Planning to explore Kazakhstan by rental car? Driving is one of the best ways to discover the country’s vibrant cities, scenic mountain roads, and breathtaking natural attractions. Before you start your journey, it’s important to understand the local traffic rules and parking regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
🚗 Driving Side
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Overtake on the left.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free system.
🚦 Speed Limits
- Residential areas: 20 km/h
- Urban roads: 60 km/h
- Outside cities: 90 km/h
- Expressways: 110 km/h
- Motorways: Up to 140 km/h where indicated
Always follow posted speed limit signs, as they take priority over general limits.
🅿️ Parking Rules
- Always park only in designated parking spaces.
- Pay attention to road signs indicating paid parking or parking restrictions.
- Do not park on sidewalks unless signs specifically allow it.
- Never block driveways, pedestrian crossings, bus stops, or emergency access.
- Parking may be limited during snow removal or street maintenance.
💳 Paid Parking
Paid parking is common in central areas of cities such as Almaty and Astana.
- Payment is usually available via parking meters.
- Many locations accept mobile payment apps.
- Some parking areas accept bank card payments.
- Keep your parking receipt if required.
🚫 No Parking Zones
Parking is generally prohibited:
- On pedestrian crossings.
- Within intersections.
- Near traffic lights.
- In front of fire hydrants.
- At bus or tram stops.
- In spaces reserved for disabled drivers without authorization.
- Where road signs prohibit stopping or parking.
🚓 Police Checks
Police may conduct routine roadside inspections.
Keep the following documents with you:
- Valid driving licence.
- Passport or national ID.
- Rental agreement.
- Vehicle registration documents (provided with the rental car).
⛽ Fuel Stations
- Fuel stations are widely available in cities.
- On long-distance routes, plan fuel stops in advance.
- Most stations accept cash and major bank cards.
- Self-service and full-service stations are both available.
❄️ Winter Driving
- Winter tyres are strongly recommended during the cold season.
- Road conditions can change quickly in mountain regions.
- Drive with extra caution during snow or ice.
- Allow greater stopping distances.
🚧 Road Conditions
Main highways between major cities are generally in good condition. Rural roads may vary in quality, and some remote areas have limited services. When travelling long distances, check weather forecasts and road conditions before departure.
🚨 In Case of an Accident
- Stop immediately and switch on your hazard lights.
- Check whether anyone is injured.
- Call emergency services if necessary.
- Contact your rental company using the emergency number provided in your rental documents.
- Do not move the vehicle unless required for safety.
- Take photos of the scene if it is safe to do so.
💡 Useful Driving Tips
- Carry enough drinking water for long journeys.
- Download offline maps before travelling to remote areas.
- Keep your fuel tank above half when driving outside major cities.
- Watch for livestock on rural roads.
- Always obey local road signs and traffic signals.
- Avoid driving when tired, especially on long highways.
Enjoy Your Road Trip
Driving gives you the freedom to experience Kazakhstan beyond the major tourist attractions. By following local traffic laws, respecting parking regulations, and planning your route, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable journey across one of Central Asia’s most fascinating destinations.