Russia Car Driving: A Guide for Foreigners
Driving in Russia can be an exciting and rewarding experience for foreigners who want to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of the world's largest country. However, it can also be challenging and risky, as driving conditions, traffic rules, and road culture in Russia are quite different from those in many other countries. In this article, we will provide you with some useful information and tips on how to drive safely and legally in Russia, as well as some interesting facts and statistics about Russian roads and drivers.
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Who can drive in Russia?
Driving with a foreign license
If you are staying in Russia for less than six months, you can use your foreign license to drive a car in Russia, as long as you have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified Russian translation of your license. You can apply for an IDP in your home country before you travel, which provides a translation of your license into nine languages. You must carry both your foreign license and your IDP or translation with you whenever you drive in Russia.
Getting a Russian driving license
If you are moving to Russia as an official resident, you will need to exchange your foreign license for a Russian driving license within 60 days after receiving Russian residency. You will also need to meet the minimum legal driving ages as set out by Russian road law: 18 for cars and 16 for motorcycles. To apply for a Russian driving license, you will need to provide the following documents to your local State Road Traffic Safety Inspectorate (GIBDD):
Your passport and Russian visa
A medical certificate obtained from your doctor
Your foreign driving license and a photocopy of it signed by a notary
If your foreign license is valid, you will only need to take a Russian theory test. If it has expired, you will also have to pass a practical driving exam. Both tests are conducted in Russian only, so you will need to speak some Russian or have an interpreter with you.
Requirements for driving in Russia
Documents and gear
When driving in Russia, you must always have the following documents with you:
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Your driving license (foreign or Russian)
Your IDP or translation (if using a foreign license)
Your passport and visa
Your vehicle registration document or rental agreement
Your motor insurance certificate or green card with RUS code
You must also carry the following gear in your vehicle:
A warning triangle
A fire extinguisher
A first-aid kit
A reflective jacket
Headlamp converters (if your headlights cannot adjust to the right-hand side driving)
Road and car taxes
If you own a car in Russia, you will have to pay an annual road tax, which varies depending on the engine size and the region of registration. The average road tax in Russia is around 2,500 rubles ($35) per year. You will also have to pay a one-time car registration fee of 2,000 rubles ($28) when you buy a new or used car. If you rent a car in Russia, these taxes are usually included in the rental price.
Toll roads
Most roads in Russia are free to use, but there are some toll roads, especially around Moscow and St. Petersburg. The tolls are collected electronically via transponders or cameras that scan your license plate. You can pay online, by phone, or at designated kiosks. The toll rates depend on the distance, the type of vehicle, and the time of day. The average toll rate in Russia is around 4 rubles ($0.05) per kilometer. You can check the toll rates and locations of toll roads on the official website of Russian Highways.
Car insurance
Car insurance is mandatory in Russia for all drivers. There are two types of car insurance in Russia: compulsory third-party liability insurance (OSAGO) and voluntary comprehensive insurance (KASKO). OSAGO covers the damage you cause to other people or property in an accident, up to a limit of 400,000 rubles ($5,600) per claim. KASKO covers the damage to your own vehicle in an accident, theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters, up to the agreed value of your car. The cost of car insurance in Russia depends on various factors, such as your age, driving experience, vehicle type, and region. The average cost of OSAGO is around 5,000 rubles ($70) per year, while the average cost of KASKO is around 40,000 rubles ($560) per year. You can compare and buy car insurance online from various providers.
Vehicle inspections
If you own a car in Russia, you will have to pass a technical inspection every two years to ensure that your vehicle meets the safety and environmental standards. The inspection costs around 1,000 rubles ($14) and takes about an hour. You can book an appointment online or by phone at any authorized inspection center. You will need to bring the following documents with you:
Your passport and visa
Your vehicle registration document
Your motor insurance certificate or green card with RUS code
Your previous inspection certificate (if applicable)
If you pass the inspection, you will receive a sticker that you must display on your windshield. If you fail the inspection, you will have to fix the problems and re-take the inspection within 20 days.
Traffic rules in Russia
Driving on the right
Russia follows the right-hand side driving rule, which means that you drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left. You must also give way to traffic coming from your right at intersections and roundabouts. If you are used to driving on the left-hand side of the road, you may find it difficult to adjust to driving on the right-hand side of the road. Here are some tips to help you adapt:
Practice driving on quiet roads or parking lots before hitting the busy streets.
Use a GPS or a map app to guide you through unfamiliar routes and directions.
Pay attention to road signs and markings that indicate lane changes and turns.
Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and pedestrians.
Avoid driving at night or in bad weather conditions until you feel confident.
Speed limits
The speed limits in Russia vary depending on the type of road and the location. The general speed limits are as follows:
60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas
90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads
110 km/h (68 mph) on highways
However, these speed limits may change depending on the road conditions, traffic signs, and local regulations. For example, some highways may have a speed limit of 130 km/h (81 mph), while some urban areas may have a speed limit of 40 km/h (25 mph) or lower. You must always follow the speed limit signs and adjust your speed according to the weather, visibility, and traffic situation. Speeding is a common cause of accidents and fines in Russia, so be careful and vigilant when driving.
Seatbelts and mobile phones
Seatbelts are mandatory for all drivers and passengers in Russia. You must wear a seatbelt at all times when driving or riding in a car, regardless of the distance or speed. Failing to wear a seatbelt can result in a fine of 500 rubles ($7) per person. Children under 12 years old or under 150 cm (4 ft 11 in) tall must use a child restraint system appropriate for their age and size. Children under 7 years old or under 125 cm (4 ft 1 in) tall must sit in the back seat only.
Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited in Russia, unless you have a hands-free device. You must not hold, touch, or look at your phone while driving, even if you are stopped at a traffic light or in a traffic jam. Using a mobile phone while driving can distract you from the road and increase the risk of accidents and fines. If you need to make or receive a call or a message, you should pull over to a safe place and park your car before using your phone.
Right turns and left turns
In Russia, you can make a right turn at a red light, unless there is a sign that says otherwise. However, you must always yield to pedestrians and traffic coming from your left before making a right turn. You must also signal your intention to turn right by using your indicator or hand gesture.
Left turns are more complicated and restricted in Russia, especially in urban areas. You can only make a left turn at an intersection if there is a green arrow sign that indicates it. Otherwise, you must follow the traffic flow and use the designated U-turn lanes or roundabouts to make a left turn. You must also signal your intention to turn left by using your indicator or hand gesture.
Hitchhiking and picking up hitchhikers
Hitchhiking is legal but not very common in Russia, especially in big cities. Most people prefer to use public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing services to get around. However, some people may hitchhike in rural areas or remote regions where transportation options are limited or expensive. If you want to hitchhike in Russia, you should be prepared for long waits, language barriers, cultural differences, and safety risks. You should also carry some cash, water, food, warm clothes, and a map with you.
Picking up hitchhikers is also legal but not very popular in Russia, as most drivers are wary of strangers and potential scams or crimes. However, some drivers may offer rides to hitchhikers out of kindness, curiosity, or boredom. If you want to pick up hitchhikers in Russia, you should be cautious and respectful of their privacy and preferences. You should also ask for their destination and agree on the payment or exchange before letting them in your car.
Russian drivers and road conditions
Driving culture and etiquette
Russian drivers have a reputation for being aggressive, impatient, and reckless on the road. They often break the traffic rules, such as speeding, running red lights, changing lanes without signaling, tailgating, honking, flashing lights, and cutting off other drivers. They also tend to ignore pedestrians and cyclists, who have little respect or protection on the road. Road rage incidents are frequent and sometimes violent in Russia, as drivers may insult, threaten, or attack each other over minor disputes.
To avoid conflicts and accidents with Russian drivers, you should drive defensively and calmly on the road. You should not provoke or respond to aggressive behavior from other drivers. You should also follow the traffic rules as much as possible and respect the rights of pedestrians and cyclists. You should also be aware of some common gestures and signals that Russian drivers use on the road:
A flash of high beams means "I'm letting you go ahead" or "I'm warning you"
A flash of hazard lights means "thank you" or "sorry"
A wave of hand means "hello" or "goodbye"
A raised fist means "stop" or "get out of the way"
A middle finger means "f* you" or "you're an idiot"
Road quality and maintenance
Road quality and maintenance in Russia vary greatly depending on the region, the season, and the traffic volume. In general, roads in big cities and major highways are well-paved and maintained, while roads in rural areas and remote regions are poorly-paved or unpaved and neglected. Road conditions can also deteriorate rapidly due to harsh weather, such as snow, ice, rain, fog, or dust. Potholes, cracks, bumps, and debris are common on Russian roads, especially after winter. You should always check the road conditions before you travel and plan your route accordingly.
Traffic jams and congestion
Traffic jams and congestion are a serious problem in Russia, especially in big cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. According to a 2020 report by TomTom, Moscow ranked as the second most congested city in the world, with an average congestion level of 54%. This means that drivers in Moscow spend 54% more time on the road than they would in free-flowing traffic. St. Petersburg ranked as the ninth most congested city in the world, with an average congestion level of 43%. Traffic jams and congestion in Russia are caused by various factors, such as:
High population density and car ownership
Inadequate public transportation and infrastructure
Poor urban planning and road design
Frequent road works and accidents
Bad weather and road conditions
Special events and holidays
To avoid or reduce traffic jams and congestion in Russia, you should follow these tips:
Avoid driving during peak hours (7-10 am and 5-8 pm) and on weekends
Use public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing services whenever possible
Use GPS or a map app to find alternative routes and avoid traffic hotspots
Listen to traffic reports on the radio or online for updates and alerts
Be patient and courteous to other drivers and pedestrians
Road signs and signals
Road signs and signals in Russia are similar to those in most European countries, as they follow the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals. However, there are some differences and peculiarities that you should be aware of when driving in Russia. For example:
Road signs are written in Cyrillic alphabet, which may be difficult to read for foreigners who do not speak Russian. You should learn some basic Russian words and phrases related to driving before you travel.
Road signs are often placed on the right side of the road, rather than above or on both sides. You should pay attention to the signs on your right as you drive.
Road signs are sometimes obscured by trees, buildings, or other vehicles. You should look out for hidden or missing signs as you drive.
Road signs are sometimes contradictory or confusing. You should use your common sense and follow the traffic flow as you drive.
Traffic lights are usually located on the far side of the intersection, rather than on the near side. You should stop before the stop line or crosswalk when the light is red.
Traffic lights sometimes have additional signals, such as arrows or countdown timers. You should follow the signals according to their meaning.
Police and traffic enforcement
Police and traffic enforcement in Russia are carried out by the State Road Traffic Safety Inspectorate (GIBDD), which is a branch of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The GIBDD officers are responsible for patrolling the roads, enforcing the traffic rules, issuing fines and penalties, investigating accidents, and providing assistance to drivers and pedestrians. The GIBDD officers wear blue uniforms and drive blue-and-white cars with flashing lights and sirens. You must always obey the instructions and signals of the GIBDD officers when driving in Russia.
If you are stopped by a GIBDD officer, you should follow these steps:
Pull over to a safe place and park your car.
Turn off your engine and turn on your hazard lights.
Stay in your car and roll down your window.
Greet the officer politely and hand over your documents (driving license, IDP or translation, passport, visa, vehicle registration, insurance, inspection certificate).
Listen to the officer's questions or comments and answer them honestly and respectfully.
If you are fined or penalized, ask for a receipt or a ticket that shows the amount and the reason for the fine or penalty.
If you disagree with the fine or penalty, do not argue or bribe the officer. You can appeal the fine or penalty later at a court or a GIBDD office.
If you are involved in an accident, do not move your car or leave the scene until the officer arrives and completes the report.
The most common traffic violations and fines in Russia are:
ViolationFine
Speeding500-5,000 rubles ($7-$70)
Running a red light1,000 rubles ($14)
Driving without a seatbelt500 rubles ($7) per person
Driving while using a mobile phone1,500 rubles ($21)
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs30,000 rubles ($420) and license suspension for 1.5-2 years
Causing an accident with minor damage or injury5,000 rubles ($70)
Causing an accident with serious damage or injuryCriminal charges and possible imprisonment
Tips for driving in Russia
Winter driving
Winter driving in Russia can be very challenging and dangerous, as the weather can be extremely cold, snowy, icy, and windy. The roads can be slippery, snowy, or blocked by snowdrifts. The visibility can be poor due to fog, snowfall, or blizzards. The daylight hours can be short and dark. The car batteries can freeze or die. To drive safely and comfortably in winter in Russia, you should follow these tips:
Check the weather forecast before you travel and avoid driving in severe weather conditions.
Dress warmly and bring extra clothes, blankets, food, water, and a flashlight with you.
Equip your car with winter tires, snow chains, antifreeze, windshield wipers, and a shovel.
Drive slowly and carefully on snowy or icy roads. Use low gears and avoid sudden braking or steering.
Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and pedestrians. Watch out for black ice and snowplows.
Park your car in a sheltered place or cover it with a tarp. Start your engine every few hours to prevent it from freezing.
Animal collisions
Animal collisions are another common hazard on Russian roads, especially in rural areas and remote regions. You may encounter various animals on the road, such as cows, horses, sheep, dogs, cats, deer, moose, bears, wolves, foxes, or even camels. Animal collisions can cause serious damage to your car and injury to yourself or the animal. To avoid or minimize animal collisions in Russia, you should follow these tips:
Drive slowly and cautiously on roads that pass through forests, farmlands, or deserts. Watch out for animal crossing signs and road markings.
Be extra alert at dawn and dusk, when animals are more active and less visible.
Use your high beams and horn to scare away animals that may be on or near the road.
Do not swerve or brake hard to avoid hitting an animal, as you may lose control of your car or hit another vehicle. Instead, slow down and steer straight.
If you hit an animal, do not approach it or try to move it, as it may be injured or aggressive. Call the police or the animal rescue service and wait for their arrival.
Emergency numbers
If you encounter an emergency situation on the road, such as an accident, a breakdown, a fire, a crime, or a medical issue, you should call the following numbers for help:
112: The universal emergency number that connects you to the police, the fire brigade, the ambulance, or the gas service. You can call this number from any phone, even without a SIM card or credit.
102: The police number that connects you to the nearest police station or patrol. You can call this number to report a crime, a traffic violation, or a lost document.
103: The ambulance number that connects you to the nearest medical center or hospital. You can call this number to request medical assistance for yourself or someone else.
104: The gas service number that connects you to the nearest gas station or repair shop. You can call this number to report a gas leak, a fire, or a malfunctioning gas appliance.
Useful apps and websites
To make your driving experience in Russia easier and more enjoyable, you can use some of these useful apps and websites that provide various services and information related to driving in Russia:
Table of useful apps and websites for driving in Russia
NameTypeDescription
Yandex.NavigatorAppA navigation app that provides real-time traffic information, route planning, voice guidance, speed camera alerts, and offline maps for driving in Russia.
Russian HighwaysWebsiteA website that provides information on toll roads, toll rates, payment methods, and locations in Russia.
RosavtodorWebsiteA website that provides information on road conditions, road works, road safety, and road regulations in Russia.
GIBDDWebsiteA website that provides information on driving licenses, vehicle inspections, traffic rules, fines and penalties, and GIBDD offices in Russia.
Russian Auto CodeAppAn app that provides information on traffic signs, signals, markings, and rules in Russia. It also has a quiz mode to test your knowledge of Russian road law.
Russian Driving TestAppAn app that helps you prepare for the Russian driving theory test. It has over 800 questions and answers based on the official exam materials.
Russian Car PlatesAppAn app that allows you to check the owner and history of any car registered in Russia by entering its license plate number.
Russian Traffic CamerasAppAn app that shows you live video feeds from over 3,000 traffic cameras across Russia. You can use it to check the traffic situation and road conditions before you travel.
Russian Road Accidents MapWebsiteA website that shows you the location and details of all road accidents reported in Russia. You can use it to avoid accident-prone areas and learn from other drivers' mistakes.
Russian Road Trip PlannerWebsite<
im_endt>A website that helps you plan your road trip in Russia. It allows you to choose your destination, your route, your stops, your budget, and your preferences. It also provides you with useful tips and recommendations for your trip.
Conclusion
Driving in Russia can be a great way to discover the beauty and diversity of this vast country. However, it can also be a challenging and risky endeavor, as you will have to deal with different driving conditions, traffic rules, and road culture than those in your home country. Therefore, you should do some research and preparation before you hit the road in Russia. You should also follow the traffic rules and regulations, respect the rights and customs of other road users, and drive defensively and cautiously on the road. By doing so, you will be able to enjoy your driving adventure in Russia and avoid any trouble or hassle along the way.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers related to driving in Russia:
Is it safe to drive in Russia?
Driving in Russia can be safe or unsafe, depending on various factors, such as your driving skills, your car condition, your route, your destination, the weather, the traffic, and the road culture. In general, driving in Russia is more dangerous than driving in most Western countries, as the accident and fatality rates are higher in Russia. According to the World Health Organization, there were 18.9 road traffic deaths per 100,000 population in Russia in 2018, compared to 10.6 in the United States and 3.1 in the United Kingdom. Therefore, you should exercise extra caution and care when driving in Russia.
What are the best places to drive in Russia?
Russia has many beautiful and interesting places to drive, depending on your preferences and interests. Some of the most popular and scenic routes in Russia are:
The Golden Ring: A circular route that connects several historic towns and villages around Moscow, such as Sergiev Posad, Rostov, Yaroslavl, Kostroma, Suzdal, and Vladimir. You can enjoy the rich cultural and architectural heritage of these places, as well as the picturesque countryside views.
The Trans-Siberian Highway: A long and adventurous route that spans across the entire length of Russia, from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok. You can experience the diversity and vastness of Russia, as well as visit some of its most famous cities and landmarks, such as Moscow, Kazan, Novosibirsk, Irkutsk, Lake Baikal, Ulan-Ude, Chita, Khabarovsk, and Vladivostok.
The Altai Mountains: A stunning and wild route that explores the natural beauty and wonders of the Altai Republic, a mountainous region in southern Siberia. You can admire the snow-capped peaks, green valleys, crystal lakes, rushing rivers, and ancient rock paintings of this region.
What are the worst places to drive in Russia?
Russia also has some places that are best avoided or approached with caution when driving, due to various reasons, such as poor road conditions, high traffic congestion, high crime rate, or political instability. Some of the worst places to drive in Russia are:
Moscow and St. Petersburg: The two largest and most populous cities in Russia are also the most congested and stressful to drive in. You can expect to encounter heavy traffic, frequent road works, confusing road signs, aggressive drivers, and expensive parking fees in these cities. You may also face security checks, protests, or demonstrations that can disrupt the traffic flow.
The North Caucasus: A volatile and conflict-ridden region in southern Russia that borders Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Chechnya. You can face various risks and dangers when driving in this region, such as terrorist attacks, kidnappings, extortion, corruption, roadblocks, landmines, or armed clashes. You should avoid driving in this region unless you have a valid reason and a reliable guide.
The Far North: A remote and harsh region in northern Russia that covers parts of Siberia and the Arctic. You can encounter extreme weather conditions, poor road quality, limited services, and scarce population when driving in this region. You should only drive in this region if you have a well-equipped vehicle, a detailed map, a satellite phone, and enough supplies.
How much does it cost to drive in Russia?
The cost of driving in Russia depends on various factors, such as your vehicle type, your fuel consumption, your route, your tolls, your taxes, your insurance, your parking fees, and your fines or penalties. However, to give you a rough estimate, here are some average costs of driving in Russia:
Gasoline: 46 rubles ($0.64) per liter
Diesel: 49 rubles ($0.69) per liter
Road tax: 2,500 rubles ($35) per year
Car registration fee: 2,000 rubles ($28) one-time
Vehicle inspection: 1,000 rubles ($14) every two years
OSAGO insurance: 5,000 rubles ($70) per year
KASKO insurance: 40,000 rubles ($560) per year
Toll roads: 4 rubles ($0.05) per kilometer
Parking fees: 50-200 rubles ($0.70-$2.80) per hour
Speeding fine: 500-5,000 rubles ($7-$70) per violation
What are the benefits of driving in Russia?
Despite the challenges and risks of driving in Russia, there are also some benefits and advantages that you can enjoy when driving in Russia. Some of them are:
Freedom and flexibility: Driving in Russia gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the country at your own pace and schedule. You can choose your destination, your route, your stops, and your activities without depending on public transportation or tour operators.
Adventure and fun: Driving in Russia can be an adventure and fun experience for those who love driving and discovering new places. You can see some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world, as well as some of the most unique and interesting cultures and people.
Savings and convenience: Driving in Russia can be cheaper and more convenient than using other modes of transportation, such as trains, buses, or planes. You can save money on tickets, luggage fees, transfers, and accommodation. You can also enjoy more comfort and privacy in your own car.
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