Croatia car rental guide
What Documents Do I Need to Rent a Car in Croatia?
As an EU member, Croatia keeps the document list simple for European visitors — the extra step mostly applies to travelers arriving from outside the EU/EEA.
The core documents
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Valid driving licence | EU/EEA licences accepted directly; other countries often need an IDP alongside |
| 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 no-deposit options exist on some listings |
When you need an International Driving Permit
A licence issued anywhere in the EU or EEA is accepted on its own. Visitors from outside that zone, particularly if the licence isn't in the Latin alphabet, should carry an International Driving Permit — it's a translation document, easier to arrange before you travel than after landing in Pula.
Minimum age and licence history
Most suppliers set a minimum driver age around 21, sometimes higher for larger cars, and expect at least one to two years of driving experience. A young-driver surcharge is more common than an outright refusal below that age, so check the specific offer if you're close to the cutoff.
What to bring to the pickup counter
Bring physical copies, not just photos — some smaller offices outside the main airports still prefer originals. Print or download your booking confirmation too, since mobile signal near smaller coastal pickup points isn't always reliable.
FAQ
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Croatia?
Not if your licence was issued in the EU or EEA. Visitors from further afield, especially with a licence not in the Latin alphabet, should carry one.
Can I use a national ID card instead of a passport?
EU/EEA visitors can often use a national ID; visitors from outside the EU/EEA typically need a passport.
What's the minimum age to rent a car in Croatia?
Around 21 for most categories, though it varies by supplier and car class, with younger drivers often facing a surcharge.
Do I need paper copies of my documents?
It's safer to bring them. Some smaller pickup offices outside the main airports still prefer originals over photos on a phone.
For EU/EEA visitors, the paperwork is genuinely simple — the IDP question is the one detail worth checking in advance if you're travelling from further afield.