This guide covers all important aspects, from legal requirements to helpful tips, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable driving experience during your Italian vacation. Stay informed for a worry-free journey!
Yes, Brazilian travelers can drive rental cars in both the USA and Italy when they meet licence, ID, payment, and age requirements. Rules may vary by offer, but in all cases you must carry your Brazilian licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid passport at the rental desk.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet (only where explicitly accepted by the offer; Brazilian licences are generally not Roman alphabet and should be accompanied by an IDP).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards vary by offer and may include Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Debit cards are not accepted for these offers.
Age requirements:
Across the listed offers, the permitted driving age ranges from 18–99 years old, depending on car type and supplier. Many offers require a minimum age of 19–25. Young driver surcharges commonly apply, for example: 19–21 or 19–25 years old may be charged about US$11–59 per day (or capped for the rental); in the USA, 20–24 year‑olds may be charged around US$25 per day. Some offers also add fees for older drivers (typically 70+ or 75+). Always check the exact age band and fee for your selected car.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore reliable and diverse car rental options when traveling within Italy, ranging from well-known global chains to innovative local providers.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands

Europcar
Locations:
806Prices:
$$-$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and eco-conscious customers
Hertz
Locations:
606Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
Locations:
865Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility
SIXT
Locations:
542Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers looking for flexibility and variety in vehicle choice
Hertz
Locations:
1172Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
NOLEGGIARE
Locations:
502Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
RentSmart24
Locations:
31Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
Sicily By Car
Locations:
697Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly options with reliable service
Rental Plus
Locations:
36Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local residents
Felirent
Locations:
71Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and localsChoosing the right rental car can make your journey 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.
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.
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 cars in IT, as they are more common than automatic cars.
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 BR insurance or travel insurance covers rentals.
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.
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.
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
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy.
Rome, Milan, FlorenceMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation.
Tuscany countryside, Amalfi CoastConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option.
Sicily, Sardinia, Ligurian CoastCompare with Confidence on QEEQ
Italy is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and scenic beauty. From the romantic canals of Venice to the ancient ruins of Rome, and the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, travelers can explore an array of iconic destinations. Renting a car enables you to experience the vibrant cities, serene countryside, and stunning coastal routes at your own pace.
Traveling from Brazil to Italy requires understanding local car insurance requirements. Basic coverage is mandatory, but additional protection ensures peace of mind by covering unforeseen incidents. Familiarize yourself with options available for foreign drivers in Italy.
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Italy. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Traveling from Brazil to Italy can be exciting, and saving money on your car rental is easy with these practical tips. Ensure a stress-free experience by planning ahead and staying informed.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Italy.
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.
While Brazil and Italy share some common traffic regulations, differences exist in speed limits, alcohol tolerance, and signage conventions. It's important for travelers to familiarize themselves with these distinctions.
Pedestrian Crossings
Vehicles must stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings.
Vehicles are encouraged to yield but not always required to stop.
Alcohol Tolerance
0.05% BAC limit with strict penalties.
0.06% BAC limit with less stringent enforcement.
Highway Speed Limits
130 km/h on highways unless otherwise specified.
110-120 km/h on highways depending on the state.
Parking Zones
Colored lines indicate parking zones: blue for paid parking.
No standardized color system; signage indicates restrictions.
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free devices only while driving.
Hands-free devices only while driving.
Seatbelt Use
Mandatory for all occupants.
Mandatory for all occupants.
Traffic Light Priority
Traffic lights have priority over other signs unless directed otherwise.
Traffic lights have priority over other signs unless directed otherwise.
Common questions for travelers from Brazil renting a car in Italy