Car Rental in Maine for Canadian Travelers

Exploring Maine is an incredible opportunity for Canadian travelers, offering lush landscapes and unique destinations. However, navigating car rentals and driving regulations in the U.S. can pose questions. This section provides clear guidance.

Can I drive in the U.S. with my Canadian license?
Do I need additional insurance to rent a car in Maine?
How much are typical rental costs?
Are cross-border one-way rentals available?
What are the differences in road regulations?

This guide is designed to provide Canadian travelers with comprehensive answers, making the process of renting and driving in Maine both simple and stress-free.

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in Montenegro?

Yes, Canadian travelers can legally drive in Montenegro with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
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 are required. Accepted cards include Visa and MasterCard.
Age requirements:
Drivers aged 18 to 95 are generally allowed to rent vehicles. Young drivers aged 18 to 25 may incur a fee of US$ 11.81 per day.

Ready to Rent?

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

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

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

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

GREEN MOTION
global
8.5
Locations:
39
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Focus on sustainability
- Wide range of vehicle categories
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
Best for
Environmentally conscious travelers seeking cost-effective rentals
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
14
Prices:
$$$
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
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
21
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Global presence with convenient locations
- User-friendly online booking system
- Excellent customer service
- Variety of vehicle options including SUVs and luxury cars
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
19
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong presence in Europe
- Online booking and management
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Loyalty program for frequent renters
Best for
Leisure travelers and business needs
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Easy online booking
- Express pick-up options
- Excellent customer service
- Unlimited mileage on select vehicles
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
37
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and variety
GOLDCAR
global
8.5
Locations:
7
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicle options
- Easy online booking
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
4
Prices:
$$$
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

MontenegroCar
local
8.5
Locations:
6
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized service
- Flexible rental periods
- Local knowledge and support
- Competitive pricing
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly options and local expertise
U-SAVE
local
8.5
Locations:
27
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized customer service
- Quick pick-up and drop-off process
- Flexible rental options
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals

Recommendations for Canadian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in the United States
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Require 24/7 customer support
Traveling for business or important commitments

Choose Local Brands If:

Looking for cost-effective options
Staying primarily within Maine
Interested in unique vehicle types
Comfortable using app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip 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 the USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- 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 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
Portland, Augusta, Bangor
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-state
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
coastal Maine, Acadia 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

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What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

The USA offers diverse iconic routes and popular city loops that suit different travel styles. You can also choose one-way rentals to explore more efficiently.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in the USA, but for peace of mind on a long road trip, extra coverage is strongly recommended. Insurance rules vary by state, and what's included in your rental price may be minimal. Choosing the right protection can save you from high out-of-pocket costs in case of an accident or theft.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
CAD $20-33/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
CAD $7-11/day
Essential
Liability Insurance
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
CAD $7-13/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 Montenegro. 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

$585.92 - $5,316.79

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$585.92 - $5,316.79

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?

Maximize your savings when renting a car in the USA by employing strategic planning and making informed decisions. This guide is tailored specifically for Canadian travelers heading to Maine.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Plan and book your rental car 3-6 weeks before your trip for the most competitive rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
Save up to 35% off peak pricing
Use Comparison Sites
Platforms like Rentalcars.com, Kayak, and Expedia allow you to compare prices from multiple providers in one place.
Save up to 20% through price comparison
Choose the Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Opt for rental deals where you pick up the car with a full tank and return it the same way. This is often cheaper than prepaid fuel options.
Save $15-30 CAD per rental
Avoid Airport Pickups
Rental locations in city centers are often cheaper than airport locations due to additional fees and taxes at the airport.
Save $20-45 CAD per day
Consider Economy Cars
Choose compact or economy cars as they are more fuel-efficient and typically cheaper.
Save $10-25 CAD per day
Decline Extra Insurance
If you have travel insurance or credit cards with rental coverage, you can often decline the extra insurance offered by rental companies.
Save $15-25 CAD per day

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 the USA.

Hidden Fees
Watch out for extra charges that aren't included in the base price.
- Airport surcharges ($5-15/day)
- Young driver fees (under 25)
- Additional driver fees
- Equipment rentals (GPS, child seats)
- Toll road transponders
Insurance Pressure
Rental agents often push expensive insurance at pickup.
- Check your existing coverage first
- Credit card benefits may cover you
- Don't feel pressured to buy on the spot
- Understand what's actually needed
- Third-party insurance can be cheaper
Fuel Policies
Different fuel return policies can significantly impact costs.
- Full-to-full is usually cheapest
- Prepaid fuel is often overpriced
- Find gas stations near return location
- Keep fuel receipts as proof
- Return with same fuel level
Vehicle Inspection
Thorough inspection prevents disputes later.
- Take photos/videos of all damage
- Check tires, lights, and mirrors
- Test all electronics and A/C
- Document interior condition
- Note fuel level and mileage
Contract Terms
Read the fine print to avoid surprises.
- Mileage restrictions and fees
- Geographic driving limitations
- Return time policies (grace periods)
- Modification and cancellation terms
- Damage assessment procedures
Pickup & Return Times
Timing can affect your rental costs and experience.
- Plan arrival during business hours
- Allow extra time for airport locations
- Late returns may incur full-day charges
- Early returns rarely get refunds
- Rush hour affects travel to/from locations

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
ME
Allowed after full stop (unless prohibited by sign)
CA
Not allowed at red lights
School Buses
ME
Must stop when school bus has flashing red lights
CA
No special school bus rules
Highway Passing
ME
Pass on the left, slower traffic keeps right
CA
Similar, but passing on right sometimes allowed
Blood Alcohol Limit
ME
0.08% BAC (varies by state)
CA
0.02% BAC (much stricter)
Mobile Phone Use
ME
Hands-free only in most states
CA
Hands-free only
Seatbelt Laws
ME
Mandatory for all occupants in most states
CA
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
ME
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 Montenegro

What documents do I need to rent a car in Montenegro? Can I use my Canadian driver's license?

Yes, your valid Canadian provincial driver's license (e.g., Ontario G license) is accepted. However, it's strongly recommended to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the CAA before your trip, as some rental companies may require it and it helps overcome language barriers.

Is there an age restriction for renting a car in Montenegro?

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held their license for at least 2 years. Drivers under 25 often pay a 'young driver surcharge.' Some premium models may have higher age requirements (25 or 28).

How far in advance should I book my rental car?

Book at least 1-3 months ahead, especially for travel during July and August. Early booking secures better rates and more vehicle options, particularly for automatic cars.

What’s the best way to reserve a rental car?

Use a comprehensive comparison platform like QEEQ for booking. These sites aggregate prices and packages from multiple international and local providers, giving you more choices and better deals.

What type of car is recommended for driving in Montenegro?

A compact or mid-size car (e.g., VW Golf, Renault Clio) suits most travelers and is ideal for Montenegro’s narrow roads and old towns. For mountain or off-road driving, consider a small SUV.

Are automatic cars easy to find in Montenegro?

Automatics are available but less common and typically cost 20–40% more than manuals. Book as early as possible if you prefer automatic.

Should I pick up my rental car at Tivat (TIV) or Podgorica (PGD) airport?

Choose based on your itinerary. Tivat is better for Kotor Bay and the coast, while Podgorica is ideal for the capital, Skadar Lake, or northern mountains. Both airports have a good selection of rentals.

Is renting a car in the city cheaper than at the airport?

Sometimes. Airport locations often charge an 'airport fee,' but offer more convenience. Compare prices; if city rates are significantly lower and accessible, consider city pickup.

Do I need to register additional drivers?

Yes, every person who plans to drive must be registered in the rental contract. Failing to do so voids the insurance for unregistered drivers. Adding extra drivers usually incurs a daily fee.

What is the typical cost of renting a car in Montenegro (in CAD)?

Prices vary by season and car type. In low season, an economy manual may cost $30-45 CAD per day; in high season, $70-100 CAD per day. Automatics and SUVs cost more. Always budget for insurance and extra fees.

What insurance is included in the rental price?

Basic rental rates usually include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection, but these have high deductibles (typically €800–2,000). This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket for any damage.

Should I purchase extra insurance? What is it called?

Highly recommended. Super CDW (SCDW) or Full Protection reduces your deductible to zero or a low amount. Montenegro’s challenging roads make full coverage a wise choice.

Does my Canadian credit card’s rental insurance work in Montenegro?

Check with your credit card provider before departure. Many Canadian premium cards offer rental coverage, but Montenegro and some Balkan countries are often excluded. Get written confirmation of coverage.

Is a security deposit required? How much?

Yes, nearly all companies require a deposit, usually equal to the insurance deductible, up to €2,000. Buying full insurance reduces or eliminates the deposit. The deposit is held by pre-authorization on your credit card.

What currency should I pay with? Can I use my Canadian credit card?

Montenegro uses the Euro (EUR). Canadian credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted. Always choose to pay in euros rather than CAD to avoid unfavorable dynamic currency conversion fees.

What is the fuel policy? Which should I choose?

The 'full-to-full' policy is most common and fair – pick up and return with a full tank. Always keep your last fuel receipt. Avoid 'full-to-empty' as rental company fuel charges are higher.

Are there any hidden fees I should watch for?

Watch for young driver fees, extra driver charges, airport surcharges, one-way fees, GPS or child seat rental, and cross-border 'green card' fees. Read the terms carefully during booking.

What’s the pickup process like? How long does it take?

Allow 30–60 minutes. Present your reservation, passport, Canadian license, IDP (if needed), and credit card. The agent will verify documents, offer extra insurance, and finalize the contract.

What should I focus on during the vehicle inspection?

Take a 360° video and photos of the car before leaving the lot. Check for all existing scratches, dents, wheel or windshield damage, interior cleanliness, and confirm fuel and mileage match the contract.

What if I find damage not listed on the contract?

Immediately inform the rental staff and have them record the new damage on the vehicle condition report. Do not drive away until the documentation is updated and signed.

What mandatory items must be in the car by law?

Montenegrin law requires a reflective vest (inside the cabin), first aid kit, and warning triangle. Check these are present before leaving the pickup location.

How do I tell if the car uses petrol or diesel?

The contract and fuel cap label indicate fuel type (e.g., 'Diesel' or 'Unleaded 95'). Double-check before refueling, as misfuelling can cause severe and uninsured damage.

What if the rental agent doesn’t speak English?

Be patient, use simple language and gestures. Google Translate is helpful. Having your IDP and printed reservation helps communication.

Can I pick up the car outside normal office hours?

Some airport locations offer 24-hour service, but most charge an 'out-of-hours' fee for late-night or early-morning pickups. Confirm and arrange this during booking.

What are Montenegro’s road conditions like compared to Canada?

Main roads and highways are good, but mountain and rural roads can be narrow, winding, and lack guardrails. Driving requires more caution and confidence than in Canada’s wide, straight roads.

What is the local driving style?

Montenegrin drivers are often considered aggressive, with frequent overtaking and close following. Stay calm, drive defensively, and don’t feel pressured if tailgated.

What key traffic rules should I know?

Drive on the right. Headlights must be on at all times. Always wear seatbelts. Zero tolerance for drinking and driving (limit 0.03% BAC). No handheld phone use while driving. Yield to vehicles already in roundabouts.

What are the speed limits?

Typically 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h outside towns, and 100 km/h on expressways. Always follow posted speed signs, as limits change frequently and police use speed traps.

Is parking easy in popular towns like Kotor or Budva?

Parking is scarce and expensive in peak season. Look for paid lots outside the old towns. Illegal parking is heavily fined and cars may be towed.

Are gas stations common? Can I pay by credit card?

Gas stations are frequent in populated areas and along main roads. Credit cards are widely accepted, but in remote areas, fill up when your tank drops below half.

Should I use Google Maps or rent a GPS?

Google Maps works well in Montenegro. Download offline maps as a backup. Renting a GPS is an option but often costly.

What should I do if stopped by police?

Stay calm and polite. Pull over safely, open your window, and keep hands visible. Present your license, IDP, rental contract, and car documents when asked.

Are there toll roads in Montenegro?

The main toll is the Sozina Tunnel (connecting the coast and Podgorica), costing €2.5. Pay by cash or credit card.

Any tips for driving the Kotor Serpentine (mountain switchback road)?

Drive uphill for more security (being on the mountain side). Go slowly, use your horn before blind curves, and be ready to yield in tight spots. The views are spectacular but the road is challenging.

What if the car breaks down or has a flat tire?

Ensure your safety, wear the reflective vest, and set out the warning triangle. Call the rental company’s emergency number provided in your contract. Do not attempt major repairs yourself.

What’s the procedure if I have an accident?

Call the police (dial 122) for any accident, no matter how small, and get a police report—this is required for insurance claims. Also notify the rental company immediately.

Can I drive the rental car into neighboring countries (e.g., Croatia, Bosnia, Albania)?

Most companies allow cross-border travel, but you must declare your plans at pickup and pay a 'cross-border fee.' They’ll provide a 'Green Card' (international insurance document).

What is a 'Green Card' and how much does it cost?

A Green Card proves your car has third-party liability insurance abroad. It’s required for border crossings and costs €20–50, depending on the company and destination countries.

Any tips for crossing from Montenegro to Croatia (Dubrovnik)?

This is a popular route. Expect long waits at the border in summer—allow 2–3 hours. Bring your passport, car documents, and Green Card. Ensure your Canadian passport meets Croatia’s entry requirements.

What about driving to Bosnia or Albania?

You’ll need the Green Card. Roads may be rougher, and Albanian drivers are known for chaotic traffic. Drive cautiously and be prepared for more variable road conditions.

Do I need to pay a 'tourist tax'? Is it related to car rental?

Tourist tax is paid at your accommodation, not related to car rental. Rental companies may ask for your lodging address for their records.

How do I handle parking or speeding fines?

Pay fines promptly at a local post office or bank. If returning the car soon, ask the rental company for assistance. Ignoring fines can result in additional charges to your credit card.

Is it safe to drive in Montenegro in winter? Do I need winter tires?

Coastal areas are mild, but northern mountains can be hazardous in winter. From November 15 to April 1, winter tires are mandatory. Confirm with the rental company that your car is properly equipped.

Are there car ferries in Montenegro?

Yes, the Kamenari-Lepetane ferry crosses Kotor Bay and saves about 45 minutes of driving. It costs around €5 per car and tickets are purchased on-site.

What should I do before returning the car?

Refuel (if on a full-to-full policy) near the drop-off point and keep the receipt. Clean out personal belongings and ensure the car is reasonably clean to avoid extra charges.

What is the return inspection process?

Staff will inspect the car’s interior and exterior, fuel level, and mileage. They’ll compare with the condition report from pickup. Accompany the inspection for transparency.

What if there’s a dispute about damage when returning the car?

Show your pre-rental photos and videos as evidence. If you purchased full insurance, you’re generally covered. Without it, you may be liable for the deductible.

When will my deposit be refunded?

Deposits are usually released within 7–14 business days, depending on your card issuer. If it’s not refunded after a month, contact the rental company and your bank.

Can I return the car earlier or later than scheduled?

Returning early rarely results in a refund. Late returns require advance notice and approval; otherwise, you may be charged hefty penalties or even reported for theft.

Why did I see a charge from the rental company on my credit card months after my trip?

This is often for delayed traffic or parking fines plus the company’s admin fee. Contact the rental company for a copy of the fine. Always obey traffic rules and address fines promptly.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Maine for Canadian Travelers

Exploring Maine is an incredible opportunity for Canadian travelers, offering lush landscapes and unique destinations. However, navigating car rentals and driving regulations in the U.S. can pose questions. This section provides clear guidance.

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in Montenegro?

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 the USA?

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