Did you know how much Albania has to offer? In one trip, you can enjoy beautiful beaches, explore quiet mountain towns, and visit historic sites. If you’re flying into the capital, renting a car at Tirana Airport is the easiest way to freely explore the country. Public transport is limited, and taxis can get expensive. You can reach remote villages, coastal roads, and alpine towns that buses don’t go to with a rental car.
Our guide will help you understand how to rent a car in Albania. You’ll learn what documents you need, what the roads are like, how much insurance to expect, and tips to help you drive safely.
When you land in Albania, car hire at Tirana International Airport is the most convenient option. Tirana is in the middle of the country, which makes it a good starting point for any direction. Whether you plan to visit the beaches in the south, the mountains in the north, or UNESCO towns like Berat and Gjirokaster, driving from Tirana Airport helps you get on the road without delay. The roads around the airport are paved and in good condition. You can reach the city in 30 minutes and head toward the main highways.
To rent a car in Albania, there are some documents and rules you should know before you arrive at the rental desk. You must have a valid driver’s license from your home country. If your license is not written in Latin letters (such as English or French), you also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). This is a translated copy of your license and is easy to get before your trip.
You’ll also need your passport or another official ID. Most companies will ask for a credit card in the name of the main driver. This card is used to place a security hold during the rental period. The amount held depends on the type of car and insurance you choose. Renters must usually be at least 21 years old. Some companies require drivers to be 23 or older, especially for larger vehicles. If you’re under 25, there may be a small extra fee added per day. You should also have had your license for at least one year. Proper documents, valid ID, age eligibility, credit availability, and driving experience are all key to a smooth rental.
The best type of car depends on your route and travel group. If you plan to stay in cities or towns along the coast, a small economy car is fine. These are cheaper and easier to park. If you're traveling with a family or carrying large luggage, a compact SUV or midsize vehicle might be more comfortable. Planning to visit the Albanian Alps or remote villages? Then consider a car with higher ground clearance. You won’t need a full 4×4 unless you're going off-road or into deep mountain areas.
Manual cars are more common in Albania, and they are usually cheaper to rent. If you prefer an automatic car, book it early as they are limited and cost more. Make sure the car fits your route, your passengers, and your driving comfort. Vehicle size, transmission type, road conditions, group size, and trip plan should guide your decision.
Since you will have already booked online and selected your pick-up location, the process at Tirana International Airport will be simple. Most rental companies will have staff waiting in the parking area or near the arrivals exit with your car ready. Others may direct you to their nearby desk or lot using signs or a short shuttle ride.
Before you drive away, the agent will walk around the car with you. You should take photos or videos of the car’s condition, especially any visible scratches or dents. You will also need to check that the fuel level is recorded properly. Most rentals will follow a “full to full” fuel policy, which means you will receive the car with a full tank and return it the same way.
In Albania, a first aid kit is required by law, so you should ask the agent to confirm that one is included. You will likely return the car to the same location unless you prearranged a different drop-off. One-way rentals in Albania are rare and may cost more. To avoid problems later, be sure to confirm your return location before starting your trip.
Driving in Albania can be exciting, especially heading toward the coast or countryside. Major roads from the airport to cities like Durres or Vlore are wide and smooth. But as you move into rural or mountain areas, the roads may become narrow or uneven.
Speed limits are clearly marked: 40 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on rural roads, and up to 110 km/h on highways. Always follow posted signs, even if local drivers go faster. Traffic police are common, and on-the-spot fines may be given for speeding. The roads near the airport are well-signed, and navigation apps work well. Download offline maps in case you lose signal.
There are some rules to remember. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day. Using your phone while driving is illegal unless you use hands-free. The legal alcohol limit is nearly zero, so avoid drinking before driving. Be ready for unexpected animals on the road or parked cars in strange places. Speed limits, signage, lighting rules, alcohol laws, and unexpected hazards are important to follow.
By law, all rentals in Albania must include third-party liability insurance, which covers damage to other vehicles. This is included in the base rental price. However, you are responsible for damage to your own rental car unless you add extra coverage.
You can choose to buy full insurance when you book online or at the rental desk. This usually includes collision damage, theft protection, and coverage for glass and tires. It costs around $10 to $20 per day depending on the car. Some credit cards also offer insurance, but you must check the terms and what is included.
The rental company will also place a security deposit on your credit card. This is not charged, only held. The amount can range from €100 to €500, depending on your insurance level. It will be released after you return the car in good condition. Basic coverage, full protection, credit holds, damage liability, and card-based refunds are key things to know.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you are between 21 and 24, you might be asked to pay a young driver fee. Some car groups are only available to drivers aged 25 and above. You must show a valid driving license, and it must be written in Latin letters. If not, you must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Digital copies are not accepted. You must bring the physical license. You should also carry your passport and rental agreement with you in the car at all times. There are random police checkpoints, especially near the airport. Minimum age, IDP requirement, license format, physical documents, and checkpoints should be expected.
Before driving off, walk around the car with the agent. Point out any damage not listed in the report and ask for it to be added. Always take photos before and after your trip. Keep your fuel receipts and return the car with the correct level of gas. Don’t rush your first drive, especially if arriving after a long flight. Spend the night in Tirana if you’re tired, then start fresh the next day. If you’re not familiar with local signs, use a navigation app and drive slowly.
If you break down, most rental agreements include roadside support. Call the number provided in the car documents. In case of an accident, you must call the police and make a report to file a claim. Damage checks, fuel level, driver rest, navigation use, and emergency help will make things easier.
Many factors can change how much you’ll pay for a car rental. Understanding these can help you plan a better budget.
Crossing borders is allowed only with permission from the rental company. You must tell them in advance if you plan to visit nearby countries like Greece, Montenegro, or North Macedonia. There may be a cross-border fee, and you’ll need a special insurance document called a green card. Without this document, you may not be allowed to cross the border. Also, one-way rentals to another country are rare and very expensive. If your trip includes other countries, ask about all extra costs before booking. Border permission, extra fees, insurance papers, return policies, and country access are important to confirm.
Booking a car at Tirana Airport is one of the best ways to explore Albania with ease and comfort. The roads are getting better, and most rental processes are easy if you bring the right documents. Just remember to drive safely, respect the local rules, and prepare for different conditions. Rent a car with Final Rentals to open the door to parts of Albania that buses can’t reach. It’s the best way to discover the country’s natural beauty, history, and culture at your own pace.
