Motor vehicle Laws Bhutan
Bhutan enforces specific motor vehicle laws to ensure road safety and efficient transportation. Key aspects include:
Driving Regulations
Driving Side: Motorists in Bhutan drive on the left side of the road.
Minimum Driving Age:
- Light Vehicles: 18 years.
- Medium and Heavy Vehicles: 21 years.
Speed Limits:
- Urban Areas: Speed limits range from 8 km/h to 30 km/h, depending on specific zones.
- Rural Areas: Up to 50 km/h.
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit: The legal BAC limit is 0.08%.
Motorcycle Safety: Motorcyclists are required to wear helmets.
Vehicle Licensing and Registration
Driver's License: The minimum age to obtain a driver's license for light vehicles is 18, and for medium and heavy vehicles, it is 21.
Vehicle Registration:
- Only new vehicles can be registered in Bhutan; second-hand or used vehicles registered in other countries cannot be registered.
Importation of Vehicles:
- Importing vehicles of third-country origin requires an import license issued by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
- Privileged personnel of foreign diplomatic missions and international agencies are permitted to import or acquire a vehicle locally on a duty-exempt basis within 12 months of their arrival in Bhutan.
Road Safety and Transport Act
- The Road Safety and Transport Act of 1999 aims to provide for the safe and efficient use of Bhutan's road system, establishing procedures for driver licensing and vehicle registration.
Insurance Requirements
- Motor insurance is mandatory in Bhutan to protect vehicle owners from financial losses and third-party liability.
Regional Agreements
- Bhutan is part of the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal) Motor Vehicles Agreement, which aims to facilitate seamless vehicle movement among these countries for cargo and passenger transport. However, as of December 2018, Bhutan has not yet ratified the agreement.
Recommendations for Drivers
Stay Informed: Regularly consult official sources for updates on traffic regulations and licensing requirements.
Ensure Compliance: Verify that your vehicle meets Bhutanese safety standards and that you carry valid registration and insurance documents.
Observe Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road and traffic conditions.
Avoid Alcohol Consumption: Given the legal BAC limit, refrain from consuming alcohol if you plan to drive.
Adherence to Bhutan's motor vehicle laws is essential for safe and lawful driving within the country.
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