Car Rental in Romania for Irish Travelers

Planning a trip to Romania and thinking about driving? Renting a car offers great flexibility to explore the beautiful landscapes and charming towns of Romania. However, there are a few things Irish travelers should know before hitting the road:

Is my Irish driving license valid in Romania?
What car rental options are available for visitors from Ireland?
How can I ensure I get the best deal on car rentals?
Are there specific traffic rules I need to follow in Romania?
What type of insurance coverage is recommended?

This guide aims to provide you with clear answers to these questions, along with practical tips and advice for Irish citizens who are travelling to Romania and planning to rent a car. By the end, you’ll be ready to make informed decisions about car rentals in Romania.

Can Irish Citizens Drive in Romania?

Yes, Irish 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:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License
Notes: EU/EEA driving licenses are valid for car rental across the EU/EEA, as well as in Switzerland and the United Kingdom. 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.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, Diners Club, and JCB.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 21 and 74. Young drivers aged 21-24 incur a fee of US$ 11.80 per day, capped at US$ 177.05 for the rental period. Drivers aged 66-74 incur the same fee and cap.

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 reliable international chains and distinctive local providers to find the ideal option for your travel needs in Romania.

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:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
58
Prices:
$$
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:
$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive network across Europe
- Premium and economy vehicles available
- User-friendly online booking system
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility in vehicle rental
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
79
Prices:
$$
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 Irish Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You prefer a wide selection of vehicles.
You require nationwide support.
You value 24/7 customer service availability.
You prioritize familiarity with services.

Choose Local Brands If:

You want to experience unique offerings.
You aim to save on rental costs.
You are staying primarily in urban areas.
You prefer personalized and local expertise.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip 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.

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
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most Irish drivers prefer automatic for Romanian road trips
- Consider your comfort level with manual and automatic cars
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 Irish 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 the same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for 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
Transylvania, Maramureș, Danube Delta
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Black Sea Coast, Carpathian Mountains

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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No hidden fees
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What Are the Popular Destinations in Romania?

Romania offers a mix of historic cities, scenic countryside, and cultural landmarks that attract travelers from around the globe. Popular destinations include Bucharest, the capital known for its vibrant nightlife and historical sites; Brașov, nestled in the Carpathian Mountains and home to medieval architecture; and Sibiu, celebrated for its Germanic heritage and charming Old Town squares. Each city offers unique attractions, making Romania a versatile destination for all types of travelers.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in Romania, visitors from Ireland need to ensure they have appropriate insurance coverage. Basic insurance is mandatory for driving; however, additional coverage can provide peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen incidents.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car due to collision or theft. This is usually not included in the basic rental price and is strongly recommended.
€14-24/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage if the rental car is stolen. This is often offered as an add-on to the basic insurance.
€4-7/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL)
Covers damages caused to other people or their property. This may already be included in the rental cost, but it's important to confirm with the provider.
Included or minimal additional cost
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident. This is an optional coverage.
€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$11,803.53

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$11,803.53

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

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Romania?

Planning ahead and making informed decisions can significantly reduce your car rental expenses when traveling from Ireland to Romania. Here are some practical tips to help you save.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Secure your rental car at least 2-3 weeks before your trip to take advantage of early booking discounts and wider vehicle selection.
Save up to 20%
Compare Rental Companies
Use websites like Kayak or Rentalcars.com to compare prices from multiple companies and choose the most cost-effective option.
Save up to 25%
Choose the Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Opt for rental agreements where you return the car with a full tank of fuel. This avoids additional refueling charges.
Save €20-€40
Pick Smaller Cars
Compact cars are more fuel-efficient and generally cheaper to rent, making them ideal for navigating Romanian cities.
Save up to €10 per day
Review Insurance Options
Check if your travel insurance or credit card offers rental car coverage to avoid purchasing expensive add-ons from the rental company.
Save €15-€30

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 rental price.
- Airport surcharges (common in international rentals)
- Additional driver fees
- Young driver fees (if under 25)
- Optional equipment rental (e.g., GPS, child seats)
- Charges for crossing borders
Insurance Options
Understand the insurance requirements and options in Romania.
- Verify if your travel insurance or credit card covers rental cars
- Check collision and theft coverage specifics
- Local insurance policies may differ
- Confirm deductible amounts
- Avoid unnecessary insurance upselling
Fuel Policies
Fuel return policies vary and can impact your rental costs.
- Full-to-full policy is often the most economical
- Confirm the fuel level at pickup
- Prepaid fuel options may be more convenient but pricier
- Locate nearby gas stations before returning the car
- Keep fuel receipts for verification
Vehicle Condition
Inspect the car thoroughly to avoid disputes later.
- Document any existing damage with photos
- Check for scratches, dents, tire wear, and windshield cracks
- Verify the functionality of electronics and air conditioning
- Note the fuel level and mileage at pickup
- Ensure the spare tire and tools are present
Rental Agreement Details
Review the contract carefully to understand the terms.
- Mileage limits and fees for exceeding them
- Conditions for driving outside Romania
- Return time policies (late fees might apply)
- Cancellation and modification terms
- Procedures for reporting accidents or issues
Pickup and Return Times
Plan your schedule to avoid additional charges or complications.
- Ensure pickup and return align with business hours
- Late returns might incur full-day charges
- Early returns may not entail refunds
- Factor in potential traffic delays in urban areas
- Allow sufficient time for vehicle inspection at return

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.

Key Traffic Rule Differences Between Ireland and Romania

Ireland and Romania have differing traffic regulations, including speed limits, blood alcohol levels, and pedestrian priority rules.

Speed Limits
RO
Expressways: 130 km/h, Urban areas: 50 km/h
IE
Motorways: 120 km/h, Urban areas: 50 km/h
Alcohol Limits
RO
0.0% BAC - Strict prohibition
IE
0.5% BAC - Moderate allowance
Pedestrian Priority
RO
Pedestrians have priority at designated crossings
IE
Pedestrian priority varies and is less strictly enforced
Driving Side
RO
Right-hand side of the road
IE
Left-hand side of the road
Mobile Phone Use
RO
Hands-free use only
IE
Hands-free use only
Seatbelt Usage
RO
Mandatory for all passengers
IE
Mandatory for all passengers
Parking Regulations
RO
Parking allowed only in designated areas
IE
Parking allowed in designated spaces, some flexibility
Remember
- • Ensure your Irish driving license is valid for use in Romania.
- • Familiarize yourself with road signs and their meanings in Romania.
- • Carry necessary documentation, including rental agreement and insurance papers.
- • Always adhere to the local traffic laws to avoid fines or penalties.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Ireland renting a car in Romania

As an Irish citizen, do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent and drive in Romania?

No, you do not. Romania recognizes all valid EU-issued driving licenses. Simply bring your Irish (or any EU) plastic card driving license, ensuring it is valid for the entire rental period.

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

Generally, the minimum age is 21. Many rental companies charge a ‘young driver surcharge’ for drivers under 25. High-performance or luxury cars may require the driver to be at least 25.

Besides my driving license, what documents do I need to rent a car?

You’ll need your valid Irish/EU driving license, your passport for identification, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. Most companies do not accept debit cards for the security deposit.

How is driving in Romania different from Ireland, and how do I adapt?

Romania drives on the right, with left-hand drive vehicles, the opposite of Ireland. Practice in a quiet area first, and remember: keep right, take tight left turns and wide right turns.

What are Romanian road conditions like?

Major highways and national roads are generally good. Rural and mountain roads can be narrow, bumpy, or poorly lit. However, self-driving is still the best way to explore, just drive cautiously.

Should I choose a manual or automatic car in Romania?

Manual cars are more common and cheaper. If you’re not used to left-hand manual driving, pay extra for an automatic—this makes adapting to right-side driving easier.

What is the currency in Romania? Do I need cash for rentals and fuel?

The currency is Romanian Leu (RON). Most rental companies, petrol stations, and supermarkets accept cards, but carry some cash for small towns, rural areas, or parking fees.

What is ‘rovinieta’ and is it included in my rental?

Rovinieta is the Romanian road tax (electronic vignette) required on all highways and national roads. All rental cars must have a valid, activated rovinieta—no extra payment needed.

Can I drive a rental car to neighboring countries like Bulgaria or Hungary?

It depends on the rental company. Most allow cross-border trips to other EU countries for a fee, but you must declare it in advance. Unauthorized border crossings void insurance and incur hefty fines. Always check terms on QEEQ before booking.

What is the general driving culture in Romania?

Romanian drivers can be more aggressive than in Ireland—speeding, tailgating, and infrequent signaling are common. Stay calm, practice defensive driving, and strictly follow traffic rules.

How far in advance should I book my rental car?

Book at least 1–2 months ahead, especially for summer or if you want an automatic car. Early bookings secure better prices and more vehicle choices.

What rental platform do you recommend for booking a car in Romania?

I only recommend QEEQ. It aggregates offers from multiple suppliers, is user-friendly, clearly shows insurance options, and is ideal for planning your Romanian road trip.

What type of car should I choose for my trip?

For cities and short trips: economy or compact cars (easy to park). For long-distance or mountain trips: compact SUVs or mid-size cars (like Dacia Duster). For families/groups: large SUVs or MPVs.

How do I choose the right insurance?

Basic rates include Collision Damage Waiver and Theft Protection but with high excess. For peace of mind, buy full coverage or zero-excess insurance on QEEQ, which covers the deductible in case of damage.

What is a security deposit and how much is it?

A deposit is a sum held on your credit card for potential damages, fines, or fuel. Amounts range from €500 to €2,000 depending on car and insurance. With full insurance, the deposit is usually much lower. Refunds are processed 7–14 days after return.

Are there hidden fees on QEEQ?

QEEQ is transparent but always check the ‘Price Details’ section. Watch for young driver fees, additional driver fees, GPS/child seat rental, cross-border charges, and one-way rental fees.

Should I add an additional driver?

If you’re going on long drives, adding an extra driver is wise. All drivers must be present at pickup with valid licenses and passports. There’s usually a daily fee.

Do I need to rent a GPS navigation device?

Car rental GPS devices are expensive. Use Google Maps or Waze on your phone instead—both work well in Romania. Download offline maps and bring a car mount and charger.

Which fuel policy should I choose?

‘Full to Full’ is best: collect the car with a full tank and return it full. Avoid ‘Full to Empty’ as rental companies overcharge for fuel and you rarely use it all.

What should I do after my booking is confirmed?

Carefully read your voucher and check all details (pickup/return location, times, car, name). Print it or save it on your phone—you’ll need it at pickup.

Where do I find the rental desk at the airport?

At Bucharest Otopeni Airport and other major airports, rental desks are in or near the arrivals hall. Your QEEQ voucher lists the provider name and counter location.

How long does the pickup process take?

Allow 30–60 minutes. In peak season, expect longer waits. Have all your documents ready: license, passport, credit card, and voucher.

What if the staff pushes extra insurance at the counter?

This is common. If you already bought full coverage on QEEQ, politely decline their ‘super cover’ by saying: ‘Thank you, I am already fully covered by my third-party insurance.’

What should I check before signing the rental contract?

Check all fees match your booking, no unauthorized extras, confirm return time/location and fuel policy. Raise any questions before signing.

Can I leave immediately after getting the keys?

No! Always inspect the car thoroughly before driving off. If possible, do this with staff. Record all pre-existing damage to avoid disputes.

What should I check during the vehicle inspection?

Take 360° photos/videos, check for scratches, dents, paint chips, window/mirror cracks, tire condition, interior cleanliness, equipment function, and make sure the spare tire and tools are present.

What if I find damage not marked on the form?

Immediately notify staff and have them record and sign for the damage on the inspection form. Only documented damage is protected from liability.

How do I confirm the car’s fuel type?

Ask staff before leaving, and check the fuel label inside the filler cap. Using the wrong fuel can cause costly damage and is not covered by insurance.

How do I get comfortable with left-hand drive?

Adjust your seat and mirrors, practice shifting with your left hand (for manual), and get a feel for the car’s width—especially the right side. Take a short drive in a quiet area first.

Are there child seat requirements?

Children under 135cm must use an appropriate child seat. Rental seats are available but can be old or expensive—consider bringing your own from Ireland.

What are the standard speed limits in Romania?

Unless posted otherwise: 50km/h in cities, 90-100km/h on open roads, 130km/h on highways. Always watch for signage—speeding fines are common.

Are there any special driving rules I should know?

Yes: 1) Headlights must be on outside cities, day and night. 2) Zero tolerance for alcohol—any blood alcohol is illegal. 3) Seatbelts are mandatory for all. 4) Phone use requires hands-free.

Are fuel stations easy to find? How does refueling work?

Fuel stations are common on main roads and cities but rare in remote areas—fill up before mountain or rural drives. Most are attended: tell staff the fuel type and ‘full’ (plin). Pay at the register or pump.

What are the parking rules, especially in Bucharest?

Parking in cities can be difficult. Look for ‘Cu Plată’ (paid) zones—pay at meters, by app, or SMS. Free parking (white lines) is rare and hard to find. Never park where ‘Oprirea Interzisă’ or ‘Staționarea Interzisă’ is posted to avoid fines or towing.

What should I know about famous mountain roads like Transfăgărășan and Transalpina?

Both are stunning but open only from late June/July to late October (weather dependent). They feature many hairpin bends and steep climbs—drive slowly, during daylight, and stop only in designated spots.

What should I watch for when driving on rural roads?

Watch out for horse-drawn carts, livestock crossing, and potholes. Many rural roads lack lighting—avoid night driving when possible.

Are roundabout rules the same as in Ireland?

Yes, yield to vehicles already in the roundabout. The difference is you enter from the right and drive counterclockwise.

What should I do if stopped by the police?

Stay calm, pull over safely, keep your hands visible, and wait for instructions. Present your license, car documents, and passport if requested.

What should I do in case of an accident?

1) Check for injuries and ensure safety. 2) Turn on hazard lights and place the warning triangle. 3) Call 112 for emergencies. 4) Contact your rental company. 5) Complete the European Accident Statement with the other driver and take photos—never settle privately without notifying authorities.

Are Romanian road signs easy to understand?

Most follow international standards and are easy to recognize. Place names are in Romanian, but GPS navigation makes this manageable.

Do I need to watch out for trams in cities?

Yes, especially in Bucharest and Cluj. Trams have priority. If a tram stops at a station without a safety island, you must stop behind it until passengers have boarded or alighted.

Are there toll roads in Romania?

There are no classic toll booths. National and highway tolls are covered by the ‘rovinieta’. The only exception: the Fetesti-Cernavodă bridge over the Danube requires a separate payment, usually made at petrol stations after crossing or online.

What are the most common mistakes when switching to right-side driving?

1) Turning into the wrong lane, especially left turns. 2) Misjudging car position on the right—keep your body aligned with the lane center.

Is night driving safe in Romania?

It’s safe in cities and on major roads. Avoid rural or mountain roads at night due to poor lighting, unclear road conditions, and the risk of animals or horse carts.

How should I handle railway crossings?

Always slow down and look both ways, even if there are no lights or barriers. Many rural crossings have only a ‘STOP’ sign—stop completely before crossing.

What should I do to prepare before returning the car?

1) Refuel if your policy is ‘Full to Full’—keep the receipt. 2) Clean the interior—excessive dirt incurs fees. 3) Check for all personal belongings.

What is the return process like?

Drive to the designated return area. Staff will inspect the car against the check-out form, fuel level, and mileage. The process usually takes 15–20 minutes.

What if new damage is found at return?

If you bought full insurance, just fill out the paperwork—no payment needed. With only basic coverage, you’ll pay the excess. If there’s a dispute, your check-out photos/videos are crucial evidence.

What document should I get after returning the car?

Obtain a signed check-in form confirming the car’s condition and full tank. This proves you returned the car properly and protects you from later disputes.

When will my security deposit be refunded?

Deposits are typically released 7–14 days after return, once the company checks for fines or damage. If it takes longer than a month, contact your credit card provider and the rental company.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Romania for Irish Travelers

Planning a trip to Romania and thinking about driving? Renting a car offers great flexibility to explore the beautiful landscapes and charming towns of Romania. However, there are a few things Irish travelers should know before hitting the road:

Can Irish Citizens Drive in Romania?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Irish 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

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Romania?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Key Traffic Rule Differences Between Ireland and Romania

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations