This guide provides you with the information you need to enjoy a smooth car rental experience in Romania. By the end, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge to navigate Romania's roads confidently and hassle-free.
Yes, French travelers can legally drive in Romania with the proper documents. You must hold a full valid licence for at least 1 year and meet the rental company’s age and payment requirements.
Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for French renters.
Driving licence:
The main and any additional drivers must present a full, physical driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1 year. Accepted driving licence include:
• EU/EEA Driving License
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) or
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards may include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and JCB (some offers may only accept Visa and MasterCard). E‑voucher or printed voucher must be shown at pickup.
Age requirements:
General age limits: drivers must be between 21 and 74 years old, depending on the specific offer. A young driver surcharge applies for drivers aged 21–24. Based on the offer, this is either about US$ 5.88 per day, or about US$ 11.76 per day capped at about US$ 176.54 per rental. For some offers, an additional senior driver fee applies for drivers aged 66–74 (about US$ 11.76 per day, capped at about US$ 176.54 per rental).
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for French travelers visiting Romania.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
SIXT
Locations:
56Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking a mix of quality and affordability
PAYLESS
Locations:
12Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
Locations:
53Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
Locations:
57Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Europcar
Locations:
74Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility in vehicle rental
Avis
Locations:
79Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business professionals
KLASS WAGEN
Locations:
81Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and flexibility in vehicle choice
Pricecarz
Locations:
20Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
ADDCAR RENTAL
Locations:
32Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
SURPRICE RENT A CAR
Locations:
23Prices:
$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelersChoosing 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.
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 USA
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most European drivers prefer manual transmission
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and 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 French 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 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
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, TimisoaraMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Transfagarasan Highway, Carpathian MountainsConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Black Sea Coast, Danube Delta
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Romania is renowned for its medieval towns, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural heritage. Popular cities include Bucharest, Sibiu, Cluj-Napoca, and Brasov. Each offers unique experiences ideal for exploration with a car rental.
When renting a car in Romania as a traveler from France, you are required to have at least basic insurance. Additional coverage options are highly recommended to mitigate potential risks such as accidents, damages, or theft. Understanding the available insurance types ensures you comply with local laws and travel with peace of mind.
Covers damage to the rental car in the event of an accident or collision. This does not typically cover damages to windows, tires, or the undercarriage.
Protects you from financial liability in case the rental car is stolen during your rental period.
Covers damages or injuries you may cause to other people or their property while using the rental car.
Provides coverage for medical expenses related to injuries sustained by you or your passengers during the rental period.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Romania. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Optimize your car rental experience in Romania with these practical tips tailored for travelers from France.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Romania as a traveler from France.
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 France and Romania share several traffic regulations, notable differences exist in road signage, speed limits, and specific driving rules.
Stop Signs
Stop signs are commonly used and must be obeyed at all intersections.
Yield signs are more common than stop signs at intersections.
Speed Limits
130 km/h on highways, 90 km/h on rural roads, 50 km/h in urban areas.
120 km/h on highways, 100 km/h on rural roads, 50 km/h in urban areas.
Road Conditions
Roads are generally well-maintained with clear signage.
Some rural roads might be poorly maintained, with less signage.
Blood Alcohol Limit
0.02% BAC for new drivers, 0.05% BAC for experienced drivers.
0.00% BAC for new drivers, 0.05% BAC for experienced drivers.
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free devices are mandatory; holding a phone while driving is prohibited.
Hands-free devices are mandatory; holding a phone while driving is prohibited.
Seatbelt Usage
Mandatory for all passengers.
Mandatory for all passengers.
Traffic Lights
Obey standard traffic light rules; flashing green lights indicate imminent change.
Obey standard traffic light rules; flashing green lights indicate imminent change.
