buses), with age minimums per category.

  • Bulgarian penalty points system (талон): points are added for offences; reaching the limit suspends driving privileges.

  • Alcohol limit for drivers is 0.5 g/l blood alcohol; for novice drivers and professional drivers the limit is 0.0 g/l.

  • Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited; hands-free devices are permitted.

  • Failure to give way, running a red light, and speeding are among the most heavily penalised offences; fines and licence withdrawal may apply.

  • The registration certificate must match the vehicle's identification number (VIN) and owner details; notify authorities of ownership changes.

  • Insurance is compulsory; driving without valid third-party liability insurance is an offence with fines and possible vehicle immobilisation.

Quick reference

Environmental Protection and Fuel Efficiency

  • Smooth acceleration and early upshifting reduce fuel consumption; keeping engine speed low in the economical band saves fuel.

  • Anticipatory driving (looking far ahead, easing off the accelerator early) reduces braking and fuel waste.

  • Unnecessary idling wastes fuel and increases emissions; switch off the engine when stationary for extended periods where permitted.

  • Correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance; under-inflated tyres increase fuel use and wear.

  • Remove unnecessary roof racks and heavy loads to cut aerodynamic drag and weight-related fuel consumption.

  • Air conditioning increases fuel consumption; use ventilation at low speeds and air conditioning at high speeds.

  • Regular servicing (air filter, spark plugs, oil) keeps the engine efficient and lowers emissions.

  • Catalytic converters and particulate filters reduce harmful emissions; never remove or tamper with emission-control systems.

Quick reference

Traffic Law, Documentation and Penalties (Extended)

  • Category B minimum age is 18; category A minimum is 24 unless progressive A2 access applies; AM and A1 allow younger riders.

  • Novice drivers (first two years after passing) face stricter limits including a 0.0 g/l alcohol limit and lower penalty thresholds.

  • Driving licence validity: category B typically valid 10 years until age 50, then shorter renewal periods; renew before expiry.

  • Vehicle registration and insurance must be kept current; expired documents lead to fines and possible removal from traffic.

  • Penalty points accumulate for serious offences; a driver may be required to retake the theory and practical exams after suspension.

  • Traffic accident obligations: stop, secure the scene, render first aid, and report to police (112) when there are injuries or significant damage.

  • Third-party liability insurance covers damage to others; comprehensive (каско) is optional and covers the insured vehicle.

  • Driving without a valid licence, insurance, or MOT is an offence with fines, licence withdrawal, and possible vehicle seizure.

Quick reference

Traffic Rules and Road Signs (Extended)

  • Pedestrian crossings: drivers must give way to pedestrians on or about to enter the crossing; overtaking at crossings is prohibited.

  • Roundabouts: give way to traffic already circulating unless signs indicate otherwise; use the correct lane and signal on exit.

  • Level crossings: stop when the barrier is down or lights flash; never overtake or change gear on the crossing.

  • Bus and tram stops: give way to public transport pulling out where signs require it and do not stop within the marked area.

  • Solid yellow lines and no-stopping signs prohibit stopping; broken yellow lines restrict parking.

  • Motorway rules: no pedestrians, bicycles, or slow vehicles; use the right lane unless overtaking; emergency lane only for emergencies.

  • Direction indicators must be used before turning, changing lanes, or leaving a roundabout, and cancelled after the manoeuvre.

  • Priority signs: STOP requires a full stop; give-way (yield) requires yielding to traffic on the priority road without necessarily stopping.

Quick reference

Driving Techniques and Road Behaviour (Extended)

  • Cornering: slow before the bend, maintain a steady speed through it, and accelerate gently on exit; avoid braking mid-corner.

  • Skidding: ease off the accelerator, steer in the direction of the skid, and avoid harsh braking; ABS helps maintain steering control.

  • ABS operation: keep firm continuous pressure on the brake pedal; do not pump the pedal, as ABS modulates pressure automatically.

  • Hill starts: use the handbrake or hill-hold assist, engage the clutch biting point, and release the handbrake as the vehicle pulls.

  • Motorway joining: use the acceleration lane to match speed, signal, and merge into a safe gap without forcing other drivers to brake.

  • Tunnel driving: switch on dipped headlights, keep a safe gap, and do not stop or reverse inside a tunnel.

  • Following a large vehicle: stay back to maintain visibility and avoid the blind spot; overtake promptly when safe.

  • Fatigue: take a break at least every 2 hours; symptoms include yawning, drifting, and heavy eyelids, which require stopping.

Quick reference

First Aid and Emergency Response (Extended)

  • CPR ratio for adults is 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths; if untrained, perform continuous chest compressions (hands-only CPR).

  • Choking: encourage coughing; if ineffective, give up to 5 back blows then up to 5 abdominal thrusts, alternating.

  • Shock signs: pale clammy skin, rapid weak pulse, confusion; lay the casualty down, keep warm, and do not give food or drink.

  • Fractures: immobilise the limb in the position found and support it; do not attempt to straighten a deformed limb.

  • Burns from vehicle fires: cool with water, cover with a clean non-stick dressing, and seek medical help.

  • Recovery position is used for unconscious but breathing casualties; monitor breathing continuously until help arrives.

  • Motorcyclists: do not remove the helmet unless the airway is obstructed; support the head and neck and wait for trained help.

  • Reporting: give the exact location, number of casualties, hazards, and injuries; stay on the line until told to hang up.

Quick reference

Vehicle Technical Knowledge and Maintenance (Extended)

  • Tyre tread minimum 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters; replace tyres showing cracks, bulges, or exposed cords.

  • Check engine oil with the dipstick on level ground with the engine off; keep between min and max marks and use the specified grade.

  • Brake fluid absorbs moisture; replace per manufacturer interval (often every 2 years) and never mix different grades.

  • Coolant is checked cold; never open a hot pressurised cap because of scalding risk.

  • Dashboard warning lamps: red means stop immediately (oil pressure, brakes, coolant), amber means check soon, green/blue means a function is active.

  • Battery terminals should be clean and tight; clicking or slow cranking on start may indicate a discharged battery or faulty starter.

  • Lighting must be functional and correctly aimed; faulty lights, brakes, or steering make the vehicle unroadworthy.

  • Periodic roadworthiness inspection (технически преглед) is required for lawful road use and checks brakes, emissions, and lights.

Quick reference

Environmental Protection and Fuel Efficiency (Extended)

  • Anticipatory driving (looking far ahead, easing off the accelerator early) reduces braking and fuel waste.

  • Correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance; under-inflated tyres increase fuel use and wear.

  • Remove roof racks and heavy loads to cut aerodynamic drag and weight-related fuel consumption.

  • Air conditioning increases fuel consumption; use ventilation at low speeds and air conditioning at high speeds.

  • Regular servicing (air filter, spark plugs, oil) keeps the engine efficient and lowers emissions.

  • Catalytic converters and particulate filters reduce harmful emissions; never remove or tamper with emission-control systems.

  • Smooth acceleration and early upshifting keep engine speed low in the economical band and save fuel.

  • Unnecessary idling wastes fuel and increases emissions; switch off the engine when stationary for extended periods where permitted.

Quick reference

Traffic Law, Documentation and Penalties (Further)

  • Documents to carry: valid driving licence, vehicle registration certificate, compulsory third-party liability insurance, and MOT certificate.

  • Alcohol limit for drivers is 0.5 g/l blood alcohol; for novice and professional drivers the limit is 0.0 g/l.

  • Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited; hands-free devices are permitted.

  • Failure to give way, running a red light, and speeding are among the most heavily penalised offences.

  • Penalty points accumulate for serious offences; a driver may be required to retake theory and practical exams after suspension.

  • Traffic accident obligations: stop, secure the scene, render first aid, and report to police (112) when there are injuries or significant damage.

  • Third-party liability insurance covers damage to others; comprehensive (каско) is optional and covers the insured vehicle.

  • Driving without a valid licence, insurance, or MOT is an offence with fines, licence withdrawal, and possible vehicle seizure.

Quick reference

Traffic Rules and Road Signs (Further)

  • Default urban speed limit in Bulgaria is 50 km/h; outside built-up areas 90 km/h; on motorways 140 km/h; expressways 120 km/h.

  • Right-hand traffic; at unmarked equal-priority junctions the vehicle approaching from the right has priority unless signs state otherwise.

  • A solid white centre line may not be crossed; a broken line may be crossed when overtaking is safe and permitted.

  • Warning triangles are placed at least 30 m behind the vehicle in built-up areas and at least 100 m outside built-up areas.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers; children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm must use an approved child restraint.

  • Traffic light sequence: red, red+amber, green, amber, red; a flashing amber light means proceed with caution, giving way as required.

  • Pedestrian crossings: drivers must give way to pedestrians on or about to enter the crossing; overtaking at crossings is prohibited.

  • Roundabouts: give way to traffic already circulating unless signs indicate otherwise; use the correct lane and signal on exit.

Quick reference

Driving Techniques and Road Behaviour (Further)

  • Safe following distance: at least 2 seconds in dry conditions, 3 seconds in rain, and 4 or more on ice or snow; double the gap when towing.

  • Braking distance grows with the square of speed: doubling speed roughly quadruples stopping distance.

  • Aquaplaning occurs when water depth exceeds tread drainage; ease off the accelerator, hold the wheel steady, and avoid sudden braking.

  • Overtaking is prohibited at pedestrian crossings, on bridges, in tunnels, at level crossings, and where a solid line or no-overtaking sign applies.

  • On steep descents use a lower gear for engine braking; continuous use of the service brake can cause fade from overheating.

  • In fog use dipped headlights and rear fog lamps only when visibility is below 50 m; switch rear fog lamps off when visibility improves.

  • At night, dip headlights when meeting oncoming traffic and when following another vehicle closely to avoid dazzling other drivers.

  • Emergency vehicles with blue flashing lights and sirens have priority; drivers must slow, pull over, and clear the way.

Quick reference

First Aid and Emergency Response (Further)

  • Scene safety first: switch off the ignition, apply the handbrake, place the warning triangle, and wear a high-visibility vest before approaching casualties.

  • Emergency number in Bulgaria and the EU is 112; report location, number of casualties, hazards, and injuries clearly.

  • Check responsiveness and breathing; if unresponsive and not breathing normally, start chest compressions at 100-120 per minute, 5-6 cm deep.

  • Do not remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless breathing is obstructed; support the head and neck and wait for trained help.

  • Severe bleeding: apply direct pressure with a clean dressing and elevate the limb; use a tourniquet only for life-threatening limb bleeding.

  • Do not move an injured person with suspected spinal injury unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic.

  • Burns: cool with clean cool water for at least 10-20 minutes; do not remove clothing stuck to the burn or apply ointments.

  • Recovery position for an unconscious but breathing casualty keeps the airway open and allows fluids to drain.

Quick reference

Vehicle Technical Knowledge and Maintenance (Further)

  • Tyre tread depth minimum is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread; check pressures cold and adjust for load.

  • Engine oil level is checked with the dipstick on a level surface with the engine off and cool; keep between min and max marks.

  • Brake fluid is hygroscopic; replace per manufacturer interval (typically every 2 years) and never top up with a different grade.

  • Coolant level is checked when cold; never open a hot pressurised radiator cap because of scalding risk.

  • Dashboard warning lamps: red means stop immediately, amber means check soon, green/blue indicates a function active.

  • Legal minimum tyre tread and lighting must be maintained; faulty lights, brakes, or steering make the vehicle unroadworthy.

  • Battery terminals should be clean and tight; a whining or clicking on start may indicate a discharged battery or faulty starter.

  • Emissions and roadworthiness inspections (технически преглед) are periodic and required for lawful road use.

Quick reference

Environmental Protection and Fuel Efficiency (Further)

  • Smooth acceleration and early upshifting reduce fuel consumption; keeping engine speed low in the economical band saves fuel.

  • Anticipatory driving (looking far ahead, easing off the accelerator early) reduces braking and fuel waste.

  • Unnecessary idling wastes fuel and increases emissions; switch off the engine when stationary for extended periods where permitted.

  • Correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance; under-inflated tyres increase fuel use and wear.

  • Remove unnecessary roof racks and heavy loads to cut aerodynamic drag and weight-related fuel consumption.

  • Air conditioning increases fuel consumption; use ventilation at low speeds and air conditioning at high speeds.

  • Regular servicing (air filter, spark plugs, oil) keeps the engine efficient and lowers emissions.

  • Catalytic converters and particulate filters reduce harmful emissions; never remove or tamper with emission-control systems.

Quick reference

Traffic Law, Documentation and Penalties (Final)

  • Category B minimum age is 18; category A minimum is 24 unless progressive A2 access applies; AM and A1 allow younger riders.

  • Novice drivers (first two years after passing) face stricter limits including a 0.0 g/l alcohol limit and lower penalty thresholds.

  • Driving licence validity: category B typically valid 10 years until age 50, then shorter renewal periods; renew before expiry.

  • Vehicle registration and insurance must be kept current; expired documents lead to fines and possible removal from traffic.

  • Penalty points accumulate for serious offences; a driver may be required to retake the theory and practical exams after suspension.

  • Traffic accident obligations: stop, secure the scene, render first aid, and report to police (112) when there are injuries or significant damage.

  • Third-party liability insurance covers damage to others; comprehensive (каско) is optional and covers the insured vehicle.

  • Driving without a valid licence, insurance, or MOT is an offence with fines, licence withdrawal, and possible vehicle seizure.

Quick reference

Traffic Rules and Road Signs (Final)

  • Bulgarian road signs follow the Vienna Convention categories: warning, priority, prohibitory, mandatory, information, and service signs.

  • Default urban speed limit in Bulgaria is 50 km/h; outside built-up areas 90 km/h; on motorways 140 km/h; expressways 120 km/h.

  • Minimum driving age for category B is 18; a learner may drive only accompanied by a qualified instructor in a registered training vehicle.

  • Right-hand traffic; at unmarked equal-priority junctions the vehicle approaching from the right has priority unless signs or markings state otherwise.

  • A solid white centre line may not be crossed; a broken line may be crossed when overtaking is safe and permitted.

  • Warning triangles are placed at least 30 m behind the vehicle in built-up areas and at least 100 m outside built-up areas.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers; children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm must use an approved child restraint.

  • Traffic light sequence: red, red+amber, green, amber, red; a flashing amber light means proceed with caution, giving way as required.

Quick reference

Vehicle Coupling, Towing and Combination Safety (Extended)

  • Category B permits towing a trailer with a maximum authorised mass not exceeding 750 kg; above that, the combined mass must not exceed 3500 kg (B96 or BE extends this).

  • The tow ball vertical load must stay within the manufacturer's limit and never exceed the trailer's rated drawbar load; overload causes instability and tyre failure.

  • Safety: the coupling must be locked and secured with a secondary connection (breakaway cable or safety chain) attached to a fixed point on the towing vehicle.

  • Trailer brakes: trailers over 750 kg require an overrun or service brake; the breakaway cable must apply the trailer brake if separation occurs.

  • Lighting: the trailer must display rear position lamps, stop lamps, direction indicators, rear fog lamp, and a rear registration-plate lamp connected to the towing vehicle.

  • Speed with a trailer is limited to 80 km/h on motorways and expressways and 70 km/h on other roads outside built-up areas unless lower signs apply.

  • Load distribution: keep the centre of gravity low and slightly forward of the axle; nose weight around 5-7% of trailer mass improves stability.

  • Reversing with a trailer: steer the towing vehicle's wheel opposite to the desired trailer direction; use an observer when visibility is limited.

Quick reference

Driving Techniques and Road Behaviour (Final)

  • Safe following distance: at least 2 seconds in dry conditions, 3 seconds in rain, and 4 or more on ice or snow; double the gap when towing.

  • Braking distance grows with the square of speed: doubling speed roughly quadruples stopping distance.

  • Aquaplaning occurs when water depth exceeds tread drainage; ease off the accelerator, hold the wheel steady, and avoid sudden braking.

  • Overtaking is prohibited at pedestrian crossings, on bridges, in tunnels, at level crossings, and where a solid line or no-overtaking sign applies.

  • On steep descents use a lower gear for engine braking; continuous use of the service brake can cause fade from overheating.

  • In fog use dipped headlights and rear fog lamps only when visibility is below 50 m; switch rear fog lamps off when visibility improves.

  • At night, dip headlights when meeting oncoming traffic and when following another vehicle closely to avoid dazzling other drivers.

  • Emergency vehicles with blue flashing lights and sirens have priority; drivers must slow, pull over, and clear the way.

Quick reference

First Aid and Emergency Response (Final)

  • Scene safety first: switch off the ignition, apply the handbrake, place the warning triangle, and wear a high-visibility vest before approaching casualties.

  • Emergency number in Bulgaria and the EU is 112; report location, number of casualties, hazards, and injuries clearly.

  • Check responsiveness and breathing; if unresponsive and not breathing normally, start chest compressions at 100-120 per minute, 5-6 cm deep.

  • Do not remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless breathing is obstructed; support the head and neck and wait for trained help.

  • Severe bleeding: apply direct pressure with a clean dressing and elevate the limb; use a tourniquet only for life-threatening limb bleeding.

  • Do not move an injured person with suspected spinal injury unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic.

  • Burns: cool with clean cool water for at least 10-20 minutes; do not remove clothing stuck to the burn or apply ointments.

  • Recovery position for an unconscious but breathing casualty keeps the airway open and allows fluids to drain.