Driving In Azerbaijan: Safe Or Not?

Azerbaijan is a relatively safe country to visit, with a strongman ruler who wants to increase tourism. Driving in Azerbaijan is safe, but there are some things to keep in mind. The roads in Azerbaijan vary in quality, with the main intercity roads generally in good condition, while the roads in mountainous areas may require a good 4WD vehicle. Driving in Baku, the capital, can be challenging due to heavy traffic, fast drivers, and pedestrians who don't pay much attention. It is probably more dangerous to drive in rural areas because of poor driving standards and low-quality highways. The roads outside the cities are in poor condition, and driving at night is especially dangerous due to a lack of lighting.

Driving in Baku

If you decide to drive in Baku, there are some important things to keep in mind. Firstly, driving standards in Azerbaijan can be erratic, with some motorists flouting local traffic laws. This includes overtaking on bends or other blind spots, so it is important to drive defensively. The roads can also be poorly illuminated, especially outside the cities, so it is best to avoid driving at night if possible.

When it comes to parking in Baku, it can be difficult to find a spot, and locals don't always respect traffic laws. There is a parking garage in the city that charges 12 manat for 24 hours, and you can also park on the street in smaller towns.

In terms of road conditions, the roads in and around Baku are generally well-maintained. However, there may be construction or potholes in some areas, so it is important to stay alert and follow the speed limits. Speed cameras are common, and fines for speeding can be expensive.

Another thing to keep in mind is that there is a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving in Azerbaijan. The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.00%, and this is strictly enforced.

Finally, it is important to have the proper documentation when driving in Azerbaijan. This includes a valid driver's license, insurance, and vehicle registration. International Driving Permits are also required for drivers from certain countries.

Driving in rural areas

Roads in rural areas are in reasonable condition but are not as smooth as in Baku. The road conditions are particularly bad outside the cities, and driving at night is especially dangerous, as the roads are poorly lit, or not lit at all. There is usually little or no lighting on the roads, and there are a lot of potholes and bumps that can cause a bad accident if you can't see them coming.

In rural Azerbaijan, you also need to watch out for people on foot and livestock on the roads. You may encounter cows, horses, sheep, and shepherds on the roads.

It is recommended to fill up your car with petrol when you can, as petrol stations can be far between in rural areas.

If you are driving in Azerbaijan, it is important to have the correct documentation. This includes a valid, full driving licence, your motor insurance certificate (which can be bought at the border), the V5 registration document for your car, and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Road safety

Azerbaijan has seen a steady increase in tourism since its independence in 1991. While the country is generally safe, road safety is a concern for many travellers. Here are some tips to keep in mind when driving in Azerbaijan:

Traffic Rules and Road Conditions:

• Driving in Azerbaijan can be challenging due to erratic local driving styles. Many drivers speed, overtake on bends, and flout traffic rules and signs.
• Roads in rural areas, especially mountainous regions, are often in poor condition, with potholes and bumps.
• Roads outside cities are poorly lit, so avoid driving at night to prevent accidents caused by limited visibility.
• In urban areas, the speed limit is 60 km/h, while in rural areas, it's 90 km/h, and on motorways, it's 110 km/h.
• There are speed cameras, and fines for speeding can run into the hundreds of dollars.
• There is zero tolerance for drinking and driving, with a blood alcohol limit of 0.00%.
• Always carry the necessary documents, including a valid driving licence, motor insurance certificate, and vehicle registration.
• It is recommended to have headlamp converters, a warning triangle, spare bulbs, and a fire extinguisher.
• Ensure that everyone in the car wears a seatbelt, and if riding a motorcycle, wear a crash helmet.
• Be cautious of pedestrians and livestock when driving in rural areas.

Safety Precautions:

• Refrain from driving in central Baku due to heavy traffic. Consider using public transportation or the metro system instead.
• When renting a car, use reputable companies and consider purchasing additional insurance.
• Be cautious when dealing with police or people posing as police officers. Ask to be taken to a police station if you're unsure.
• Avoid driving near the border with Armenia due to security risks and the presence of unexploded ordnance.
• Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like markets and public transportation.
• Avoid driving alone at night, as it can be dangerous due to poor lighting and potential safety hazards.

Driving licences and insurance

To drive in Azerbaijan, you must be aged 18 or over and have a valid driving licence from your home country. You will also need an International Driving Permit (IDP), which you can obtain for a fee. An IDP is a translation of your home country driving licence and is recognised in over 150 countries. It is valid for one to three years.

In Azerbaijan, you must carry your driving licence, IDP, proof of insurance and vehicle registration at all times. If you do not own the vehicle, you must have a power of attorney giving you the right to drive it.

The cost of an International Driver’s License/International Driving Permit (IDP) in Azerbaijan starts at $69. You will need an IDP to drive a rental car in Azerbaijan.

The roads in Azerbaijan are generally in good condition, but there are some roads in mountainous areas that require a good 4WD vehicle. Driving standards are poor, and many cars are badly maintained. Outside of Baku, there is insufficient street lighting and signage, and roads are shared with pedestrians and livestock.

Insurance is mandatory in Azerbaijan. The total payment at the border amounts to 20 euros for 30 days of mandatory insurance for cars, and 10 dollars for motorbikes. You can pay in dollars, euros or manat, but it is recommended that you bring cash as cards may not be accepted.

Border crossings

Azerbaijan borders Georgia, Armenia, Russia, and Iran, as well as the exclave of Nakhchivan, which borders Turkey. The country's land and sea borders have been closed for entry since the pandemic, but you can fly in without restrictions and exit via land or sea. It is not possible to enter via a land or sea border.

If you are crossing the border into Azerbaijan, you will need to pay a mandatory insurance fee of 20 euros for 30 days for cars, or 10 dollars for motorbikes. There is also a 15-euro road tax. You can usually pay in dollars, euros, or manat, but it is recommended to bring cash as cards may not be accepted.

When crossing the border, you must have the following documents in the car:

• Vehicle registration document
• Passport and driver's license
• Proof that the car is roadworthy (check-up card)

If you are crossing the border from Georgia, the Matsimi/Lagodekhi/Balakan route is recommended. This route connects Telavi and Zaqatala and is described as a beautiful drive. There is no public transport available on the Azeri side, but minibuses and taxis run between the border and Balakan.

Another option is the Tsiteli/Red Bridge-Shikhli/Sixli border crossing, which is open 24/7 and connects Rustavi (Georgia) with Qazax (Azerbaijan). There is public transport available on both sides of the border, as well as shops and exchange places. However, watch out for speed traps on the Azeri side.

If you are crossing from Iran, the Astara border crossing is a good option. This border is open 24/7, and you can simply walk from one town to the other. Exchange rates on the Iranian side are better at the exchange offices than with the money changers near the border. On the Azeri side, the local market has money changers with good rates. This border can be busy or quiet depending on the geopolitical situation.

For those crossing from Russia, the Yarag-Kazmalyar-Samur border crossing is open to all foreigners and is known for the large amounts of bribes that have been paid there in the past. On the Russian side, you can take a shared taxi from Derbent to Yarag, and on the Azeri side, you can find shared taxis to Xudat, Xacmaz, or Quba.

Finally, if you are crossing into the exclave of Nakhchivan, there are border crossings with Iran and Turkey. The Jolfa-Julfa border crossing with Iran is busy with Azeris crossing over to Iran for medical treatment and supplies. The Sadarak-Dilicu border crossing with Turkey connects Nakhchivan city and Iğdır and has several buses running between the two cities each day.

Frequently asked questions