Car Rental Information for Travelers from Canada to North Macedonia

Planning to explore North Macedonia by car? As a Canadian traveler, navigating the rental and driving process in this region can feel challenging.
Here are some common concerns Canadians might have while considering car rental in North Macedonia:

Is my Canadian driver's license valid in North Macedonia?
What are the legal requirements for car insurance there?
What is the expected cost range for car rentals?
Are there any fees for cross-border travels or one-way rentals?
How do the driving rules in North Macedonia differ from Canada?

To make your journey smooth and hassle-free, this guide ensures you have all essential details. By the end, you’ll find every answer needed to confidently navigate North Macedonia by car.

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in North Macedonia?

Yes, Canadian travelers can legally drive in North Macedonia with the proper documentation. Ensure you meet the age requirements and provide the necessary documents at the rental desk.

Form of ID:
A valid passport
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 21 and 75. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 20.87 per day.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

Check Rates

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for travelers from Canada heading to Macedonia.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Easy online booking
- No hidden fees
- Wide selection of vehicles
- 24/7 customer support
Best for
Leisure travelers and families
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
29
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient locations worldwide
- User-friendly mobile app
Best for
Travelers seeking affordable luxury options
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
33
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network across the country
- Diverse fleet of vehicles
- Flexible rental options
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Leisure travelers and business professionals
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
0
Prices:
$$$
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
Enterprise
global
8.5
Locations:
18
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive branch network
- Excellent customer service
- Flexible rental options
- Enterprise Plus loyalty program
Best for
Leisure travelers and business rentals

AVANTCAR
local
8.5
Locations:
2
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
- User-friendly online booking system
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
GOLDCAR
local
8.5
Locations:
8
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Convenient locations in major cities
- Flexible rental options
- User-friendly website and app
- No hidden fees
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers looking for reliable options
INTERWAYS
local
8.5
Locations:
9
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient locations in 10082
- Wide variety of vehicle options
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local needs
Surprice Rent A Car
local
8.5
Locations:
5
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive rates
- Flexible rental terms
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off options
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and long-term rentals
Autounion
local
8.5
Locations:
7
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient locations in 10082
- No hidden fees
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals

Recommendations for Canadian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in Macedonia
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Want 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Want to save money
Staying in major cities only
Want unique vehicle experiences
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your 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, more common in CA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most CA drivers prefer automatic for MK road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving 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 CA 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 same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with 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
Skopje, Bitola, Prilep
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Ohrid, Lake Prespa, Mavrovo National Park

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.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

Check Rates

What Are the Popular Destinations in North Macedonia?

North Macedonia, located in the heart of the Balkans, offers diverse landscapes and historic cities perfect for exploration. Popular destinations include the vibrant capital of Skopje, the tranquil Lake Ohrid, and the historic town of Bitola. Consider one-way rentals to maximize your travel experience across the country's scenic routes.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in MK, but additional coverage is recommended for a worry-free experience. Insurance rules vary, and what’s included in your rental price may be minimal. Selecting the right protection can help avoid unexpected costs in case of accidents or theft.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damages to the rental car due to collision or theft, reducing your financial liability.
CA$20-30/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Provides coverage against the theft of the rental vehicle.
CA$8-12/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers costs for injuries or damages caused to others or their property.
Usually included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Offers medical coverage for you and your passengers in case of an accident.
CA$6-10/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 North Macedonia. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $9,686.40

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$292.96 - $3,874.56

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 Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking a car rental for your trip to Macedonia from Canada can be cost-effective with these smart strategies.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Secure your rental car at least 2-4 weeks before your trip to access better rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
Save up to 30%
Compare Prices
Utilize online platforms such as QEEQ or Kayak to compare rental prices from various providers.
Save up to 25%
Full Tank Policy
Opt for the "pick up full, return full" fuel option and locate nearby fuel stations for cheaper refueling.
Save approx. CAD 20-40
Use Credit Card Benefits
Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance or discounts.
Save on insurance fees, approximately CAD 50-100

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 North Macedonia.

Hidden Fees
Be aware of potential extra costs not included in the rental's listed price.
- Additional charges for international border crossings
- Charges for winter tires or other seasonal equipment
- Fees for one-way rentals
- Extra costs for premium insurance packages
- Late return penalties
Insurance Requirements
Understand the mandatory insurance requirements in North Macedonia.
- Third-party liability insurance is usually included
- Additional coverage for theft or damage
- Check credit card coverage before opting for rental insurance
- Verify the extent of coverage provided by the rental company
- Know the deductible amounts for accidents
Driving Requirements
Adhere to the local driving laws and regulations.
- A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers
- Use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited
- Observe speed limits and road signs
- Headlights must be on at all times during the day
Navigation Challenges
Plan your routes to avoid getting lost in unfamiliar areas.
- Roads in rural areas can be poorly marked
- GPS systems may not have updated maps
- Use offline maps as a backup
- Download local travel apps for navigation
- Ask for directions if unsure about routes
Vehicle Condition Check
Ensure the car's condition matches the rental agreement.
- Inspect the car thoroughly for any damages or scratches
- Check fuel level and mileage upon pickup
- Ensure tires and brakes are in good condition
- Test the lights, wipers, and other electronics
- Document the condition with photos or videos
Pickup and Return Timings
Timeliness can influence your rental experience.
- Plan pickups during operating hours to avoid extra fees
- Late returns may result in additional day charges
- Ensure you have ample time for vehicle inspection during return
- Avoid last-minute changes to your rental timing
- Confirm the exact return location to avoid confusion

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.

What Are The Differences Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

US and Polish traffic rules differ mainly in speed limits, signage units (miles vs. kilometers), alcohol tolerance (higher in the US), and right-on-red turns (more common in the US).

Right Turn on Red
MK
Allowed after full stop (unless prohibited by sign)
CA
Not allowed at red lights
School Buses
MK
Must stop when school bus has flashing red lights
CA
No special school bus rules
Highway Passing
MK
Pass on the left, slower traffic keeps right
CA
Similar, but passing on right sometimes allowed
Blood Alcohol Limit
MK
0.08% BAC (varies by state)
CA
0.02% BAC (much stricter)
Mobile Phone Use
MK
Hands-free only in most states
CA
Hands-free only
Seatbelt Laws
MK
Mandatory for all occupants in most states
CA
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
MK
Park in direction of traffic, colored curbs have meanings
CA
Can park against traffic on one-way streets
Remember
- • Traffic rules vary by state - check local laws
- • Police stops are more common - stay calm and polite
- • Keep hands visible during police interactions
- • Always carry your license and rental agreement

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Canada renting a car in North Macedonia

Can I legally drive in North Macedonia with a Canadian driver’s license?

Yes, you can, but it’s strongly recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid Canadian license. The IDP acts as a multilingual translation that helps avoid misunderstandings with police or rental agencies.

Where can I get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Canada?

You can obtain an IDP exclusively through the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). Visit any CAA branch before your trip; the process is simple and you’ll usually receive it the same day.

What documents do I need to rent a car in North Macedonia?

Bring your valid Canadian passport, Canadian driver’s license, International Driving Permit (IDP), and a credit card under the main driver’s name for payment and deposit.

What’s the minimum driving age for car rental in North Macedonia?

Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21. Drivers aged 21-24 will often incur a Young Driver Surcharge. Some premium vehicles require drivers to be 25 or older.

Can I rent a car if I’ve had my driver’s license for less than a year?

Generally, no. Most rental companies require you to have held your license for at least one year, sometimes two. Always check the rental terms before booking.

Should I buy travel insurance in addition to rental car insurance?

Absolutely. Travel medical insurance covers you for personal emergencies, while rental insurance covers the vehicle. They’re separate and both are important.

What is the official currency, and do I need it for car rental?

North Macedonia uses the Macedonian Denar (MKD), but rental payments and deposits are usually made by credit card in EUR or USD. A no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card is recommended.

Where should I book my rental car for North Macedonia?

Use QEEQ, a global car rental comparison platform. It’s user-friendly for Canadians, clearly displays prices, included insurance, and vehicle details.

How far in advance should I book my rental car?

Book at least 1-2 months ahead, especially for peak season (June–September). Early bookings offer more choices and better prices.

Should I choose an automatic or manual transmission?

If you’re used to automatics in Canada, select automatic in North Macedonia too. Manual cars are cheaper but automatics are easier on unfamiliar or mountainous roads.

What type of car is best for North Macedonia’s roads?

A compact or mid-size car is fine for most areas. If you plan to explore remote villages or mountain regions, a small SUV with higher clearance is a good idea.

What hidden fees should I watch for when booking?

Look for young driver fees, extra driver fees, GPS or child seat rental, and cross-border fees. QEEQ usually displays these transparently, but always review the final cost breakdown.

What’s the difference between full prepayment and partial prepayment?

Full prepayment means you pay the entire rental upfront, usually at a better rate. Partial prepayment requires a deposit now and the balance at pickup. Choose full prepayment if your plans are certain.

Which basic insurance is included in rental prices?

Typically, it includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), and Third-Party Liability (TPL). CDW and TP have deductibles; TPL covers damage to others.

Should I buy extra ‘full coverage’ or ‘zero deductible’ insurance?

Highly recommended! It reduces your deductible to zero, so you’re not out of pocket for minor damages or theft. It’s often cheaper to buy this via QEEQ than at the rental desk.

Does my Canadian credit card’s rental insurance cover me in North Macedonia?

Often not. Many North American credit cards exclude Balkan countries. Confirm with your credit card provider, but purchasing independent zero-deductible insurance is safest.

Where do I pick up my car at Skopje Airport?

Rental desks are in the arrivals hall of Skopje Airport. After you collect your luggage, look for your QEEQ supplier’s counter.

Will the rental desk try to upsell me extra insurance even if I prepaid?

Yes, this is common. Politely decline by stating you’re fully covered through your booking. Show your QEEQ voucher if needed.

How much is the security deposit, and how is it charged?

Deposits range from €300 to €1000, depending on the car. It’s usually held as a pre-authorization on your credit card and released a few weeks after return.

What should I check when picking up the car?

Inspect the car’s body for scratches, dents, or paint chips. Check tires, spare tire, interior features, all paperwork, and fuel level. Take photos/videos and ensure all damage is marked on the checkout form.

What do I do if I spot unmarked damage on the car?

Notify rental staff immediately and have the damage recorded on the inspection form and signed. Never drive off without official documentation of all pre-existing damage.

Do I need to rent a GPS device?

Not necessarily. Using your smartphone with offline Google Maps or Waze is usually better and cheaper. Download North Macedonia maps in advance or get a local SIM with data.

How do I get a local SIM card?

Buy a prepaid tourist SIM at Skopje Airport or local telecom stores (A1, Makedonski Telekom). Plans are affordable and provide ample data for navigation.

Is driving in North Macedonia right-hand or left-hand traffic?

Like Canada, North Macedonia drives on the right side with left-hand drive vehicles.

What are the main speed limits?

Urban areas: 50 km/h; rural roads: 80 km/h; highways: 130 km/h (some stretches are lower). Always obey posted signs.

Are headlights mandatory during the day?

Yes, dipped headlights must be on 24/7, year-round. Police will fine you if you forget.

What’s the law on drinking and driving?

Strict: the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.5‰), but for drivers with less than 2 years’ experience, it’s zero. The best practice is to avoid all alcohol if you’re driving.

Can I use my phone while driving?

Handheld phone use is illegal while driving. Use hands-free or car Bluetooth systems only.

Is seatbelt use mandatory?

Yes, everyone in the car—including rear passengers—must wear seatbelts.

Who has right of way at roundabouts?

Vehicles already inside the roundabout have priority. Yield to traffic from the left before entering.

What local driving habits should I be aware of?

Expect occasional aggressive overtaking, frequent horn use for various reasons, and cautious driving on narrow mountain roads. Uphill vehicles have priority on steep roads.

Will I encounter police checks?

Possibly. Remain calm and polite, keep hands visible, and present your passport, Canadian license, IDP, and car documents if requested. It’s usually a routine check.

Are fuel stations easy to find, and how are fuel prices?

Fuel stations are common on highways and near cities, but sparse in remote areas. Government-regulated prices mean little regional variation. Fill up when your tank is half-full, especially in mountains.

What type of fuel should I use?

Clarify with the agent if your car takes petrol (Benzin/Eurosuper 95/98) or diesel (Eurodizel). Using the wrong fuel can cause severe (and uninsured) damage.

How do I pay for fuel?

Most stations accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), but some rural stations may only take cash (Macedonian Denar).

Are highways (Avtopat) tolled, and how do I pay?

Yes, major highways have toll booths. Payment is usually in cash (MKD), but some booths accept credit cards. Keep small bills handy.

Is parking easy to find in cities?

In central Skopje and Ohrid, parking can be tricky. Look for official lots or metered street parking. Pay attention to time limits and payment methods.

What types of parking regulations exist?

Cities are divided into zones (red, yellow, green) with varying rates and limits. Pay at meters or kiosks, and never park on sidewalks or in unmarked spots—fines and towing are common.

Can I take my rental car into neighboring countries?

Usually yes, but you must inform your rental provider in advance and may need extra insurance or a Green Card for cross-border travel. Extra fees may apply.

Which countries can I visit from North Macedonia with a rental car?

Common neighbors include Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Greece. Always check with your rental company for specific permitted destinations.

What documentation do I need for cross-border trips?

Bring your rental agreement, car registration, insurance Green Card, and passports for all occupants. Some borders require additional paperwork or entry fees.

Are there any cross-border restrictions I should know?

Some rental companies restrict travel to certain countries or regions due to insurance or safety reasons. Always confirm before booking.

What should I do if I get into an accident?

Stay calm, ensure everyone’s safety, and call the police (dial 192) for an official report—required for insurance claims. Notify your rental agency as soon as possible.

What’s the emergency number in North Macedonia?

Dial 112 for general emergencies. Police: 192, Ambulance: 194, Fire: 193.

What if my car breaks down?

Contact the emergency roadside assistance number provided by your rental company—usually on your rental agreement. Remain with your vehicle in a safe spot.

How do I return the car?

Arrive on time, refuel to the agreed level (usually full-to-full), and have the car inspected for new damage. Get written confirmation of the return condition.

What happens if I return the car late?

Late returns may incur extra charges, often calculated hourly or as an extra day. Always notify the rental company if you’re delayed.

How long does it take to release my deposit?

Deposits are usually unfrozen within a few days to several weeks after return, depending on your bank and the rental company’s policy.

What if I get a traffic ticket or parking fine?

You are responsible for paying any fines. The rental company may charge your credit card for unpaid tickets plus a processing fee.

Can I extend my rental if I want to stay longer?

Contact QEEQ or your rental agency as early as possible to arrange an extension—rates may change, and availability is not guaranteed.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental Information for Travelers from Canada to North Macedonia

Planning to explore North Macedonia by car? As a Canadian traveler, navigating the rental and driving process in this region can feel challenging. Here are some common concerns Canadians might have while considering car rental in North Macedonia:

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in North Macedonia?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Canadian Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in North Macedonia?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are The Differences Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Planning to explore North Macedonia by car? As a Canadian traveler, navigating the rental and driving process in this region can feel challenging.
Here are some common concerns Canadians might have while considering car rental in North Macedonia: