Car Rental in Malta, The Complete 2026 Guide
Requirements, driving rules, and a full directory of trusted international and local car hire companies operating in Malta.
Do You Need a Car in Malta?
Malta is compact enough that many visitors get by comfortably without a car, especially if staying around Sliema and St Julian's or exploring Valletta on foot and by ferry. But a rental car changes what's realistically possible in a day, reaching quieter corners of the island, visiting several villages without waiting on bus timetables, or taking a spontaneous trip to Mellieħa or the Blue Lagoon in Comino becomes far more straightforward.
If you're planning to island-hop, a car also simplifies the Gozo ferry crossing, you can drive straight onto the ferry at Ċirkewwa and continue exploring Gozo without arranging separate transport on arrival.
Requirements & Documents
UK licence holders do not need an International Driving Permit. If your licence is issued in a non-Roman alphabet, such as Cyrillic or Arabic, bring an International Driving Permit alongside your original licence.
Car Hire Companies in Malta
International brands offer familiar booking and consistent fleets; local Malta operators often offer more competitive pricing and hotel delivery.
Collecting Your Car
Most international brands operate from the Park East building at Malta International Airport, adjacent to the departures terminal, with rental desks typically on the first floor. Many local Malta operators offer direct delivery to your hotel instead, including out-of-hours drop-off in some cases, worth weighing up against airport collection depending on your arrival time and itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Car Rental in Malta, FAQs
Do I actually need a car in Malta?+
It depends on your itinerary. If you're staying in one area like Sliema, St Julian's, or Valletta and mainly sightseeing within walking distance or by ferry, a car isn't essential, Malta's bus network and ferries cover the main routes. But if you want to explore at your own pace, reach quieter beaches, visit Gozo independently, or see multiple villages in a day, a rental car gives you far more flexibility than relying on public transport or taxis.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Malta?+
You'll need a valid driving licence that has been held for at least one year, plus a passport or ID card, and a credit or debit card from an internationally recognised provider such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. Most Malta car rental companies do not accept cash or prepaid cards for the security deposit.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Malta?+
The standard minimum age is 21, with your licence held for at least one year. Drivers under 25 typically face a young driver surcharge, and certain vehicle categories may carry a higher minimum age requirement. Always check the specific age policy with your chosen provider before booking.
Do I need an International Driving Permit for Malta?+
If your driving licence is issued in English or another Roman-alphabet script, an International Driving Permit generally isn't required. If your licence uses a non-Roman alphabet, such as Cyrillic or Arabic, you will need an International Driving Permit alongside your original licence.
Which side of the road does Malta drive on?+
Malta drives on the left-hand side of the road, the same as the UK, which UK visitors typically find straightforward. Roads can be narrow in older towns and villages, and roundabouts are common, so take extra care in denser urban areas like Valletta, Sliema, and Mdina.
What are the speed limits in Malta?+
Speed limits are generally 80 km/h on open roads and highways, and 50 km/h in built-up areas. Limits are clearly signposted, but given Malta's compact size and frequent villages, actual driving speeds are often lower in practice, particularly in town centres.
Are there toll roads in Malta?+
No, Malta has no toll roads. Once you've paid for your rental and any optional extras, there are no additional road charges to budget for during your trip.
Where do I collect my rental car at Malta International Airport?+
Car rental offices at Malta International Airport are located in the Park East building, adjacent to the departures terminal. Most major international brands operate from the first floor of this building, making it straightforward to collect your car shortly after landing.
Can local Malta car hire companies deliver the car to my hotel?+
Many local Malta car hire companies offer delivery directly to your hotel or accommodation, sometimes including out-of-hours drop-off for a small additional charge. This can be a convenient alternative to collecting from the airport, particularly if you're not renting for your entire stay.
Should I choose an international brand or a local Malta car hire company?+
International brands like Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Sixt offer familiar booking processes, consistent fleet standards, and often more flexible cancellation policies. Local Malta operators frequently offer more competitive pricing, a more personal level of service, and flexible extras like hotel delivery. Many visitors compare both before deciding, since local companies in Malta are generally well-established and reliable rather than a compromise on quality.
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