Malta is a small island country located in the Mediterranean Sea, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and picturesque architecture. Renting a car can be a great way to explore the country’s many attractions, from ancient temples to seaside villages. In this article, we will discuss the local rules and requirements for renting a car in Malta, as well as list some of the major car rental companies in the country.
Local Rules and Requirements
Driver’s License
To rent a car in Malta, you must have a valid driver’s license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP must be accompanied by a valid driver’s license from your home country. It is important to note that Malta drives on the left side of the road, which may be different from your home country.
Age Requirements
Most car rental companies in Malta require drivers to be at least 21 years old and have held a driver’s license for at least one year. However, some companies may have higher age requirements, particularly for renting certain types of vehicles.
Insurance
In Malta, third-party liability insurance is mandatory and is typically included in the rental price. However, it is recommended to purchase additional insurance coverage, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection (TP), to avoid high out-of-pocket costs in case of an accident or theft.
Traffic Rules and Regulations
When driving in Malta, it is important to obey all traffic rules and regulations. The speed limit is generally 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on highways. It is also mandatory to wear seat belts and use a mobile phone only with a hands-free system.
Major Car Rental Companies in Malta
Europcar
Europcar is a global car rental company with locations in over 140 countries, including Malta. They have rental locations in major cities such as Valletta, Sliema, and Bugibba, as well as at the Malta International Airport. Europcar offers a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury vehicles, and you can book your rental online through their website.
Website: https://www.europcar.com.mt/
Avis
Avis is another global car rental company with locations in over 165 countries, including Malta. They have rental locations in major cities such as Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, as well as at the Malta International Airport. Avis offers a variety of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury vehicles, and you can book your rental online through their website.
Website: https://www.avis.com.mt/
Budget
Budget is a global car rental company with locations in over 120 countries, including Malta. They have rental locations in major cities such as Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, as well as at the Malta International Airport. Budget offers a variety of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury vehicles, and you can book your rental online through their website.
Website: https://www.budget.com.mt/
Hertz
Hertz is a global car rental company with locations in over 150 countries, including Malta. They have rental locations in major cities such as Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, as well as at the Malta International Airport. Hertz offers a variety of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury vehicles, and you can book your rental online through their website.
Website: [https://www.hertz.com.mt/](https://www.hertz.com.m
Sixt
Sixt is a global car rental company with locations in over 100 countries, including Malta. They have rental locations in major cities such as Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, as well as at the Malta International Airport. Sixt offers a variety of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury vehicles, and you can book your rental online through their website.
Website: https://www.sixt.com.mt/
Goldcar
Goldcar is a car rental company with locations in several European countries, including Malta. They have rental locations at the Malta International Airport, as well as in the cities of Sliema and St. Julian’s. Goldcar offers a variety of vehicles, from economy cars to SUVs, and you can book your rental online through their website.
Website: https://www.goldcar.es/en/
First Car Rental
First Car Rental is a local car rental company with locations in Malta and Gozo. They have rental locations in major cities such as Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, as well as at the Malta International Airport. First Car Rental offers a variety of vehicles, from economy cars to SUVs, and you can book your rental online through their website.
Website: https://www.firstcarrental.com.mt/
Renting a car in Malta can be a great way to explore the island at your own pace. When renting a car, it is important to be aware of the local rules and requirements, such as driver’s license and age requirements, insurance coverage, and traffic rules and regulations. Additionally, it is recommended to rent from a reputable car rental company to ensure a safe and hassle-free rental experience.