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