Car Rental in Norway for US Travelers

Dreaming of a scenic road trip through Norway? Whether you wish to navigate the fjords or explore bustling cities, renting a car enables unparalleled flexibility and convenience for US travelers.

Can I rent a car in Norway with my US license?
What are the required insurance policies?
How expensive is it to rent a car in Norway?
Are there specific fees for additional drivers or young drivers?
What do I need to know about Norway's traffic laws and toll systems?

This guide provides essential details, ensuring your car rental experience in Norway is smooth and enjoyable. Discover tips, regulations, and best practices vital for your journey.

Can US Citizens Drive in Norway?

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

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License
Notes: *Driver's license, passport, and IDP must be issued in the same country.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Debit cards are also accepted, including UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 21 and 75 years old. No additional young driver fees are specified.

Ready to Rent?

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

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore reliable car rental options available in Norway. Both international and local providers offer diverse services to suit various travel needs.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
256
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
- Mobile app for easy bookings
Best for
Travelers seeking flexible options and luxury vehicles
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
578
Prices:
$$$
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
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
445
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
58
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- No hidden fees
- Simple online booking process
- Quick pick-up and drop-off
- Wide variety of vehicles
Best for
Leisure travelers and families
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
595
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Global presence
- Flexible rental options
- Loyalty program: Avis Preferred
- User-friendly mobile app
Best for
Travelers seeking reliable service and diverse options
Keddy by Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
17
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- User-friendly online booking
- Exceptional customer service
- Flexible rental periods
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Oslo Bilutleie
local
8.5
Locations:
2
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient location in Oslo
- No hidden fees
- Competitive pricing
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and locals

Recommendations for US Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You prefer a brand you recognize
Looking for worldwide customer service support
Need a wide selection of vehicles
Value consistency in service quality

Choose Local Brands If:

Seeking cost-effective options
Focusing on a specific region in Norway
Interested in unique car models
Comfortable with basic customer service

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 manual 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 exploring Norway's scenic routes
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Factor in your planned route distances when selecting mileage options
Fuel Policy
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
- Compare costs with local gas station prices when considering pre-purchase fuel options

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Norwegian Scenic Routes, Lofoten Islands
Vacation
SUV or Convertible with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Fjord tours, Arctic Circle adventures

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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Popular Destinations in Norway

Norway is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant cities. Travelers from the US often explore destinations like Oslo for its cultural offerings, Bergen for its proximity to the fjords, and Tromsø for its Arctic experiences. Renting a car allows you to enjoy scenic drives such as the Atlantic Ocean Road and the Trollstigen route, making your Norwegian journey unforgettable.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in Norway, having the appropriate insurance coverage is crucial. Although basic coverage is often included in your rental agreement, additional protection can offer peace of mind and financial security during your trip.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car in case of an accident or collision.
$15-$30/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Protects you from financial liability in case the rental car is stolen.
$8-$15/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages caused to other people or property while driving.
Usually included in the rental price
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Provides coverage for medical expenses resulting from an accident during the rental period.
$5-$10/day
Optional
Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW)
Reduces your financial responsibility even further in case of an accident.
$12-$25/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 Norway. 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

$1,291.27 - $3,017.45

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$1,291.27 - $3,017.45

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 Save Money on Car Rentals in Norway?

If you're a traveler from the US planning a trip to Norway, these tips will help you save on car rentals. Car rental rates in Norway can vary based on season, location, and demand, so plan wisely.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Start searching for car rental deals at least 4-6 weeks before your trip. This not only ensures lower prices but also better availability, especially in peak travel seasons.
Save up to 25%
Use Price Comparison Tools
Platforms like Rentalcars.com or Auto Europe can help you compare rates across multiple rental companies in Norway.
Save up to 20%
Opt for a Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Choose a rental company offering a full-to-full fuel policy, allowing you to refuel the car yourself, often at a lower cost than the company charges.
Save $30-$50
Avoid Extras You Don't Need
Skip add-ons like GPS or child seats if you can bring your own. Many smartphones can double as navigation devices.
Save $10-$15 per day
Check for Hidden Fees
Carefully read the terms to avoid unexpected charges such as additional driver fees or young driver surcharges.
Save $50-$100 on total cost

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 Norway.

Pricing Structure
Understand the cost components of your rental agreement.
- Expect higher prices in peak seasons
- Additional fees for winter equipment (e.g., snow chains)
- Charges for crossing international borders
- Be aware of VAT inclusion in pricing
Insurance Requirements
Ensure you're adequately insured for Norwegian conditions.
- Collision damage waiver (CDW) is often included
- Check for deductible amounts in policies
- Confirm coverage for driving in icy or snowy conditions
- Personal accident insurance may be offered
Fuel Policies
Different fuel return policies can significantly impact costs.
- Full-to-full is typically recommended
- Refueling services incur extra charges
- Locate nearby gas stations before returning the vehicle
- Keep receipts as proof of refueling
Vehicle Condition
Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before and after rental.
- Document any pre-existing damage with photos
- Check tires for snow readiness in winter
- Test all electronic features and lights
- Verify windshield wiper functionality
Driving Regulations
Understand local traffic laws and regulations.
- Norwegian speed limits are strictly enforced
- Driving on toll roads requires AutoPASS or equivalent
- Winter tires are mandatory during snowy months
- Be cautious of wildlife crossing in rural areas
Timing Considerations
Plan your pickup and return times carefully.
- Account for potential delays due to weather conditions
- Ensure vehicle pickup aligns with daylight hours for inspections
- Late returns may incur additional charges
- Confirm office hours for vehicle drop-off

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.

Key Differences Between US and Norwegian Traffic Rules

While US and Norwegian traffic systems share some similarities, significant differences exist in speed limits, alcohol tolerance, and rules for pedestrians.

Right Turn on Red
NO
Not allowed at red lights
US
Allowed after a full stop (unless otherwise prohibited by sign)
Speed Limits
NO
Measured in kilometers per hour (km/h)
US
Measured in miles per hour (mph)
Blood Alcohol Limit
NO
0.02% BAC (strict)
US
0.08% BAC (varies by state)
Pedestrian Right of Way
NO
Pedestrians have priority at marked crossings
US
Varies by state; drivers must generally yield
Mobile Phone Use
NO
Hands-free only
US
Hands-free in most states
Seatbelt Usage
NO
Mandatory for all occupants
US
Mandatory for all occupants in most states
Parking Rules
NO
Strict rules on where parking is allowed; blue zones require a parking disc
US
Parking rules vary significantly by city and state
Remember
- • Always carry your driver's license, car registration, and insurance documents.
- • Be aware of toll roads in Norway; most are automated.
- • Use headlights at all times when driving, even during the day.
- • Check for specific rules in cities, including congestion charges.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from United States renting a car in Norway

How far in advance should I book a rental car in Norway?

For peak travel seasons (June–August) or holidays, it's strongly recommended to book 3–6 months ahead. Car availability is very limited in popular areas like Lofoten Islands. For off-season, 1–2 months is usually sufficient.

Which car type should I choose for driving in Norway?

Norway's terrain is mountainous with many narrow roads. Compact or intermediate cars are easiest to handle, especially on winding fjord roads. If you're carrying a lot of luggage or heading to mountainous areas, an SUV might be a better choice. Avoid large vehicles unless you're experienced.

Should I rent an automatic or manual transmission car?

Manual cars are more common and cheaper in Norway. If you need automatic, specify this during booking and expect to pay more. Automatics are in high demand during peak season, so book early.

What platform should I use to book my rental car?

To efficiently compare prices and options, use a car rental comparison platform like QEEQ. It lets you view available vehicles, insurance packages, and reviews, helping you find the best-value rental without jumping between multiple sites.

Does Norway allow one-way car rentals? Are the fees high?

Yes, one-way rentals are possible, such as picking up in Oslo and dropping off in Tromsø. However, expect a one-way fee that can be several hundred dollars, depending on distance. The fee is clearly shown during booking.

Is it better to pick up my rental car at the airport or in the city?

Airport pickups are convenient but usually incur an 'airport surcharge.' If you want to save money and aren't in a rush, consider taking public transport to a city location. Always compare total prices.

Are there special requirements for renting a car in Norway during winter?

Yes. By law, cars must be equipped with winter tires (with or without studs) between November and April. Rental companies provide compliant tires, but there may be a small mandatory surcharge. For northern or mountainous areas, consider renting a 4WD/AWD.

Any special advice for renting a car in the Lofoten Islands?

Cars are in extremely high demand—book early! Roads are narrow, with many single-lane bridges and passing places. Compact cars are best. Main airports are Leknes (LKN) and Svolvær (SVJ).

What are Norway's child seat laws?

Children under 135 cm (about 4 ft 5 in) must use an appropriate child safety seat. Rentals are available from car companies for a daily fee. Some families bring their own, but it must meet European safety standards (ECE R44/04 or R129).

Can I drive my Norwegian rental car into Sweden or Finland?

Usually yes, but you must inform the rental company during booking or pickup. There may be a cross-border fee, and your insurance must be valid in those countries. Taking the car abroad without permission can void insurance and result in hefty fines.

Can I drive in Norway with my valid US driver's license?

Yes, you can drive in Norway with a valid US license for up to three months. The license must be a physical card, not a digital copy or photocopy.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

While legally you can drive with just your US license, it's strongly recommended to carry an IDP—a multilingual official translation. It helps avoid misunderstandings with police or in case of accidents. You can get one easily from AAA or AATA in the US.

What is the minimum age for renting a car in Norway?

Usually 19 or 21, depending on the company. Almost all companies charge a young driver surcharge for drivers under 25, which can be significant.

Is there a maximum rental age in Norway?

Most companies have no strict upper age limit, but some may require drivers over 70 or 75 to provide a doctor's certificate or pay higher insurance. Always check the terms before booking.

What documents do I need at the rental counter?

You need: 1) your passport; 2) your valid US driver's license (and IDP recommended); 3) a credit card in the main driver's name; 4) your rental voucher.

What does the total rental cost include?

Usually includes: base rental fee, mandatory insurance (CDW/LDW), theft protection (TP), unlimited mileage (usually), and VAT (MVA, 25%). Not included: fuel, tolls, ferry fees, young driver fees, extra driver fees, optional insurances.

What is CDW/LDW, and is it mandatory in Norway?

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) / Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) is not technically insurance but limits your liability to a fixed deductible. Third-party liability is mandatory and included in the rental fee. CDW/LDW is required by most companies.

Can I use my US credit card's insurance for my rental car?

Most Norwegian companies do NOT accept US credit card insurance as a substitute for their CDW. You must buy the company's CDW, but your credit card insurance may cover the deductible as secondary coverage. Check your credit card's terms for Norway.

Will a large deposit be held on my credit card?

Yes. The amount (security deposit) usually matches or exceeds your insurance deductible, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. It's not charged, just held. Make sure your card has enough available credit.

What hidden fees should I watch for?

Common ones: administrative fees for tolls/fines, airport/rail surcharge, out-of-hours pickup/return, extra driver fees, expensive refueling charges if not returned full.

What's the fuel policy for rentals?

Most rentals use 'full-to-full'—take the car with a full tank, return it full. Otherwise, you'll pay above-market fuel prices plus a service fee. Always refuel near the return location.

Does my rental include unlimited mileage?

Most Norwegian rentals offer unlimited mileage, but some special deals or long-term rentals may have limits. Always confirm during booking.

Will my insurance cover damage from driving on unpaved or F-roads?

Usually not. Most standard insurance excludes damage on unpaved, off-road, or F-roads. Any damage to undercarriage, tires, or suspension may be fully your responsibility.

What is Theft Protection (TP)?

TP (also called THW) reduces your financial responsibility if the rental car is stolen, usually to a set deductible. It's typically bundled with CDW in the base rental price.

Is the 'Super CDW' or zero-deductible insurance worth it?

Super CDW reduces your deductible to zero. It's expensive but gives peace of mind, especially given Norway's high repair costs and challenging conditions. It's a good investment for risk-averse travelers.

How do Norwegian roads differ from US roads?

Norwegian roads are often narrower, especially outside main highways. Many rural roads are single-lane with passing points. Roads are winding, with frequent tunnels and hairpin turns. All distances and speeds use the metric system (km, km/h).

What are the key traffic rules I need to know?

1) Yield to the right at intersections without signs or lights. 2) Always stop for pedestrians at crosswalks. 3) Yield to vehicles already in roundabouts.

What are the standard speed limits?

Unless posted otherwise: residential/city areas 30–50 km/h; rural roads 60–80 km/h; main highways 90–110 km/h. Speeding fines are extremely high.

How do I read Norwegian road signs?

Norwegian signs are mostly international. Notable ones: red triangles with a moose/deer mean 'watch for wildlife'; blue 'M' means a passing place; yellow diamond means you're on a priority road.

How do I drive in a roundabout (Rundkjøring)?

Slow down on approach, yield to traffic already in the roundabout (from the left), and signal right when exiting.

How strict are Norway's drunk-driving laws ('Promille')?

Extremely strict. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%. A single beer could put you over the limit. Penalties are severe—large fines, license suspension, or jail. Never drink and drive.

Are there rules about headlights?

Yes. You must use dipped headlights at all times, day or night, regardless of weather. Modern cars often have daytime running lights, but always check your lights are on.

What should I do if I encounter sheep or moose on the road?

Slow down and be ready to stop. Sheep and larger wildlife have road priority, especially in rural and northern areas. Be extra careful at dawn and dusk.

Is driving in big cities like Oslo or Bergen recommended?

Usually not. Traffic is heavy, parking is scarce and expensive, and there are congestion/low emission zones. Best to park outside the city and use public transport.

What are Norway's National Scenic Routes (Nasjonale turistveger)?

These are 18 designated roads showcasing Norway's most stunning scenery, with unique viewpoints and architectural features. Plan extra time for stops and photos.

How does Norway's toll road system ('Bompenger') work?

Tolls are fully automated via AutoPASS—no manual booths. Your license plate is photographed at gantries marked with AutoPASS.

How do tourists pay for tolls?

Rental cars are usually equipped with an AutoPASS chip. Drive as normal; the rental company receives the bill and charges your credit card, often adding a 20–25% admin fee. The charge may appear weeks or months after your trip.

What's it like taking a car ferry ('Ferge') in Norway?

Ferries are integrated into the road network, especially in the fjords. Queue at the terminal, follow crew instructions to board, and pay onboard (often by card) or via AutoPASS for some ferries. You can leave your car and enjoy the views.

Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?

For most short ferries, booking isn't needed or possible—it's first-come, first-served. For long-distance or sightseeing ferries (like Geirangerfjord), advance booking is recommended, especially in summer.

How do I use Norwegian gas stations, and how do I distinguish fuel types?

Most stations are self-service. 'Bensin' is gasoline (95 or 98), 'Diesel' is diesel. Always double-check your car's required fuel type—putting in the wrong fuel can cause major damage and isn't covered by insurance.

How do I convert US MPG to Norway's L/100km?

Use: 235 / (your MPG) ≈ L/100km. For example, 30 MPG ≈ 7.8 L/100km. Remember, 1 gallon ≈ 3.785 liters.

Are parking rules in Norway complicated? How do I pay?

City parking requires careful attention to signs, which indicate times, duration, and fees ('Avgift' means paid). Many use parking disks (P-skive) to mark arrival time. Payment is usually via app (EasyPark) or pay stations. Fines for violations are high.

Is renting an electric vehicle (EV) in Norway a good idea?

Absolutely! Norway has the world's highest EV adoption, with extensive charging infrastructure. Benefits include lower tolls/ferry fees, possible free city parking, and cheaper running costs.

How do I charge a rental EV in Norway?

Charging stations are widespread—at gas stations, malls, and dedicated sites. Pay using charging operator apps (Mer, Circle K, Recharge) or a chip provided by the rental company. Always confirm charging procedures at pickup.

Should I worry about EV range anxiety?

In most of Norway, especially the south and along main roads, range is not an issue; modern EVs cover 200+ miles. Use apps like A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) to plan charging stops. In remote north or mountains, plan ahead as charging stations are sparser.

Is renting an EV more expensive than a gasoline car?

EV daily rates may be slightly higher, but total costs are often lower due to cheap electricity, reduced tolls/ferry fees, and possible free city parking. For long trips, EVs can be more economical.

Will my rental EV come with charging cables?

Yes, rental companies provide necessary charging cables, usually including a Type 2 cable for slow charging. Ask for a demonstration at pickup.

What are Norway's emergency numbers?

Remember: 110 for fire, 112 for police, 113 for ambulance. Your rental contract should also include a 24/7 roadside assistance number.

What should I do if I'm involved in an accident?

1) Ensure safety: turn on hazard lights, wear a reflective vest, set out a warning triangle. 2) If anyone is injured, call 113 immediately. 3) Call police (112) if there are injuries, major damage, or wildlife involved. 4) Exchange info and take photos. 5) Notify your rental company as soon as possible.

What is the car return process and what should I check?

1) Refill fuel or charge battery as per your contract—keep the last receipt. 2) Clean the car if necessary; excessive dirt may incur a cleaning fee. 3) Inspect the car with staff and take photos for your records. 4) Settle all charges and review the final bill.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Norway for US Travelers

Dreaming of a scenic road trip through Norway? Whether you wish to navigate the fjords or explore bustling cities, renting a car enables unparalleled flexibility and convenience for US travelers.

Can US Citizens Drive in Norway?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for US Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Popular Destinations in Norway

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Norway?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Key Differences Between US and Norwegian Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations