This guide provides all the needed information for Austrian tourists planning to drive in Romania. You'll learn about licensing requirements, rental terms, and even driving tips to make your journey enjoyable and worry-free.
Yes, Austrian travelers can rent and drive a car in Romania with the correct documents. Make sure you bring a valid passport, an acceptable EU/EEA driving licence, and a physical credit card in the main driver’s name. Age-related surcharges may apply to younger or older drivers.
Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• EU/EEA Driving License (Austrian licences are EU licences and are valid for car rental across the EU/EEA, as well as in Switzerland and the United Kingdom). The main and any additional drivers must hold a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1 year.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and JCB for some offers; other offers may accept only Visa and MasterCard. E‑voucher or printed voucher must be presented.
Age requirements:
General age range to rent: 21–74 years. Some offers allow driving from 21–64, others from 21–74. Young drivers aged 21–24 will pay a surcharge (e.g., about US$5.84–11.69 per day, sometimes capped around US$175.40 per rental). Older drivers 66–74 may also incur a similar surcharge on certain offers.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Austrian travelers visiting Romania.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands

SIXT
Locations:
56Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking a mix of quality and affordability
PAYLESS
Locations:
11Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
Locations:
53Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
Locations:
57Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Europcar
Locations:
73Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility in vehicle rental
Avis
Locations:
78Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business professionals
KLASS WAGEN
Locations:
81Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and flexibility in vehicle choice
Pricecarz
Locations:
20Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
ADDCAR RENTAL
Locations:
32Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
SURPRICE RENT A CAR
Locations:
20Prices:
$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelersChoosing the right rental car can make your more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
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
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in USA
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most Polish drivers prefer automatic for USA road trips
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
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 Polish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
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
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
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
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, IașiMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country throughout RomaniaConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Black Sea Coast, Transylvania, Maramureș regionCompare with Confidence on QEEQ
Romania offers a blend of charming medieval towns, stunning Carpathian mountain landscapes, and the iconic Transfagarasan Highway. Travelers can explore historical cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Brasov, or venture into the tranquil countryside for a more authentic experience.
Driving in Romania requires insurance to ensure compliance with local laws and to protect yourself against financial liabilities. It is advisable to secure robust coverage to mitigate risks during your travels.
Provides coverage for damages to the rental car in case of collision or theft.
Covers the costs in case the rental vehicle is stolen.
Covers damages or injuries to other people or their property.
Provides medical coverage for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
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.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Travelers from Austria can explore Romania affordably by making informed choices when renting cars. Follow these tips to experience the charm of Romania without overspending.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Romania as travelers from Austria.
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.
Austrian and Romanian traffic rules vary in speed limits, alcohol tolerance, and road signage usage, although they share common European Union regulations.
Speed Limits
50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads
50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on rural roads
Alcohol Limits
0.00% BAC for professional drivers, 0.05% BAC for others
0.00% BAC for all drivers
Road Signage
Uses international symbols with Romanian language
Uses international symbols with German language
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free devices required
Hands-free devices required
Seatbelt Usage
Mandatory for all occupants
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
Parking zones marked and require tickets in urban areas
Parking zones marked and require tickets in urban areas
Common questions for travelers from Austria renting a car in Romania