Car Rental in Romania for Travelers from the UK

Embarking on a road trip across Romania as someone from the UK is both an extraordinary and practical way to explore this captivating European destination. But before hitting the road, you might wonder:

Can I drive in Romania with my UK driving licence?
What insurance coverage should I select for safety?
What are the average costs for car rentals in Romania?
Are there mandatory road rules unique to Romania?
Can I conveniently book cars for one-way trips?

This comprehensive guide provides clarity on all these inquiries, ensuring you have all the necessary knowledge to navigate roads in Romania seamlessly. Furthermore, it highlights tips and essentials for a stress-free rental experience.

Can British Citizens Drive in Romania?

Yes, British travelers can legally drive in Romania with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• EU/EEA Driving License
or
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
Notes: Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter. EU/EEA driving licenses are valid for car rental across the EU/EEA, as well as in Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and JCB.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 21 and 74. Young drivers aged 21-24 incur a fee of US$ 11.78 per day, capped at US$ 176.84 for the rental.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore options ranging from renowned global chains to unique local brands, each catering to different preferences and needs.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
56
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking
- Convenient locations
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Travelers seeking a mix of quality and affordability
PAYLESS
global
8.5
Locations:
12
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental options
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
49
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
57
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicles
- No hidden fees
- Flexible pick-up and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
73
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive network across Europe
- Premium and economy vehicles available
- User-friendly online booking system
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility in vehicle rental
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
73
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Flexible rental options
- Excellent customer service
- Wide range of vehicles from economy to luxury
- Online booking and management
Best for
Leisure travelers and business professionals

KLASS WAGEN
local
8.5
Locations:
79
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Wide range of luxury cars
- Flexible rental terms
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and flexibility in vehicle choice
Pricecarz
local
8.5
Locations:
20
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized customer service
- Flexible rental options
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
ADDCAR RENTAL
local
8.5
Locations:
31
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Flexible rental terms
- User-friendly booking process
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Competitive pricing
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
SURPRICE RENT A CAR
local
8.5
Locations:
30
Prices:
$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental terms
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
- Personalized service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers

Recommendations for Travelers from GB to RO

Opt for Global Chains If:

You are visiting Romania for the first time
You prefer round-the-clock customer support
Your trip involves multiple regions or cities
You need a reliable and hassle-free experience

Opt for Local Brands If:

You are focusing on urban destinations within Romania
You aim to minimize rental costs
You wish to experience unique or niche vehicle options
You are comfortable using app-based or digital services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. Compare various car types and policies to find the perfect match for your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in the UK
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Choose automatic for ease during long drives
- Consider your comfort level with manual driving in Romania
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your GB insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Transylvania, Carpathian Mountains
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Black Sea Coast, Romanian countryside

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

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Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Romania?

Romania offers travelers a mix of historical cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural attractions. From the medieval charm of Brașov to the vibrant capital of Bucharest, car rentals allow you to explore the diverse destinations at your own pace.

Car Rental Insurance in Romania

When renting a car in Romania as a traveler from Great Britain, understanding the available insurance options is crucial for a safe and worry-free experience. While basic insurance is typically included, additional coverage can provide peace of mind during your journey. Below are the main types of car rental insurance available in Romania and their costs converted to GBP.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers the cost of repairs in case the rental car is damaged due to collision or theft.
£12-20/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage in case the rental car is stolen.
£4-7/day
Essential
Third Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages caused to other parties, including their vehicles and property.
Usually included in the rental price
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Offers coverage for medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
£4-8/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Romania. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $11,789.93

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $11,789.93

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

Smart Tips for Saving on Car Rentals in Romania

Renting a car in Romania can be cost-effective and convenient if you plan ahead and make informed decisions. Here are some specific tips for travelers from Great Britain to save money on car rentals.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Make your reservation several weeks in advance to secure better rates and ensure availability.
Save up to £50-£100
Compare Providers
Use platforms like Rentalcars.com or Kayak to compare rates from different providers in Romania.
Save up to 25%
Opt for Full Tank Policy
Choose the 'full to full' fuel policy and refuel the car yourself at local stations to avoid higher rental company fuel rates.
Save £15-£30
Select Economy Cars
Economy cars are affordable and fuel-efficient, ideal for city and countryside travel.
Save £20-£40 per day

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Romania.

Hidden Fees
Be aware of additional charges that might not be included in the initial quote.
- Extra charges for airport pickups
- Young driver surcharges (under 25 years)
- Extra fees for additional drivers
- Charges for optional equipment (GPS, child seats)
- Cross-border travel fees if applicable
Insurance Policies
Understand the insurance coverage options and requirements.
- Verify if your travel insurance covers rental cars
- Check credit card benefits for rental insurance
- Consider third-party insurance options
- Review collision damage waiver (CDW) terms
- Clarify liability coverage limits
Fuel Policies
Understand the fuel return policies to avoid unexpected costs.
- Full-to-full is generally cost-effective
- Prepaid fuel plans are often pricier
- Locate nearby fuel stations before returning the car
- Keep fuel receipts as evidence
- Avoid returning the car with less fuel than required
Car Condition Check
Inspect the car thoroughly before and after usage.
- Document pre-existing damages with photos
- Check tire condition and pressure
- Verify operational status of lights and electronics
- Note the fuel level at pickup
- Test the air conditioning and heating
Rental Agreement Terms
Read and understand the rental agreement carefully.
- Verify mileage allowances and restrictions
- Understand geographical driving limits
- Clarify rules for early or late returns
- Review cancellation and modification policies
- Ensure clarity on damage liability procedures
Pickup and Return Timing
Plan accordingly for pickup and return schedules.
- Choose pickup times during business hours
- Allocate extra time at airport locations
- Avoid late returns to prevent extra charges
- Confirm early return refund policies
- Account for traffic conditions for timely returns

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Differences and Similarities Between GB and RO Traffic Rules

While traffic rules in Great Britain and Romania share common elements, notable differences include driving sides, road signage, and speed limits.

Driving Side
RO
Drive on the right side of the road.
GB
Drive on the left side of the road.
Road Signage
RO
Uses international road signs with metric units.
GB
Uses local road signs with imperial units.
Speed Limits
RO
Expressed in km/h, with distinct urban and highway limits.
GB
Expressed in mph, with distinct urban and highway limits.
Insurance Documents
RO
Mandatory to carry Green Card insurance for foreign vehicles.
GB
No Green Card required for domestic travel.
Seatbelt Laws
RO
Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants.
GB
Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants.
Mobile Phone Use
RO
Hands-free systems only.
GB
Hands-free systems only.
Traffic Light Compliance
RO
Strict adherence to traffic lights.
GB
Strict adherence to traffic lights.
Remember
- • Ensure your vehicle is equipped with a first aid kit and reflective vests, as required in Romania.
- • Carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) when driving in Romania.
- • Be aware of local parking regulations to avoid fines.
- • Familiarize yourself with toll road systems in Romania.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from United Kingdom renting a car in Romania

Do I really need to rent a car in Romania? How is the public transport?

Renting a car is highly recommended! While cities like Bucharest and Cluj have decent public transport, Romania’s true charm lies in its countryside, mountains, and remote villages, which are difficult to access without a car. Renting gives you the freedom to explore places like Transylvanian Saxon villages, Maramureș wooden churches, and the famous Transfăgărășan road.

When should I book my rental car?

Book as early as possible, especially for summer (June to August) or holiday periods. We suggest booking at least 1-2 months ahead to ensure a wider selection of cars (especially automatics) and to secure better prices.

What type of car should I choose for driving in Romania?

It depends on your itinerary. For city and main road travel, a compact car is sufficient. If you plan to visit mountains or rural areas, an SUV with higher ground clearance is strongly recommended to handle rough or unpaved roads.

Is there a recommended booking platform for rental cars?

Yes, we recommend using QEEQ. It allows you to compare options from various rental companies, has a clear interface, and usually offers competitive deals.

What is the best season for a road trip in Romania?

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the best seasons for driving in Romania: pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, and fewer tourists. Summer is busy and hot, while winter brings road closures in the mountains and requires winter tyres by law.

Are automatic cars common in Romania?

No, manual transmission cars are the norm and much cheaper. If you require an automatic, make sure to filter for this option and book as early as possible, as automatics are limited and get booked quickly.

Can I drive my Romanian rental car into neighbouring countries?

Most companies allow cross-border travel, but you must declare it in advance and pay a cross-border fee. If you leave Romania without permission, insurance becomes void and you could face heavy fines.

Which airport is best for picking up a rental car?

Bucharest’s Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) offers the most choices. Cluj-Napoca (CLJ) and Sibiu (SBZ) airports in Transylvania are also excellent starting points for a road trip.

How long does it take to drive a classic Transylvania route?

A classic Transylvania loop (Brasov, Sibiu, Sighișoara, etc.) takes about 7-10 days for a relaxed pace. To explore more remote areas, consider a trip of 14 days or longer.

Is it safe to drive in Romania?

Generally, yes, but stay alert. Romanian driving can be more aggressive than in the UK, especially in cities. Rural roads may have horse-drawn carts, pedestrians, and animals. Defensive driving and avoiding unfamiliar rural roads at night is advised.

What documents do I need to rent a car in Romania as a UK citizen after Brexit?

You need a valid passport, your UK photocard driving licence, and a credit card in the main driver’s name for payment and deposit.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Romania?

Officially, UK licence holders do not need an IDP for stays up to 90 days. However, we strongly recommend obtaining a 1968 IDP, as some rental staff or police may be unfamiliar with the latest rules.

What is the minimum age for renting a car in Romania?

Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, some 23. Check the specific provider’s policy when booking.

Is there a surcharge for drivers under 25?

Yes, almost all companies charge a ‘young driver surcharge’ for those under 25. This is a daily fee and can significantly increase your total cost.

Do I really need to bring my passport to pick up the car, even if I have my UK driving licence?

Yes, your passport is required as primary identification for the rental company to verify your identity and make a copy for their records.

How long must I have held my UK driving licence to rent a car?

Usually, you need to have held your licence for at least 1 year. Some higher-end cars may require 2 or 3 years.

Can I add an additional driver? What documents do they need?

Yes, you can add an additional driver for a fee. They must be present at pick-up and provide the same documents as the main driver: passport, valid driving licence, and ideally an IDP.

Do I need to provide a DVLA check code?

Since Brexit, DVLA check codes are rarely required in the EU, including Romania, but having one prepared just in case is sensible. The physical driving licence card remains the most important document.

What is the total cost for renting a car in Romania?

Total cost includes base rental, compulsory insurance, any extra insurance, young driver surcharges, accessories (GPS, child seat), fuel, and road tax (usually included). Expect £30-£50/day for an economy car with full insurance, depending on season and booking time.

What is the security deposit and how much is it?

The deposit is a sum temporarily frozen on your credit card to cover potential damages, fines, or missing fuel. It ranges from €500 to €2,000, depending on car type and insurance level. Buying full insurance often lowers the deposit.

Do I need a credit card or can I use a debit card?

You must have a credit card in the main driver’s name for the deposit. Most companies do not accept debit cards for deposits. Even if you pay the rental itself with a debit card, the deposit must be on a credit card.

What insurance is usually included in the rental price?

Basic rental includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP), but both come with a high excess (usually €800-€2,000). This means you are liable for the first part of any damage.

What is SCDW or ‘full insurance’? Should I buy it?

Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) or ‘full insurance’ reduces your excess to zero or a very low amount. Given Romania’s road and driving conditions, we highly recommend buying full insurance for peace of mind.

Can I rely on third-party excess insurance (like from a credit card or travel policy)?

You can, but you’ll still need to pay for any damage up front and then claim reimbursement from your insurance provider. The rental company will still freeze a large deposit on your credit card.

What is the usual fuel policy for rentals in Romania?

The most common and fair policy is ‘Full to Full’—you receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. Otherwise, you’ll be charged for fuel at a much higher rate plus a service fee.

Should I pay in GBP or RON when using my card in Romania?

Always choose to pay in the local currency (RON) when prompted. This ensures you get the best exchange rate from your card provider rather than the retailer’s usually unfavourable rate.

Are there any hidden fees I should watch out for?

Yes—look out for one-way drop-off fees, airport surcharges (often included), out-of-hours fees, GPS/child seat rental, cross-border fees, and young driver surcharges.

How should I pay the deposit and rental charges?

The rental fee can be prepaid online or paid at the desk. The deposit is always pre-authorised on the main driver’s credit card at pick-up. Ensure your card has sufficient credit to cover both.

What is the procedure when I arrive at the rental desk?

You’ll queue, show your booking, passport, driving licence (and IDP if you have one), confirm booking details, sign the contract, pay rental and deposit, and receive keys, vehicle documents, and parking location details.

What should I check before driving off with the car?

Thoroughly inspect the car’s exterior and interior, photograph or film any scratches or dents, check tyres and windscreen, confirm fuel level is full, and ensure everything is noted on the contract.

What contract details should I pay special attention to?

Check your personal information, insurance coverage (especially the excess), fuel policy, mileage limits, and that all existing damages are correctly recorded.

Should I check for legal safety equipment inside the car?

Yes. Romanian law requires a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, two warning triangles, and a high-visibility vest to be in the car. Make sure these are present to avoid fines.

What if I find unrecorded damage before leaving?

Go back to the rental desk or find a staff member and have the damage added to your contract with their signature. Never drive away with unrecorded damage.

How can I adapt from UK left-hand driving to Romanian right-hand driving?

Remember: ‘the driver is always next to the road centre’. Take it slow at first, have your passenger remind you to keep right, be extra careful at roundabouts (give way to the left), and allow time to adjust.

What is 'rovinieta' and do I need to buy it?

‘Rovinieta’ is a Romanian road tax required for driving on national roads and motorways. All legal rentals should already have this included. Confirm with your rental provider but you usually don’t need to buy it yourself.

What are the standard speed limits in Romania?

Speed limits: Cities/towns—50 km/h; outside built-up areas—90-100 km/h; motorways—130 km/h. Speed cameras are common so stick to the limits.

Are Romanian roads really as bad as their reputation?

Major highways and national roads are generally good, but rural and mountain roads can be poor, with potholes and cracks. This is why SUVs are often recommended. Always slow down and watch the road surface.

Do Romanian roundabouts have any special rules?

Rules are the same as the UK: give way to vehicles already on the roundabout. However, city roundabouts can be chaotic, so stay calm and assertive but careful.

What are the rules about drink driving in Romania?

Romania has a zero-tolerance policy: the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. Any alcohol in your system while driving can result in severe penalties, including jail.

Is parking easy in Romanian cities? How do I pay for it?

Parking in city centres is scarce and usually paid. You can pay via meters (coins or cards), SMS (instructions on signs), or local apps. Never park illegally—fines and clamping/towing are strict.

Are petrol stations easy to find? What fuel do I need?

Petrol stations are common, especially on main roads. ‘Benzină’ is petrol, ‘Motorină’ or ‘Diesel’ is diesel. The correct fuel type is usually marked on your rental keys. Most stations accept credit cards.

What should I do if I am stopped by the police?

Stay calm and polite. Pull over, lower your window, keep hands on the wheel, and wait for the officer. Hand over your driving licence, passport, and car documents. If fined, ask for official paperwork—never pay cash on the spot.

Are there any unusual Romanian road signs or situations to be aware of?

Yes—look out for signs warning of horse-drawn carts or wild animals (deer, bears). Sharing rural roads with horse carts is common.

What are your tips for night driving in Romania?

Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar rural or mountain areas. Many roads lack lighting, and you may encounter unlit carts, pedestrians, animals, or deep potholes.

Any special advice for driving the Transfăgărășan or Transalpina roads?

First, check if these famous mountain roads are open (usually closed October–June). Drive slowly and carefully—roads are narrow and winding. The scenery is world-class, so take your time and enjoy!

What is the process for returning the car?

Fill up the tank to the agreed policy (keep the receipt), follow airport or rental point signs, wait for staff to inspect the car with you, and compare the condition with the pick-up report. Get a signed confirmation before handing back the keys.

What happens if there are new scratches or damage at return?

If you have full insurance, you usually pay nothing (or a small excess). With basic insurance, you pay up to the excess limit. The company will prepare a damage report and deduct the amount from your deposit.

When will my security deposit be refunded?

The rental company releases the deposit immediately after a damage-free return. Your bank may take 5–15 working days to make the funds available again.

What should I do if I receive a speeding or parking fine after returning to the UK?

The Romanian authorities will contact the rental company, who will deduct a management fee from your card and forward the fine to you. Follow the instructions in the email and pay promptly to avoid increased penalties.

What is your final ‘golden tip’ for first-time UK drivers in Romania?

Relax and embrace the adventure! Book the right car, take full insurance, check the car thoroughly, adapt to right-hand driving, and leave time for spontaneous detours—the most beautiful places are often off the beaten path.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Romania for Travelers from the UK

Embarking on a road trip across Romania as someone from the UK is both an extraordinary and practical way to explore this captivating European destination. But before hitting the road, you might wonder:

Can British Citizens Drive in Romania?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Travelers from GB to RO

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Romania?

Car Rental Insurance in Romania

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Smart Tips for Saving on Car Rentals in Romania

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Differences and Similarities Between GB and RO Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations