Cyprus – Car Rental

What are the rules and requirements for renting a car in Cyprus?

Before you collect your hire vehicle in Cyprus, you will need to satisfy the rental company’s eligibility criteria and present the appropriate documentation. This typically means bringing a valid driving licence, a passport or national identity card, and a credit card to cover the deposit. Making sure the name on each document matches exactly will save time and prevent any hold-ups at the counter.

Age requirements: The minimum age accepted by car hire companies in Cyprus generally falls between 21 and 25, depending on the operator. Some companies accept drivers from the age of 21 but apply a young driver surcharge, while others set the threshold at 23 or 25. Drivers younger than 25 are often required to have held their licence for at least three years. Upper age limits tend to sit between 70 and 75 years; those above this threshold may require prior authorisation or face an additional charge. Because policies differ considerably between providers, always check the specific conditions of your chosen company before booking.

Licence requirements: A driving licence issued in any EU country is fully valid in Cyprus for visitors. UK licence holders are also permitted to drive as tourists for stays of up to 90 days without needing an International Driving Permit. Travellers from outside the EU and UK may rely on their national licence for a limited period — usually 30 days — or are expected to carry a valid IDP alongside it.

Payment and deposits: The overwhelming majority of rental companies in Cyprus require a credit card in the name of the primary driver. Deposits generally range from €300 to €1,000 and are blocked on the card for the rental period, so it is worth checking that your card has sufficient available credit before you travel.

Additional drivers: If you wish to add another driver to the agreement, they must attend the rental desk in person with their own licence and identification. Additional drivers are subject to the same age and licence conditions as the primary driver, and a modest daily fee may apply for each extra person added.

Child safety: Under Cypriot law, children under 12 years of age or below 135 cm in height must use an appropriate child seat. Be sure to request one at the time of booking if you need it.

For the most current and authoritative guidance on road regulations, refer to the Cyprus Road Transport Department (RTD), which operates under the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works.

Which major car rental companies operate in Cyprus, and where can I find them?

Cyprus is well covered by both global rental chains and long-standing local providers. Larnaca International Airport serves as the island’s primary international gateway and the busier of its two commercial airports. The desks of all the main rental companies at Larnaca are located within the Arrivals Hall, with the vehicles themselves available for collection in the adjacent car parks a short distance away.

International chains at both airports are well represented. Among the operators based at Larnaca International Airport are Astra, Auto Rentals Cyprus, Avis, Budget, Cyprus Car Hire, Europcar, Firefly, Hertz, Prime Cyprus, and Sixt. The majority of these companies also maintain a presence at Paphos International Airport (PFO).

• Hertz: Operates from both Larnaca and Paphos airports as well as various city locations. hertz.com
• Avis: Available at both airports and through branches in the main urban centres. avis.com
• Europcar: Offers a broad selection of vehicles ranging from small hatchbacks to large SUVs, with collection and return points at major airports and city locations, together with round-the-clock roadside assistance. europcar.com/en-cy
• Sixt: Renting with Sixt in Cyprus requires drivers to be at least 21 years old and hold a valid licence. Certain vehicle classes carry a higher minimum age requirement, and a surcharge may be applied to younger drivers. sixt.com
• Budget: Avis and Budget are among the most widely accessible operators in Cyprus, offering competitive mid-range pricing and a relatively good supply of automatic transmission vehicles compared with some smaller firms. budget.com

Local and regional operators frequently offer attractive rates alongside a more personal level of service. Andreas Petsas and Sons Public Ltd has been one of the most prominent names in Cypriot car hire since 1962. Its fleet of approximately 1,800 vehicles covers everything from economy models and saloons to luxury cars, convertibles, 4×4s, and minibuses. The company has offices in all major towns and popular resort areas throughout the Republic of Cyprus, with branches at both Larnaca and Paphos International Airports and round-the-clock availability.

Other operators worth exploring include Alamo, Thrifty, Enterprise, SurPrice, Keddy by Europcar, and Green Motion. Comparison platforms such as DiscoverCars.com allow you to assess international and local providers side by side — particularly useful for longer stays or bookings made during quieter seasons.

How does car rental pricing work in Cyprus, and what should I watch out for?

Car hire rates in Cyprus broadly follow the same structure as elsewhere in Europe, though there are a few local considerations that are worth understanding before you commit to a booking.

Seasonal variation: Prices peak during the summer months of June through August and around public holidays. Those seeking more affordable rates should consider travelling between November and February, when demand is lower. Because Cyprus experiences a pronounced summer surge, leaving a booking until the last minute can prove costly — checking availability and locking in a rate several months ahead is a sensible approach.

Airport vs. city pick-up: Collecting a vehicle at Larnaca International Airport (LCA) or Paphos International Airport (PFO) tends to be more expensive than picking it up from a city-centre location, though the added convenience is often worth considering. Larnaca Airport, as the busier of the two, generally offers the widest choice of vehicles, especially during the summer peak.

One-way rentals: Returning a vehicle to a different location from where it was collected typically attracts a significant surcharge. The most cost-effective arrangement is usually to return the car to the same pick-up point. That said, one-way rentals between Paphos and Larnaca airports are available from some companies — just confirm any associated fees when booking.

Fuel policy: A full-to-full fuel arrangement — where the car is supplied with a full tank and you return it the same way — is the most transparent and consumer-friendly option, and the one most widely recommended in Cyprus. Accepting any other arrangement, such as a pre-purchased fuel option, often works out more expensive. Most forecourts stock unleaded petrol and diesel; LPG is not available on the island. In more remote or mountainous areas, filling stations may be few and far between, so it pays to plan fuel stops before heading off the beaten track.

Transmission type: Manual gearbox vehicles predominate in Cyprus. If you need an automatic, request one when booking as early as possible, since they are less numerous and may carry a slight price premium.

Traffic fines: Both fixed and mobile speed cameras are in operation throughout Cyprus. Infringements are captured automatically and fines may arrive by post or be applied directly to your rental account. Payment can be made online through JCCsmart, at local bank branches, or at police stations. Rental companies are also entitled to recover any outstanding fines from the credit card on file.

If you need guidance on consumer rights or wish to raise a dispute relating to a rental agreement, the Cyprus Consumer Protection Service and the Cyprus Tourism Organisation both publish useful information for travellers.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Cyprus?

The answer depends on the country that issued your driving licence. The position as of 2025 is reasonably clear for the majority of travellers, though it is always prudent to check directly with your rental company before departure, since individual operators may impose stricter conditions than the legal baseline requires.

EU/EEA licence holders: Drivers holding a licence issued by an EU or EEA country do not need an IDP and may use their home licence in Cyprus for as long as it remains valid.

UK licence holders: UK licence holders are not legally obliged to carry an IDP, but doing so is strongly recommended for both rental purposes and roadside checks. If your licence was issued in the United Kingdom, you should bring both parts of the document — the photocard and the paper counterpart — with you.

Non-EU licence holders: Travellers from outside the EU and UK may drive on their national licence for a limited period, generally up to 30 days, or should supplement it with a valid IDP. Carrying an IDP is strongly advisable to avoid fines, the risk of being refused a rental vehicle, and potential complications with insurance cover.

Obtaining an IDP: An IDP must be applied for in the country where your domestic driving licence was issued — it cannot be obtained upon arrival in Cyprus and must be arranged before travel, through the relevant motoring authority or automobile association in your home country. In the United States, the AAA handles IDP applications; in Australia, this is managed through the national automobile clubs. A 1949 Convention IDP remains valid for a maximum of one year from the date of issue; the 1968 Convention model is valid for up to three years.

Always carry your IDP together with your original national licence, as an IDP is not a standalone driving document on its own. For the definitive current position, consult the Cyprus Road Transport Department or speak to your rental company ahead of your trip.

What types of roads and driving conditions should I be prepared for in Cyprus?

Driving side: Traffic in Cyprus travels on the left, as in the United Kingdom. Overtaking takes place on the right. Drivers who are accustomed to right-hand traffic should allow a short period of adjustment, particularly when approaching junctions and navigating roundabouts.

Road network: The main road infrastructure is generally in good shape, with motorways connecting the principal towns, adequate signage, and reasonable lighting on major routes. Once you leave the main arteries and venture into rural areas or smaller villages, road quality tends to decline — expect narrower carriageways, winding bends, and occasional unpaved stretches. Mountain roads can be poorly lit after dark, and extra care is warranted in those conditions.

Road signs and city names: Signage follows European conventions and is displayed in both Greek and English. Be aware that several cities are known by two names: Limassol is also called Lemesos, and Nicosia is referred to as Lefkosia. These are the same places, but the variation can cause brief confusion when navigating.

Speed limits (as of 2025): The applicable limits are 50 km/h within built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on motorways. Speed enforcement cameras are widely deployed, so it is important to observe posted limits at all times.

Key traffic rules:

• Seatbelts must be worn by all occupants of the vehicle. The use of a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited; a hands-free system must be used if you need to take a call.
• The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, and penalties for exceeding this are severe.
• At roundabouts, vehicles already circulating have priority. Always signal clearly when leaving a roundabout.
• Flashing headlights is sometimes used as a courtesy signal to give way. Horn use is generally discouraged, especially near hospitals and during night hours. On narrow rural roads, yield to oncoming traffic where space is limited.

Mountainous terrain: The Troodos Mountains in the island’s interior are traversed by roads that are reasonably well maintained but can become treacherous in wet or icy winter weather. An ordinary saloon car is adequate for the main paved routes, but if you plan to explore more remote terrain — particularly in the Akamas Peninsula — a 4×4 is the more appropriate choice. Be aware that standard rental insurance typically excludes tyre puncture and underbody damage, and is specifically invalidated when driving on off-road dirt tracks, including routes leading to Lara Beach, the Akamas Nature Reserve, Adonis Baths, and the Blue Lagoon.

Northern Cyprus: Taking a rental vehicle into Northern Cyprus is only permitted if your hire company explicitly authorises it. You will be required to purchase separate third-party insurance at the crossing point. Many of the major international chains prohibit cross-border travel outright, so confirm the position with your company in writing before signing the rental agreement.

What insurance do I need when renting a car in Cyprus?

Getting to grips with your insurance position before you take the keys is one of the most important steps in the rental process — and Cyprus follows broadly the same framework as the rest of Europe.

What is included as standard: Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL) is a legal requirement and is included in virtually all rental agreements in Cyprus. It covers loss, injury, or damage suffered by other parties as a result of an accident you cause. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is also widely included as a standard element of the rental price. CDW limits your financial exposure in the event of damage to the hire vehicle itself, though it normally comes with an excess or deductible that you remain responsible for.

Excess amounts: Even with CDW in place, you may still be liable for an excess charge if the vehicle is damaged or involved in an accident. Depending on the company and the vehicle category, this amount can range anywhere from €100 to €2,000. Clarifying this figure before you sign the agreement is essential, as it represents the maximum you could be required to pay out of pocket following a claim.

What standard CDW typically does not cover: Most standard CDW policies exclude damage to tyres, glass, and windscreens unless separate cover is purchased, underbody damage including to the exhaust system and suspension, and theft or vandalism unless Theft Protection is added to the agreement.

Optional upgrades: Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) is a popular enhancement that reduces or eliminates the excess payable under standard CDW. Should an accident or damage occur, you will pay significantly less — or nothing at all — towards repair costs. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) is an optional add-on that provides medical benefits for you and your passengers in the event of an accident, covering medical expenses arising from injuries sustained while travelling in the rental vehicle.

Third-party excess insurance: Independent excess insurance policies are available from third-party providers, sometimes at a lower daily rate than upgrading through the rental company. The typical arrangement requires you to pay the rental company directly for any damage and then reclaim that cost from your insurer. Compare the costs of both options carefully before you travel.

Credit card insurance: Certain premium credit cards include rental car excess cover as part of their travel benefits package, though the scope of this cover varies considerably between card issuers and can depend on the country of rental. Do not assume that your card provides this cover automatically — verify directly with your card provider that Cyprus is included, that the rental company’s excess type qualifies, and what the maximum claimable amount is.

Inspecting the vehicle: Before driving away, carry out a thorough inspection of the car and make a record of any pre-existing damage. Photographs taken on your phone provide a useful reference and can protect you from being held liable for damage that was already there when you collected the vehicle.

Are there any specific rules for expats or long-term residents renting cars in Cyprus?

Your obligations under Cypriot road law depend to a significant degree on how long you have been — or plan to remain — resident on the island. The rules that apply to short-term tourists differ from those applicable to people who have settled here on a longer-term basis.

Short-term visitors: Tourists are permitted to drive for up to six months using their foreign licence, accompanied by an IDP where required by their nationality. During this initial period, the same rental conditions apply as for any other visiting driver — you must still satisfy the hire company’s age and licence requirements.

Becoming a resident — the six-month rule: Once you establish residency in Cyprus, you are required to exchange your foreign licence for a Cypriot one within six months. This is particularly relevant for expats making a long-term move: continuing to drive on a non-Cypriot licence beyond this point — except where an EU licence is involved — may place you in breach of local law and could jeopardise your insurance coverage.

EU licence holders as residents: Holders of a driving licence issued by another EU member state are permitted to drive in Cyprus on that licence for as long as it remains valid and while they are under 70 years of age. In most cases, EU residents are not required to exchange their licence, though it is advisable to confirm the current position with the Road Transport Department, as regulations can be revised.

Exchanging a non-EU licence: To exchange a foreign licence for a Cypriot one, you will need to supply proof of residence, your existing licence, and complete form TOM 7. As of 2025, the exchange fee is reported to be €40, but this figure should be verified directly with the Cyprus Road Transport Department, as charges are subject to change.

Drivers over 70: Anyone over the age of 70 must undergo both a medical examination and an eye test when exchanging their licence. If you are approaching this threshold and intend to drive regularly in Cyprus, it is worth making these arrangements in good time.

Renting as a long-term resident: There is no blanket restriction preventing residents from hiring cars, but rental companies may request evidence of a local address and a valid local or exchanged licence if they are aware of your resident status. If you are still in the process of completing a licence exchange, carry your foreign licence and any supporting residency documents, and contact the rental company in advance to establish what they will require from you.

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a car in Cyprus if I am under 25?

The minimum rental age at most companies in Cyprus is 21, though certain operators — particularly for premium or larger vehicle categories — may insist on a higher threshold of 25. Young drivers under 25 are frequently subject to additional daily surcharges. Age requirements differ between providers, so it is important to review the terms of your specific company before completing a reservation.

Is there a maximum age limit for renting a car in Cyprus?

Upper age thresholds typically fall between 70 and 75 years. Drivers above this range may require special approval from the rental company or may be asked to pay a supplementary fee. Some operators impose no hard maximum but may request a medical certificate instead. Check with your chosen company directly before booking to understand their exact policy.

Can I drive a rental car into Northern Cyprus?

Cross-border travel into Northern Cyprus in a rental vehicle is only possible if your hire company has explicitly authorised it. You will also be required to take out separate third-party insurance upon crossing the border. A number of major international operators, including Sixt, do not permit their vehicles to be taken into Northern Cyprus, and any existing cover will be rendered invalid if you cross without permission. Always obtain written confirmation of your company’s policy before travelling.

What happens if I am involved in an accident in Cyprus?

Keep calm, check that all parties are safe, and dial the Cyprus police emergency number (199) if the situation requires it. Notify your hire company as promptly as possible and request a written incident report from the police at the scene. Take photographs of all damage and exchange contact and insurance details with any other parties involved. Unless there are injuries or serious damage, move vehicles only once the police have authorised it.

What if I return the car with a lower fuel level than when I collected it?

Under a full-to-full fuel agreement, you are expected to return the vehicle with the same amount of fuel it had when you collected it — a full tank. If the tank is not full on return, the rental company will top it up and bill you for the fuel at their own rate, which is invariably higher than what you would pay at a petrol station. Filling the tank yourself before handing the car back is always the more economical choice.

Do I need to carry any documents with me while driving in Cyprus?

You should always have your passport or national ID card on your person when driving, as police or hire company staff may request identification. The vehicle’s registration certificate, proof of insurance, and circulation licence should also be present — these documents are typically stored in the glovebox of rental vehicles, but confirm they are there before you set off.

Are there toll roads in Cyprus?

Cyprus does not currently operate a toll system on its public motorway network, so you will not encounter any toll booths when driving between the main towns. Some private car parks and access points in larger cities do charge for use, however. For any updates on road or infrastructure charges, consult the Cyprus Ministry of Transport or check with your rental company at the time of booking.

Is it safe to drive in the Troodos Mountains?

The main roads through the Troodos Mountains are generally well maintained, but they tend to be narrow and can be poorly lit at night, requiring careful driving. During winter, snow and ice are possible at higher elevations. An ordinary saloon car handles the paved mountain roads well under normal conditions, but for very remote or unpaved tracks a vehicle with greater ground clearance is a better option. Check weather forecasts before heading into the mountains, and keep in mind that standard rental insurance typically does not cover damage sustained on unpaved routes.

Will my travel insurance or credit card cover car rental excess in Cyprus?

Some travel insurance policies and certain premium credit cards do include rental car excess protection, but the scope and conditions of that cover vary considerably from one provider to the next. Eligibility may depend on the class of vehicle, the rental company involved, or the size of the excess. Read the policy terms carefully, contact your insurer or card issuer before you travel, and never take it for granted that cover is in place — hire companies will hold you liable for the full excess unless you have documented proof of an alternative arrangement.