Renting a Car in Malta 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Need info about renting a car in Malta? Well, you’re in the right place!

We explored Malta’s amazing cities, quiet villages, natural beauty, and gorgeous cliffsides on our 12-day road trip and loved it!

Despite its small size, efficient public transportation in Malta is lacking. So, renting a car is the best way to explore Malta with added flexibility.

We have rented cars in 12 countries throughout Europe and know exactly what to consider when renting a car.

In this post, we share everything you need to know about renting a car in Malta in 2025.

Let’s do this!

Rent a Car: Malta Requirements

When renting a car in Malta, here is exactly what you will need.

Valid Driver License & Passport

You must hold a valid driver’s license and passport from your home country. They cannot be expired, and it should be in English.

International Driving Permit

Drivers from non-EU countries must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Rental agencies can deny a car rental without an IDP.

If you are ever stopped by police or in an accident, both your IDP and your driver’s license will be required. Fortunately, obtaining an IDP is straightforward and needs to be completed from your home country.

Age & Experience

You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Malta. However, some rental companies set an age range of 25 to 65 years old. If you are outside this age group, you might face additional fees.

Many agencies require you to have at least 2 years of driving experience too. Make sure you verify the specific policies of the rental agency you book with.

Credit Card

A credit card in the driver’s name is required when renting a car in Malta. Debit cards are often not accepted.

Always book your rental car with the primary driver’s credit card.

Unfortunately, in France, we used my credit card but provided Gavin’s name and information. It was a huge headache that could have been avoided.

Rental Car Insurance

It is mandatory to have Third Party Liability Insurance when renting a car in Malta. We also recommend purchasing additional insurance in advance to save you money.

We get full coverage insurance on every rental car. You can’t control other drivers. So, it is best to protect yourself from every possibility.

Standard Coverage Insurance

Includes unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, Roadside Assistance, and Basic Third Party Liability insurance which covers damage to another person’s vehicle.

⛔Third Party Liability does not pay for damage to your rental car.

Yup… that’s why you need additional coverage! We always choose full coverage insurance when booking any rental.

Full Coverage Insurance

Includes towing expenses, refundable theft deductible, lost keys, and any damage to the undercarriage, body, wheels, and windshield.

It is always cheaper to add full coverage insurance to your online booking.

As of May 2025, the cost of full coverage through Discover Cars is $9/day.

Personal Accident Insurance

This is emergency medical coverage if you or your travel companions are injured in an accident. This option is available only at the counter upon pickup with Discover Cars.

Alternatively, if you prefer to book directly with a well-known company, like Avis, or a local agency like JS Car Hire, you can choose and pay for additional insurance in advance.

👉Avis: Collison Damage Waiver is $11.16/day, Theft Protection is $11.16/day and Personal Accident Insurance is $9.95/day.

👉JS Car Hire: Collison Damage Waiver & Theft Protection is $16.73/day and Personal Accident Insurance is $3.90/day.

🚗Need a rental car? Check availability & prices:
➡️Reserve your rental car here!

Tips for Renting a Car in Malta

When you drive in Malta, there are narrow, winding roads, dense traffic in cities, and a local driving style you need to be aware of.

Maltese Driving Habits
👉Inconsistent use of indicators when turning
👉Some drivers will stop in the middle of the road
👉Being honked indicates your presence to other drivers

Here are a few Malta driving tips to help you happily navigate Malta’s roads.

Driving on the Left

Yes, the Maltese drive on the left. This was an adjustment for us, as we are used to driving on the right.

Even as a passenger, it was important for me to stay alert and verbally remind us to keep to the left!

Since we were renting a car in Malta for a week, we rented a manual car to reduce costs.

It was a little stressful, but we quickly adapted to having the manual stick on our left.

Roads & Driving in Malta

Malta’s primary roads are paved with dividing lines and are in good condition with proper signage. If you venture off the main roads, prepare for uneven gravel.

Traffic congestion is an issue in cities and towns during peak driving times. Try to avoid driving during commuting hours.

✅HELPFUL TIP: Keep an eye on street mirrors attached to building corners. They make it easier to see approaching vehicles when there is a hidden driveway or a sharp curve.

Driving in Valletta

Traffic in the capital city is hectic. The roads are tight, congested, and full of impatient drivers.

Try to avoid peak traffic hours in Valletta (and other cities) if you can.

It also has a lot of one-way streets. Traveling with a GPS can help tremendously!

Speed Limits

Due to the lack of major highways, speed limits are lower in Malta. Main highways are 80 km/h, while the city speed limit is 50 km/h.

Slow down if it is raining in Malta, as roads can be more slick.

Highways are monitored by cameras, and there are speed traps. Always mind your speed to avoid a fine.

Tickets & Fines

Here are fines for common traffic violations.

✔️It is illegal to drink and drive
✔️It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving
✔️It is mandatory to have headlights on when driving in tunnels
✔️It is illegal to not wear a seat belt in Malta. Fines are €58
✔️Speed fines range from €35 to €75
✔️It is illegal to drive in reserved (bus) lanes. Fines are €116
✔️It is mandatory for children 3 to 12 yrs old to be seated in a child restraint system according to their weight. You can book one in advance with your rental company.

If you get into an accident, report the incident first to the traffic police.

Then, contact your rental car company to complete all claim forms and documentation.

✅HELPFUL TIP: The nationwide emergency number in Malta is 112

Parking in Malta

Parking can be a challenge as space is scarce. If you find a good spot, don’t let it go.

Always make sure you are parked in a legal zone within city limits.

Parking Zones in Malta:
⚪White: public parking (check pay to park & time limit)
🔵Blue: resident parking only from 6 pm – 8 am
🟢Green: resident–only parking 24 hours
🟡Yellow: strictly no parking at anytime

Many of Malta’s best towns and beaches can get busy on the weekends. We recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and secure a parking spot.

✅HELPFUL TIP: Like Valletta, the walled city of Mdina is pedestrian-only, but there is ample parking close to the entrance. This is important if you travel with chronic pain or fatigue.

CVA & Parking in Valletta

Parking in Valletta requires a special permit.

To reduce traffic congestion, if you enter Valletta between 8am – 6pm must pay a CVA tax (Controlled Vehicular Access).

However, if you enter after 2pm, you won’t be charged.

Honestly, there is no need to have a car in Valletta. The pedestrian-only historic center is where most of the must-see attractions in Valletta are located.

This is also true for the 3 Cities. They are connected by harbor taxi and are very easy to explore on foot… another reason why Malta is worth visiting!

We stayed for 3 days in Valletta before picking up our rental. This saved us money and the headache of parking outside the city and walking into town.

Ferry to Gozo

Thankfully, you can easily take your rental car onto the Malta Gozo Ferry! Just let your rental agency know beforehand.

Most roads on Gozo are paved and in good condition. Plus, it’s a quieter island with significantly fewer people, so driving and parking is easier.

🚗Need a rental car? Check availability & prices:
➡️Reserve your rental car here!

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Size & Power of Your Vehicle

Choosing the right size vehicle for your Malta itinerary is essential. Consider your passengers, luggage size, and any specific comfort requirements like extra space.

In our experience, opting for added space and comfort makes a significant difference in managing my chronic pain and invisible disabilities.

However, with Malta’s size, lack of steep terrain, and great roads, we were happy with our smaller, less powerful car choice.

The distance between major cities and attractions is small, and the highways are not fast. Plus, parking was easier with our smaller car.

Pick Up from the Malta Airport

Once you get to Malta, the Malta International Airport will have the largest selection of rental companies to choose from. Schedule your pick-up approximately 45 minutes after your flight lands.

You can purchase additional insurance if needed but will pay a higher fee than had you booked online.

Pick Up from Valletta

There is no need for a car in Valletta, as the historic center is pedestrian–only. We recommend you schedule your pick-up after you’ve explored Valletta and eaten at some of the best restaurants.

When renting a car in Malta, it is popular to use a local company. For example, Discover Cars will use Malta’s First Car Hire.

We chose JS Car Hire, a local company with excellent reviews. They offered full coverage insurance, met us near our favorite hotel in Valletta, and let us drop off at the airport for no additional charge.

Walk Around

This step is crucial for a hassle-free rental car experience.

Before Signing Paperwork
👉Inspect the car with a representative
👉Highlight any damage to the car
👉Ensure damages are recorded on the checkout form
👉Verify the mileage & fuel level

Take Pictures

Always take time-stamped photos of the car’s interior and exterior. These images serve as evidence, proving pre-existing damage if any issues arise.

Drop Off

Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight. Returning your car may take up to 30 minutes. Follow the signs to the rental return area.

Do a final vehicle inspection with an agency representative to note any damage, and check fuel levels and mileage.

✅HELPFUL TIP: The representative will speak English, as it’s one of the official languages of Malta. No language barrier to worry about!

Make sure to grab all your personal belongings. Once everything is checked and signed off, you’re all set.

Returning our car with JS Car Hire was easy! Our representative provided excellent instructions on where to leave the car. We took pictures of us dropping the keys in the mail slot at the airport, as per their request.

Gas Stations

Malta has plenty of gas stations scattered throughout the island. It was never difficult to find a gas station when needed.

Petrol stations operate with attendants Monday – Saturday until 6pm.

You can access the fuel pumps yourself after hours and on Sundays.

They accept both cash and credit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you just in case.

The price of gas in Malta for May 2025 is €1.34 per liter ($1.52 USD).

GPS & Google Maps

If you go on a lot of road trips, it makes sense to purchase a GPS. We’ve had our TomTom for 5 years and it works great.

We upload all necessary maps before we leave home, and TomTom automatically updates all maps as part of their lifetime warranty.

You can add a GPS to your booking online or at the counter upon pickup. However, rental companies charge a large fee for GPS, around $5.50/day.

Alternatively, get an Airalo SIM card and download Google Maps onto your phone.

🚗Need a rental car? Check availability & prices:
➡️Reserve your rental car here!

Should You Rent a Car in Malta?

Renting a car in Malta allows you to explore the country at your own pace, giving you complete freedom over your journey.

Public transportation is limited, and taxis can be expensive.

Going for a drive is one of the best things to do in Malta. You can visit off-the-beaten paths and discover hidden gems that are not easily accessible.

Plus, you won’t have to arrange transportation on your Malta boat tour. You can drive yourself right to the pickup point!

✅HELPFUL TIP: Planning a trip with invisible disabilities can be challenging. Having a car helps manage my chronic pain and fatigue while on the road.

Renting a car means we can travel at a slower pace and with more comfort, and flexibility.

Cost of Hiring a Car in Malta

On our 8-day road trip in mid-July, we paid $58/day for our rental car, including full coverage insurance.

If you travel in low season, the cost will be much less.

On Discover Cars, the cost of renting a car in Malta for one week in April will be as low as $8/day, including Standard Coverage Insurance.

Another great way to save money when booking a trip!

🚗Find the Best Deals with Discover Cars
✔️compare prices
✔️easy booking process
✔️offers comprehensive insurance
✔️excellent 24/7 customer service
➡️Reserve your rental with Discover Cars here!

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FAQ: Car Rental Malta

Final Thoughts: Renting a Car in Malta

Malta is a fantastic destination to visit. And what better way to see this beautiful country than a road trip!

Renting a car in Malta allows you to explore at your own pace, discover the lesser-known parts of the island, and get off the tourist path.

Hopefully, all your questions were answered and you feel confident enough to embark on your own Maltese adventure!

Read More on Malta

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How to Take the Malta Gozo Ferry in 2025
How To Spend 7, 10, or 12 Days in Malta: A Complete Itinerary
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The 35 Best Restaurants in Malta for 2025
The 20 BEST (& Free) Things to Do in Valletta