Kazakhstan

Drive in Kazakhstan

International driving licences are valid in Kazakhstan. However if you are resident in Kazakhstan you are advised to obtain a Kazakh driving license after six months residency.

Service stations and petrol/water access can be limited outside the main cities. Make sure you take all you need for your journey. You should ensure that your vehicle is properly maintained and in good condition for lengthy journeys across Kazakhstan. A significant proportion of cars are not safely maintained and do not have rear seatbelts. In some remote parts of Kazakhstan animals can be seen regularly on the roads and can be especially difficult to see in the dark. We advise against using local buses or mini-buses as maintenance of these vehicles is generally poor. Driving can be erratic and care should be taken crossing roads. Pedestrian crossings are rarely respected.

The roads are poorly maintained and road works or damaged roads are often not clearly signposted. During the winter, roads are often hazardous due to snow and ice.

Local Traffic Police only have the right to stop vehicles if an offence has been committed. Travellers should note that a Traffic Police Official should start immediately to complete official papers relating to any alleged offence.

Roads in Kazakhstan are in poor repair, especially in rural areas. Street lighting, especially on side streets, may be turned off at night. Drivers often ignore lane markings. Potholes are common, and are often dangerously deep. Pedestrians frequently dart out in front of cars. Visitors should drive defensively at all times as many local drivers do not follow traffic laws.

Special caution should particularly be taken if driving at night. Road rage can be a problem, especially in and around Almaty, and a non-confrontational response to such behavior is strongly recommended. Accidents involving severe injury and/or death are common.