Information for Travelers

Driving in Albania

While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Albania is provided for general reference only, and it may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

• Safety of Public Transportation: Poor
• Urban Road Condition/Maintenance: Poor
• Rural Road Condition/Maintenance: Poor
• Availability of Roadside Assistance: None

Major roads in Albania are often in very poor repair. Travel at night outside the main urban areas is particularly dangerous and should be avoided due to deplorable road conditions. During the winter months, travelers may encounter dangerous snow and ice conditions on the roads through the mountains in Northern Albania. Buses travel between most major cities almost exclusively during the day, but they may be unreliable and uncomfortable. Many travelers looking for public transport prefer to use privately owned vans, which function as an alternate system of bus routes and operate almost wholly without schedules or set fares. Please note that many of these privately owned vans may not have official permission to operate a bus service and may not adhere to accepted safety and maintenance standards. Persons wishing to use privately owned vans should exercise caution. There are no commercial domestic flights and few rail connections.

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, please see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/travel/abroad_roadsafety.html.

When driving in Albania a U.S. citizen can use a valid international driver’s license issued in the United States. The American Automobile Association (AAA) issues International driver’s licenses in the United States. Please visit their web site http://www.csaa.com for more information.

Note: An International driver’s license/permit can only be used for one year. If one wishes to drive in Albania for more than one year he or she must apply for an Albanian driver’s license.