There are always myths and rumours floating around about Turkmenistan, and since there's so little outside information about the country, it's sometimes hard to decipher what's true and what's either made up or exaggerated. Recently there have been a few about some weird driving rules in Turkmenistan, so here's the truth about them.
1.Women are banned from driving
This isn't true, although there is reason for this rumour to have emerged. Recently it was discovered that several women, mainly wives and mistresses of officials, have been getting fake driving licenses, without having passed any of the tests. As such, the traffic police began pulling over every woman they saw driving to check their licenses. They still pulled over men as they usually did, either for random checks at police stops, of which there are plenty, or because they were breaking a road rule, but women were getting pulled over regardless. If they had a real license, some of them were let go on the spot, but many were asked not to drive for a few days while the license was checked. Those with fake licenses were of course fined and banned from driving. This has already eased off as most of the fake licenses have been discovered, but it's still more likely to be pulled over if you are a woman.
2.Only white cars are allowed
This isn't exactly true but isn't too far off. In Turkmenistan, particularly in the capital Ashgabat, car colour regulations are strict. Since 2018, only white, silver, or gold cars are permitted within the city limits. This aligns with Ashgabat's aesthetic as the "City of White Marble," renowned for its gleaming white architecture. Owners of non-compliant vehicles have been required to repaint their cars or face fines. This rule has driven up the cost of car repainting significantly.
3.Clean cars, no scratches or dents.
Turkmen authorities mandate that all vehicles must be spotless and free from scratches or dents, especially in Ashgabat. Dirty cars can attract hefty fines as part of the government's effort to maintain the city's pristine image. Drivers often carry cleaning supplies or rely on frequent car washes to avoid penalties.
4. Driving foreign cars
Driving foreign vehicles is possible but comes with challenges. Importing cars into Turkmenistan involves navigating strict customs regulations and high import taxes. Additionally, foreign drivers must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their home license. Tourists renting cars should ensure all documentation is in order to avoid issues at frequent police stops.
5. Zero Tolerance for Alcohol
Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited in Turkmenistan. The country enforces a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any detectable amount of alcohol in a driver's system can lead to penalties.
6. Camels and Road Safety
In Turkmenistan, camels are a significant road hazard, particularly in rural and desert areas where they roam freely. These animals are often found crossing roads unexpectedly, leading to accidents that can be more dangerous than typical car-on-car collisions. In some years, the number of crashes involving camels has exceeded those between two vehicles.
Driving outside major cities can be hazardous due to narrow roads riddled with potholes, poor lighting, and minimal signage.
7. Local driving habits
Driving in Turkmenistan requires a defensive approach due to erratic local driving habits:
- Drivers often ignore lane markings and make sudden lane changes without signalling.
- Left turns from the right lane (and vice versa) are common.
- Pedestrians frequently cross streets unpredictably, even against traffic.
8. Traffic Laws
- Speed Limits : Urban areas have a limit of 60 kph; rural roads allow up to 90 kph; highways permit speeds up to 110 kph.
- Seatbelt Use : Mandatory for all passengers.
- Overtaking Rules : Allowed only on the left side under safe conditions.
- Driving Side : Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road.
9. Police Stops
Police checkpoints are common at intersections and highways. Officers may stop vehicles for routine document checks or minor infractions. Drivers should always carry:
- A valid driver’s license (and IDP if applicable).
- Vehicle registration documents.
-
Proof of insurance.
With any information you get about a place, the best way to truly know for yourself is to go there! The best way to go to Turkmenistan is of course on a Saiga Tour. Check out our
Turkmenistan group tours
on our website to see which dates line up for you. If no dates line up, send us an email to [email protected] and we can tailor make a private Turkmenistan tour for you.
