Albania car rental guide
What Documents Do I Need to Rent a Car in Albania?
The document list itself is short, but one detail catches visitors out more than any other: whether their home licence needs an International Driving Permit to go with it.
The core documents
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Valid driving licence | Held for the minimum period the supplier requires, usually one to two years |
| Passport or national ID | EU/EEA visitors can often use a national ID; others typically need a passport |
| Payment method | A card in the main driver's name for the deposit, though cash-deposit options exist with some suppliers |
When you actually need an International Driving Permit
A licence printed in English or in the Albanian alphabet is normally accepted on its own. If yours is in a different script or language, get an International Driving Permit before you travel — it's a translation document, not a separate qualification, and it's far easier to arrange at home than after landing in Tirana.
Minimum age and licence history
Most suppliers set a minimum driver age around 21, sometimes higher for larger cars or premium categories, and expect at least one to two years of driving experience. A younger driver surcharge is common below that threshold rather than an outright refusal, so check the specific offer if you're near the cutoff.
What to bring to the pickup counter
Bring physical copies, not just photos on your phone — some pickup points, particularly smaller offices outside Tirana, still prefer to see the originals. If you booked online, print or download the confirmation as well, since signal at some smaller airports and coastal offices isn't always reliable.
FAQ
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Albania?
Only if your licence isn't printed in English or the Albanian alphabet. Otherwise your national licence is usually enough on its own.
Can I use a national ID card instead of a passport?
EU/EEA visitors can often use a national ID; visitors from further afield typically need a passport.
What's the minimum age to rent a car in Albania?
Around 21 for most categories, though it varies by supplier and car class, and younger drivers may face a surcharge.
Do I need to bring paper copies of my documents?
It's safer to. Some offices, particularly smaller ones outside Tirana, still prefer originals over photos on a phone.
The document list rarely surprises anyone — the one thing worth checking well before your trip is whether your licence needs an International Driving Permit alongside it.