Driving in Azerbaijan

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 Azerbaijan is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Driving hazards such as open manholes, debris, sinkholes and potholes are common.  Drivers do not pay attention to traffic regulations, signals, lanes, pedestrians or other drivers.  Drivers often travel at extremely high speed, and accidents are frequent and often serious.  Driving in Baku should be considered extremely hazardous.  Outside the city, even where roads are present, conditions are similar.  Roads are often in poor repair, unlit, and lack lane markings, traffic signs, and warnings.  Many rural roads are largely unpaved.

Public transportation throughout the country is overcrowded and poorly maintained.  The U.S. Embassy strongly discourages use of the Baku Metro.  Train travel in the Caucasus region is not secure.