Car Rental in Romania for Belgian Travelers

Embarking on an adventure from Belgium to Romania is thrilling, and renting a car offers unmatched freedom. If you're a Belgian citizen, you might wonder:

Can I drive in Romania with my Belgian license?
What car rental companies are recommended for travelers from Belgium?
Is insurance mandatory for car rentals in Romania?
What are the costs of rental vehicles in Romania?
What local traffic rules should I familiarize myself with?

This guide will demystify your journey to ensure a smooth car rental experience, covering every aspect from legal requirements to local driving customs and budgeting tips.

Can Belgian Citizens Drive in Romania with a Rental Car?

Yes, Belgian travelers can rent and drive a car in Romania with the proper documents. Age limits and young/old driver surcharges may apply depending on the driver’s age and the specific offer.

Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid passport.
Driving licence:
The main and any additional drivers must hold a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1 year. Accepted driving licence include:
• EU/EEA Driving License (valid throughout 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 cards may include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, or JCB depending on the specific offer. E‑voucher or printed voucher must also be presented at pick‑up.
Age requirements:
Eligible driving age ranges between 21 and 74 years, depending on the specific offer. Commonly, drivers aged 21–64/74 may rent a car. Young drivers aged 21–24 may incur a surcharge of about US$ 5.84–11.68 per day, sometimes capped at around US$ 175 for the rental. Some offers may also apply a similar surcharge for older drivers aged 66–74.

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

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore reliable car rental options in Romania, tailored for travelers from Belgium.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
56
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking
- Convenient locations
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Travelers seeking a mix of quality and affordability
PAYLESS
global
8.5
Locations:
11
Prices:
$-$$
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:
53
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:
$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive network across Europe
- Premium and economy vehicles available
- User-friendly online booking system
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility in vehicle rental
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
78
Prices:
$$
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:
81
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Wide range of luxury cars
- Flexible rental terms
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and flexibility in vehicle choice
Pricecarz
local
8.5
Locations:
21
Prices:
$$
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:
17
Prices:
$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental terms
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
- Personalized service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers

Recommendations for Belgian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You prefer recognized brands and extensive networks
Require guaranteed availability and support
Plan to travel across multiple regions or cities
Need vehicles suitable for business or formal travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Seeking cost-effective options
Staying primarily in urban areas
Interested in personalized or unique vehicle categories
Comfortable with app-based booking and management

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group, destinations, 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 trip.

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 USA.
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control.
- Consider your comfort level with manual driving in unfamiliar areas.
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.
- Confirm if your travel insurance covers car rentals abroad.
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 the same fuel level, most economical option.
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for a full tank, convenient but often more expensive.
- Same-to-Same
  Return with the 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, Timisoara
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation.
Transfagarasan Highway, Carpathian Mountains
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option.
Black Sea Coast, Danube Delta

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.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Romania?

Romania is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historical towns, and unique cultural heritage. Popular destinations include Bucharest, the medieval city of Brasov, and the scenic Transfagarasan Highway.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Romania, but for peace of mind during your trip, additional coverage is highly recommended. Insurance terms vary by provider, and what's included in your rental price may be limited. Selecting the right protection can help you avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses in case of an accident or theft.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car due to collision or theft.
€13-22/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
€4-7/day
Essential
Liability Insurance
Covers injury or damage to third parties and their property.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for you and your 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

US$0.00 - US$11,681.10

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$11,681.10

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 Car Rental Tips for Travelers from Belgium to Romania

Planning your car rental strategically can help you save money and enjoy a smoother experience during your trip from Belgium to Romania.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Secure your rental at least 2-4 weeks prior to traveling to ensure better rates and car availability.
Save up to 20%
Compare Rental Platforms
Utilize comparison websites such as QEEQ or Rentalcars.com to find competitive prices across various rental providers.
Save up to 25%
Choose Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Opt for a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid high refueling fees, and plan to refuel at reasonably priced gas stations nearby.
Save €15-40
Avoid Airport Pickups
Rent cars from locations outside the airport to avoid surcharges and higher rental rates.
Save up to €50
Check Insurance Options
Review your current travel insurance or credit card benefits to avoid purchasing duplicate insurance coverage.
Save up to €20 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 as a traveler from Belgium.

Hidden Fees
Be cautious of additional costs that might not be included in the initial car rental price.
- Airport surcharges (varies by location)
- Young driver fees apply for drivers under 23
- Additional driver fees may apply
- Extra charges for optional equipment like GPS or child seats
- Insurance coverage not always included in the base price
Insurance Requirements
Verify your insurance coverage before accepting offers from rental agencies.
- Confirm coverage provided by your travel insurance or credit card
- Understand the requirements for third-party liability insurance in Romania
- Check if full-coverage insurance is needed for peace of mind
Fuel Policies
Understand the fuel policies to avoid unexpected charges.
- Full-to-full policy is recommended
- Refill the tank before returning to avoid refueling fees
- Check for nearby fuel stations to the drop-off location
Vehicle Inspection
Document the condition of the car thoroughly during pickup and drop-off.
- Capture photos or videos of any existing damages
- Verify the condition of tires, lights, mirrors, and wipers
- Ensure the fuel level and mileage match the contract
Contract Terms
Review the rental agreement carefully to understand your responsibilities.
- Note mileage limits and surcharges
- Be aware of geographic restrictions on car usage
- Understand return policies, especially regarding timing
- Read cancellation and modification conditions
Pickup & Return Times
Plan your rental times to optimize convenience and avoid extra fees.
- Choose pickup and drop-off times carefully to align with your itinerary
- Late returns may incur additional charges
- Consider business hours of the rental location for smooth processes

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.

Traffic Rules Comparison Between Belgium and Romania

Belgium and Romania have distinct traffic regulations regarding speed limits, signage, alcohol tolerance, and lane usage. Familiarizing yourself with these differences is crucial for safe driving.

Speed Limits
RO
Urban areas: 50 km/h, rural areas: 90 km/h, highways: 130 km/h
BE
Urban areas: 30-50 km/h, rural areas: 70-90 km/h, highways: 120 km/h
Road Signage
RO
Romanian signs often include additional visual warnings
BE
Belgium signs conform strictly to EU standards
Alcohol Limits
RO
0.05% BAC limit
BE
0.02% BAC limit (stricter tolerance)
Lane Usage
RO
Overtaking primarily on the left; slower traffic keeps right
BE
Similar rules with overtaking procedures clearly marked
Mobile Phone Use
RO
Hands-free devices only
BE
Hands-free devices only
Seatbelt Usage
RO
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
BE
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Remember
- • Always carry your driving license and rental agreement when driving in Romania.
- • Romanian police are authorized to conduct routine checks; ensure compliance with traffic rules.
- • Familiarize yourself with local parking regulations to avoid fines.
- • Keep emergency contact numbers readily available in case of roadside assistance needs.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Belgium renting a car in Romania

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Romania if I have a Belgian driver’s license?

No, as an EU citizen with a Belgian driving license, you do not need an International Driving Permit. Your Belgian license is fully valid in Romania as long as it remains valid for the duration of your rental.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Romania?

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers between 21 and 24 may need to pay a Young Driver Surcharge. Some premium cars may require you to be 25 or older.

What documents do I need to present when picking up my rental car in Romania?

You’ll need your valid Belgian driver’s license (held for at least 1 year), your passport or Belgian ID card, and a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit or prepaid cards are not accepted for the deposit.

Which booking platform do you recommend for renting a car in Romania?

The only booking platform recommended is QEEQ. It allows you to compare prices from multiple local and international agencies, offers clear terms, and sometimes includes bundled insurance deals.

How far in advance should I book my rental car for Romania?

Book at least 1–3 months in advance, especially during summer or peak holiday seasons. This ensures availability and better prices, particularly for automatic cars.

What type of car should I choose for a road trip in Romania?

For city driving, a compact or mid-size car is sufficient. For mountain or rural areas, choose a compact SUV (like the local Dacia Duster) to handle varied road conditions.

Is it better to rent a manual or automatic car in Romania?

Manual cars are more common and cheaper in Romania. Automatic cars are less available and more expensive, so book early if you prefer automatic.

Can I take my Romanian rental car to neighboring countries?

Yes, but you must request cross-border permission from the rental company in advance. They will charge a cross-border fee and provide necessary documents. Unauthorized border crossing can void your insurance and incur heavy fines.

What is a one-way rental, and is it expensive?

A one-way rental lets you pick up a car in one city and drop it off in another. It’s convenient but usually comes with a significant one-way fee, which QEEQ will display during booking.

How can I add an additional driver to my rental agreement?

At pick-up, request to add extra drivers. All drivers must be present with their licenses and ID. An additional driver fee is charged per day by the rental company.

What costs make up the total car rental price in Romania?

Total costs include the daily rental rate, basic insurance (CDW/TP), taxes (VAT), and any extras such as GPS, child seats, extra drivers, or upgraded insurance.

What is the security deposit, and how much is it typically?

The deposit, held on your credit card, covers potential damages, theft, fines, or missing fuel. It ranges from €500 to €2000, depending on the car and insurance. The hold is released 7–14 business days after return if there are no issues.

What is Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), and does it fully cover damages?

CDW is not insurance but limits your financial responsibility for damage to a set excess amount. If damage costs exceed the excess, you only pay up to that amount.

What is Theft Protection (TP)?

Theft Protection limits your financial liability if the car is stolen, up to a specified excess amount. It’s usually included as basic coverage.

What does 'excess' or 'deductible' mean in car rental insurance?

The excess is the maximum amount you must pay out of pocket if the car is damaged or stolen. Reducing or removing the excess is possible with extra insurance.

What is Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) or 'full insurance' offered at the counter?

SCDW reduces your excess to a low amount or zero, making it 'full insurance.' It’s offered at the counter and is usually more expensive, charged per rental day.

How is 'full protection' from QEEQ different from rental company SCDW?

QEEQ offers third-party insurance. If you have an accident, you pay the excess first, then claim reimbursement from QEEQ’s insurer. This is often cheaper than buying SCDW at the counter.

Is there a truly 'worry-free' insurance option?

'Zero excess' policies provide the closest to worry-free coverage. This can be through the rental company’s SCDW or QEEQ’s third-party insurance. Note that tires, glass, roof, undercarriage, and keys may require extra coverage.

What does 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy mean?

You receive the car with a full tank and must refill it before returning. If not, you’ll be charged for the missing fuel plus a refueling fee.

What hidden fees should I watch out for?

Common hidden fees include airport surcharges, out-of-hours pick-up/drop-off, excessive cleaning, young driver, cross-border, and one-way rental fees.

What currency will I use at the rental desk in Romania?

Rentals are paid in Romanian Lei (RON) at the local counter, even if your booking shows euros. Your bank will convert the amount based on exchange rates.

Does my personal travel insurance cover rental car damages?

Generally not. Travel insurance usually covers medical emergencies and lost belongings, but not rental car damages. Always check your policy’s fine print.

What’s the difference between picking up a car at the airport versus in the city?

Airport pickups are convenient but may include an extra fee. City locations can be cheaper but require arranging transportation from the airport. For first-timers, airport pickup is easier.

What should I watch out for at the rental counter?

Stay calm. Counter staff may push you to buy extra insurance. If you have full insurance via QEEQ, politely decline. Verify all charges and terms before signing.

What should I photograph during the vehicle inspection?

Take a full video walk-around, close-ups of any scratches or dents, wheels, the dashboard (for mileage and fuel), and the windshield. This evidence can prevent disputes later.

How do I confirm the car includes the Romanian road tax (Rovinieta)?

All legal rental cars must have a valid Rovinieta (electronic road tax). Confirm verbally and ask the staff to note 'Rovinieta included and valid' on your contract.

What interior items should I check in the car?

Test the air conditioning, radio, windows, wipers, and lights. Ensure there is an emergency kit, spare tire or repair kit, reflective vest, and warning triangle as required by law.

What if I find unlisted damage during the inspection?

Do not leave with the car. Go back to the desk, show the damage, and have it recorded on your contract or the check-out form with staff confirmation.

Which contract details should I double-check before driving off?

Confirm your personal info, pick-up/drop-off times, final price, insurance coverage and excess, and fuel policy. Request an English version or explanation if unsure.

What should I do before driving away with the rental car?

Familiarize yourself with the car’s controls, adjust your seat and mirrors, and check the location of lights, wipers, and gearshift (especially for manual cars).

What are the key road rules in Romania?

Drive on the right. Headlights must be on at all times. Zero tolerance for alcohol (0.00% BAC). Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90–100 km/h outside, 130 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory for all.

Are Romanian highways tolled?

The Rovinieta covers all national and highway tolls. Only some Danube bridges require separate payment.

What is the general road condition in Romania?

Main highways and national roads are good. Secondary and rural roads may be narrow, potholed, or unpaved. Be prepared for mixed conditions.

Any special advice for famous scenic roads like Transfăgărășan and Transalpina?

They are stunning but challenging—open only June–October, full of tight curves, and may have animals on the road. Drive slowly and allocate plenty of time.

Is parking difficult in cities like Bucharest?

Yes, especially in city centers. Parking is expensive and often paid via machines or SMS (requires a Romanian SIM). Use hotel or public garages when possible.

Are petrol stations common, and how do I refuel?

Fuel stations are widespread. 'Motorină' is diesel, 'Benzină' is petrol (95 octane). Most stations accept credit cards; some require payment before fueling.

Are there any unique traffic signs or phenomena to watch for?

Expect signs warning of horse carts, wild animals, or poor road conditions. Romanian drivers can be assertive—drive defensively.

What should I do if stopped by Romanian police?

Pull over safely, keep hands visible, and present your license, car documents, and rental contract when asked. Fines are issued by ticket, not paid in cash to officers.

Can I use Google Maps or Waze for navigation in Romania?

Yes, both work well. Waze provides real-time updates. To avoid roaming charges, buy a local SIM or download offline maps before your trip.

Is it safe to drive at night in Romania?

Major roads are safe, but rural routes may lack lighting and have stray animals or pedestrians. Daytime driving is recommended for long rural stretches.

How do roundabouts work in Romania?

As in Belgium, vehicles inside the roundabout have right of way. Yield to traffic already circulating.

Are there special rules for trams in Romanian cities?

If a tram stops in the middle of the road without a safety island, you must wait behind it until passengers finish boarding or alighting.

What should I do if the car breaks down on the road?

Turn on hazard lights, move to a safe spot, wear the reflective vest, and place the warning triangle. Call the 24/7 roadside assistance number from your rental contract.

What’s the procedure if I have a minor accident with no injuries?

Call the rental company immediately for instructions. Complete the European Accident Statement with the other driver. Some companies require all accidents to be reported to the police. Do not settle privately.

What if there’s a serious accident involving injuries?

Dial the European emergency number 112 for police and ambulance. After ensuring safety, notify the rental company. A police report is mandatory for insurance claims.

How much time should I allow for car return, and what’s the process?

Arrive at least three hours before your flight. Return the car to the designated area, have it inspected with staff present, and complete the check-in form.

How do I avoid disputes over 'new damage' when returning the car?

Insist on a joint inspection. Show your pick-up photos/videos if needed. Have the staff sign the return form confirming the car’s condition and keep a copy.

What should I do about fuel before returning the car?

Refuel within 5–10 km of the return location. Keep the last fuel receipt as proof. Staff may ask to see it.

How soon is the deposit released after returning the car?

The hold is released 7–14 business days after the car is checked and no fines are pending. Sometimes it can take longer depending on your bank.

What if I receive a traffic fine after returning to Belgium?

The fine is sent to the rental company, who will charge your credit card for the fine plus an administration fee. Always follow local traffic laws to avoid this.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Romania for Belgian Travelers

Embarking on an adventure from Belgium to Romania is thrilling, and renting a car offers unmatched freedom. If you're a Belgian citizen, you might wonder:

Can Belgian Citizens Drive in Romania with a Rental Car?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Belgian Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Romania?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Smart Car Rental Tips for Travelers from Belgium to Romania

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rules Comparison Between Belgium and Romania

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations