Author: Sean C.

Quick answer: Yes, you can usually rely on credit card or third-party insurance when renting a car in Malta, but it’s not always straightforward. Coverage often comes with conditions, exclusions, and the need to handle paperwork if something goes wrong. For some visitors, taking the rental desk’s full cover is the smoother choice.

What Malta Car Hire Insurance Really Includes

Every rental car in Malta is legally insured, but the default cover can be misleading. Most companies include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which limits your liability if the car is damaged. The catch? You’re still responsible for an excess — often several hundred to a few thousand euros depending on the car and the company.

If you skip the rental desk’s full protection, the company will place a sizable hold on your credit card as security. That hold is released a few days after you return the car, but some banks take longer to show the funds back in your account.

Adding the rental’s full cover reduces or removes the excess, and the card hold is smaller. For many visitors, that peace of mind is worth it. Just remember, insurance only covers the renter and any additional drivers named in the contract. If someone else takes the wheel, the cover becomes invalid.

Using Your Credit Card Insurance in Malta

If you have a premium travel card, you can often skip the rental desk’s CDW and rely on your card’s protection instead. Cards like the Amex Platinum cover collision and theft if you pay with the card and decline CDW. The trick is knowing the fine print.

Before booking, double-check that your benefit applies in Malta, what car types are included, and whether the cover is primary or secondary. Save the benefit guide and claims number on your phone — and note any deadlines for reporting damage.

At the counter, always pay with the same card that carries the benefit. If your card requires you to decline CDW to trigger coverage, make sure you do so. Add all drivers to the contract, since card insurance generally only applies to named drivers. And don’t skip the photos — take shots of every panel, the wheels, the roof, the interior, and even the fuel gauge.

What’s Not Covered

Card insurance is rarely all-inclusive. You’ll usually find these exclusions:

• Windscreens and tires
• Undercarriage and interiors
• Lost keys, towing after misuse, and admin fees
• Traffic fines and Valletta CVA access charges

Third-Party Excess Policies

Another option is to buy an excess reimbursement policy. These don’t stop the rental company from charging you if the car is damaged — instead, you pay up front and then claim reimbursement.

They don’t remove the deposit hold on your card either, so you still need available credit. And the inspection process at return doesn’t change, so documenting the car is just as important.

If you choose this route, make sure Malta and Gozo are included in the policy, and check whether glass, wheels, and towing are covered. Some local banks, such as HSBC Malta in the past, have bundled excess cover into certain accounts — but always confirm current eligibility and limits.

When Full Cover at the Desk Makes Sense

Full cover at the counter costs more, but for many travelers it’s worth the price. If you’re landing late at night, it speeds things up and avoids long debates at the counter. Nervous drivers or visitors arriving in peak summer also benefit, since crowded streets and tight parking make scratches more likely.

With full cover, you usually get a zero or very small excess, fewer arguments at return, and broader roadside help that includes glass, tires, and keys. Read the policy carefully, but generally it buys you simplicity and peace of mind.

Local Insurance Gotchas in Malta

A few quirks in Malta can affect your decision. Valletta has a Controlled Vehicular Access system with cameras and fees during core hours — and no insurance will cover those charges.

Parking is notoriously tight in Valletta, Mdina, and village centers, while evenings in St Julian’s and Sliema can be hectic. If squeezing into bays makes you nervous, it’s wise to have cover for glass and wheels.

The Gozo ferry is usually included in contracts, and breakdown help typically extends there too, but always confirm in writing.

Handling Claims Without Drama

The easiest way to avoid disputes is to document everything. Take timestamped photos or videos at pickup and return, make sure any scratches are marked on the form, and keep both the check-in and check-out reports.

If damage happens, stay calm and gather evidence: close-ups, wide shots, and a police incident number if required. Notify the rental company immediately and keep all invoices and emails.

For card or third-party claims, you’ll need your rental agreement, final invoice, damage report, proof that you declined CDW (if applicable), and proof of payment with your card. File promptly — many benefits have tight deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use my credit card insurance instead of buying the rental company’s coverage in Malta?

Yes, if your card includes collision and theft cover and you decline the rental’s CDW. Just be sure Malta is covered, pay with that card, and follow the issuer’s rules.

2. Is credit card insurance primary or secondary in Malta?

It depends on your card. Some premium cards offer primary coverage, but many only reimburse after your personal insurance pays (secondary). Always check your benefit guide before traveling.

3. What car damages are usually excluded from card coverage?

Most card policies exclude windscreens, tires, undercarriage, and interiors. They also won’t cover lost keys, towing after misuse, admin fees, or traffic fines.

4. Does card insurance cover driving in Gozo?

Generally yes — most rental contracts and card benefits extend to Gozo if you take the ferry. Still, confirm this in writing on your rental agreement.

5. Will credit card insurance cover additional drivers?

Only if each additional driver is named on the rental contract. If someone drives who isn’t listed, all coverage is void.

6. How do third-party excess policies work in Malta?

They reimburse you after the rental company charges you the excess. You pay the rental company first, then file a claim with the insurer. It doesn’t remove the deposit hold or change the return inspection.

7. When is it smarter to just buy full cover at the desk?

If you’re landing late at night, short on time, or not confident about handling claims and paperwork, the rental’s full cover is simpler. It usually reduces the deposit hold and avoids disputes at return.

8. Do I still need to take photos if I have full cover or card coverage?

Yes. Photos protect you from false damage claims and give you evidence if you need to file with your card or insurer. A quick walk-around with your phone saves headaches later.

We’re locals and happy to help you find the right car. Book with us today and start exploring Malta the easy way.

Yes, in some cases. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Malta if your home country’s license isn’t in English, or if you’re from a non-EU country and staying longer than 12 months. Those are the official requirements.

Even if you’re just visiting, an IDP is strongly recommended if your license isn’t in English or Maltese. It acts as an official translation, which makes things smoother with both the rental company and local police.

Important to know:

• The IDP never replaces your home license. You must carry both.
• You can only get an IDP in your home country, so apply before you travel.
• Rental desks in Malta often ask for it — having it avoids arguments at the counter.

So while not every single visitor legally needs one, most non-EU drivers are better off getting it. It’s cheap, valid for a year, and saves a lot of stress.

So what does an IDP actually do?

It’s not magic. It doesn’t give you extra driving powers. It’s basically a translation of your license into a bunch of languages under international conventions Malta follows. Think of it like subtitles for your license , it helps the desk staff (and police, if it ever comes to that) know exactly what you’re allowed to drive.

Important part: it never works alone. You always need your actual license with it. Most IDPs are valid for a year, so make sure it covers your whole trip.

How to get one before your trip

Back home, you’ll apply through your motoring association. In some countries, you can walk into a branch and leave with one the same day. In others, you’ll need to fill out a form, attach a passport photo, pay a fee, and wait for the postman.

Don’t overthink it, just give yourself a few weeks’ buffer so it arrives in time. And double-check that the name matches your passport exactly. Tiny mismatches can cause big issues at the counter.

Edge cases you should know about

Malta has quirks. After Brexit, some desks will take a UK photocard without blinking, while others insist on the IDP. That’s why it pays to email your rental company beforehand and keep their reply in your inbox.

If you’re here for longer than a holiday, Transport Malta may expect you to register or even convert your license. And no, screenshots or “digital licenses” on your phone won’t cut it. They want to see plastic.

What rental companies actually check for

When you show up at the desk, expect them to ask for:

• Your passport.
• Your physical license (plus the IDP if you need it).
• A credit card in the main driver’s name (for the security block).
• Your booking voucher.

Want peace of mind at the counter? 👉 Here’s the checklist every Malta car renter should tick off.

Age rules and driver history

Malta isn’t one-size-fits-all when it comes to age. Some companies rent from 21, others from 23. If you’re under 25, be ready for a “young driver surcharge” — basically, extra insurance because they think you’ll scratch the car.

On the other end, a few companies have an upper limit around 70–75. In that case, you might be asked for extra paperwork or a doctor’s note.

Extra drivers? They need to meet the same rules and show up with their licenses too. You can’t just add your cousin’s name last-minute because he wants to take a spin to Gozo.

Insurance basics in Malta

Here’s how it usually works: your rental comes with the bare minimum (third-party liability) and a Collision Damage Waiver. That Waiver sounds reassuring, but there’s always a catch — the excess. That’s the amount they’ll block on your card, often several hundred euros.

Now, you can reduce or even buy down that excess at the counter. It’s pricey, but some people sleep better knowing a dinged rim won’t cost them their whole deposit. Just know the standard insurance rarely covers windscreen cracks, flat tires, lost keys, or damage underneath the car.

Pro tip: walk around the car with your phone out and film it before you drive away. You’ll thank yourself later.

Child seats and equipment

Yes, child seats are mandatory in Malta. No exceptions. You can reserve one in advance with the rental company, but always check it when you pick up the car. Size, belts, cleanliness — don’t assume it’ll be perfect. If you’re picky (or just want peace of mind), bring your own.

As for the cars themselves, they’ll have the basics like a reflective vest and warning triangle. Winter kits aren’t a thing here — the coldest you’ll get is a breezy night in January.

If you skip the IDP, what are your options?

Some people think they can wing it with buses, Ferries or taxis, and yes, those exist. But let’s be real. Malta’s bus system covers most towns during the day, but it thins out late at night. If your flight lands after midnight, don’t expect a bus to be waiting — grab a taxi or pre-book a transfer.

Ride-hailing apps and white taxis are fine for nights out in St Julian’s or Paceville, but surge pricing bites hard on weekends.

Hiring a private driver can work for things like wine tours or when you just want a stress-free ride with kids and luggage. But for day-to-day exploring? It adds up fast.

That’s why most visitors still end up renting. The freedom to hop between beaches, villages, and Gozo without checking bus timetables is worth it.

Driving in Malta: the things visitors miss

We drive on the left here — just like the UK and Ireland. That catches some visitors off guard at first, but you’ll get used to it quickly.

The streets in many villages are on the narrow side, with beautiful old stone walls right at the edge. It just means you’ll want to take it easy and give yourself time. Think of it as part of Malta’s charm — the slower pace lets you actually see the islands instead of rushing through them.

Valletta has a Controlled Vehicular Access (CVA) system — basically, a fee if you enter during weekday working hours. Honestly, it’s easier to park outside the city walls and walk in or grab the Park and Ride. Mdina is even stricter; it’s mostly pedestrian.

Heading to Gozo? The ferry is straightforward. Most rental companies let you take the car across, but you’ll need to bring the same vehicle back. Don’t forget the rental contract in the glovebox — you may be asked for it.

One last thing: Malta enforces low blood alcohol limits. If you’re planning to enjoy local wine or craft beer, just leave the car parked that day. Enforcement is strict, especially on weekends.

When a rental car really makes sense

If you’re staying only in Valletta or Sliema, you might get away without a car. But for everyone else — families, beach-hoppers, photographers chasing sunsets — a rental car just makes life easier.

Yes, parking can be tight in the busy areas, and yes, traffic builds around St Julian’s at rush hour. But the ability to link Dingli Cliffs, Blue Grotto, quiet coves, and Gozo villages in one day is priceless.

Think of it this way: buses and taxis are your backups. The rental car is your base camp.

So if you’re planning to explore beyond the main tourist spots, it’s worth having your own wheels. Book a cheap Malta car rental today and give yourself the freedom to see the islands your way.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do tourists need an International Driving Permit in Malta?

Tourists from the EU/EEA can drive with their home license only. Visitors from outside the EU should carry an IDP, especially if their license is not in English or Maltese, as rental companies and police often request it.

2. Is an International Driving Permit mandatory for US drivers in Malta?

Not always, but it’s strongly recommended. A US license is in English, so short stays are usually fine without an IDP. However, many rental companies still prefer to see one, and it avoids any issues with local authorities.

3. How long can I drive in Malta without an IDP?

If you’re from outside the EU, you can use your home license for up to 12 months. After that, you’ll need an IDP or to convert your license. For short-term visitors, an IDP is smart insurance against misunderstandings.

4. Can I rent a car in Malta without an IDP?

It depends on the rental company. Some will hand you the keys with just your home license if it’s in English, but many will insist on seeing an IDP as well. Always confirm in writing before booking to avoid surprises at the counter.

5. Where do I get an International Driving Permit before coming to Malta?

You must apply in your home country through the official motoring authority. Most can issue it the same day if you apply in person, but postal or online applications can take a couple of weeks, so plan ahead.

If this is your first time renting a car in Malta, welcome — and buckle up. Driving here is both a little chaotic and a lot of fun. You’ll get to explore quiet chapels, remote coves, and hilltop villages that buses just don’t reach.

Below is a practical checklist from a local’s perspective, with the essentials you’ll want to know before picking up your rental keys.

Quick Fit Guide: Do You Even Need a Car?

Rent a car if:

• You’ve got kids, strollers, beach umbrellas, and more gear than two arms can carry.
• You’re planning to squeeze Mdina, Blue Grotto, and Golden Bay into a single day.
• You want golden-hour photos at Dingli Cliffs or a midnight swim at Għajn Tuffieħa.

Skip the car if:

• You’re sticking to Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s where buses and ferries are plenty.
• You’re nervous about left-side driving and hair-thin village lanes.
• It’s a wine-tasting day or long Sunday lunch — better to let someone else do the driving.

👉 Truth is, in most cases a car makes life easier. But for short city stays, you can manage fine without.

Documents You’ll Need at the Counter

• Driver’s license: Full, physical license. EU is fine. Non-EU visitors: bring your original plus an International Driving Permit if your license isn’t in Roman letters.
• Age & experience: Most companies rent to 21–75 with 1–2 years’ driving experience. Under-25s and over-65s often pay extra or can’t rent higher-class cars.
• Passport & booking voucher (print or digital).
• Credit card in the lead driver’s name: Needed for the deposit. Debit cards are tricky — many companies refuse them.
• Extra drivers: They need to be there with their licenses.

Insurance & Deposit — Don’t Skip This

• CDW & Theft Cover: Lowers your liability but still leaves an “excess” (usually €1,200–1,500, more for SUVs).
• Exclusions: Tires, glass, roof, and underbody often not included unless you buy extra cover.
• Deposit: expect a pre-auth for the excess + fuel. Use a credit card with enough limit.
• Options:
  • Stick with the standard excess.
  • Pay for the rental company’s full protection.
  • Use third-party excess insurance (cheaper, but you’ll need to claim later).

Top tip: Photograph the car inside and out before driving away — timestamped. Saves you headaches later.

What Your Rental Will Really Cost

Beyond the daily rate:

• VAT
• Young/senior driver surcharge
• Extra driver fees
• Child seats or GPS units
• Airport or out-of-hours pickup fees
• Ferry surcharge if taking the car to Gozo (always double-check policy)

Fuel in Malta rentals usually runs on a full-to-full policy. That means you collect the car with a full tank and you’re expected to bring it back the same way. It’s a simple system, but don’t skip the refill before drop-off — otherwise the rental company will happily top it up for you at premium rates.

Another thing visitors often miss is Valletta’s CVA zone (Controlled Vehicle Access). If you drive into the city during restricted hours, you’ll automatically get charged. On top of that, your rental company will add an administration fee for processing the fine. The easy fix is to park outside the walls — Floriana or the Park & Ride are convenient and much cheaper than paying CVA charges.

Pickup & Return at Malta International Airport

• Pickup: Most desks are in Arrivals; some use a shuttle. Allow 15–40 minutes in summer evenings. Take photos of everything (yes, even the wheels and roof).
• Return: Refuel at the last station before the airport (there’s one at Luqa close by). Clear trash, snap photos again, and get written sign-off on fuel & condition. Build in 20 minutes buffer for queues.

Driving in Malta — Staying Calm & Legal

• Left-side driving — the first turn out of the airport always feels weird, then you get used to it.
• Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h open roads. Speed cameras are unforgiving.
• Seatbelts: required for all.
• Kids: proper child restraints by age/size.
• Phones: no handhelds.
• Traffic: avoid Msida, St. Julian’s, and Sliema rush hours if you value your sanity.

Driving in Malta comes with its quirks. Some village lanes get so narrow you’ll wonder if they’re even meant for cars. The best approach is to keep calm, hold a steady line, and let others pass when the space allows. Locals are used to it, so there’s no need to panic — just take your time.

As for alcohol, the rules are strict and police do carry out roadside checks, especially on weekends. It’s safest to stay well under the limit. If you’ve planned a long, wine-fuelled lunch or a late night out, leave the car behind and enjoy without worry.

Parking in Historic Towns

• Valletta: Don’t drive inside during CVA hours. Park in Floriana or use Park & Ride. Cheaper, less stress.
• Mdina & Rabat: Residents-only inside Mdina. Park outside and enjoy the 5-minute walk in.
• Beaches: Golden Bay, Mellieħa, etc. fill by 9 a.m. on weekends. Either go early or late. Never block farm tracks or private drives — locals hate it.

Gozo and Comino by Car

Most people want to hop over to Gozo at least once, and taking your rental is usually allowed — but always check your agreement first. The ferry leaves from Ċirkewwa, no booking needed, you just roll up in line with everyone else. You actually pay on the way back, which always surprises first-timers.

Summer mornings can mean long queues, so either head out early or wait until later in the afternoon when things thin out. Once in Gozo, expect narrower roads and plenty of farm vehicles. It’s not a race — just take it slow, enjoy the views, and remember patience is part of the island rhythm.

Comino, by the way, is boat-only — you’ll leave your rental behind and hop a ferry.

When a Taxi or Driver Makes More Sense

Sometimes it’s smarter to skip the car. If you’re planning a long winery lunch, a night out in Paceville, or moving a large group from one side of the island to the other, a driver saves a lot of hassle.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps work fine, but surge pricing after concerts or late flights is real. And don’t expect car seats unless you book ahead. For hopping between main towns, Malta’s bus network is cheap and reliable, though slow for beach days.

Late-Night Arrivals

Flights landing after 10 p.m. can be tricky. Some rental desks close, some charge an “out of hours” fee, and a few run shuttles with lockboxes for keys. Always get the after-hours plan in writing.

If you’re arriving at midnight with kids and luggage, it might be kinder to yourselves to grab a hotel near the airport and pick the car up the next morning. Taxis run late, but queues can stretch if three flights land at once.

Wrapping It Up

Renting a car in Malta isn’t complicated once you know what to expect. The roads may be narrow, the parking a bit creative, but the freedom to explore hidden bays, sleepy villages, and late-night sunsets on your own schedule makes it worth it.

At Car Rentals Malta, we’re locals who know the quirks of driving here — from which car parks fill first to which ferry lanes move fastest. Our job is to make the rental process smooth so you can focus on your holiday, not the paperwork.

👉 Ready to see what’s available? Check our cars here and start planning your trip with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What age do I need to be to rent a car in Malta?

Most rental companies set the minimum at 21 with at least one year of driving experience. Drivers under 25 or over 70 may face extra fees or restrictions.

2. Do I need an International Driving Permit in Malta?

If your license is in Roman letters (English, German, French, etc.), your standard license is fine. If not, carry an IDP alongside your original license.

3. How much deposit should I expect to leave?

Usually between €1,200–€1,500, depending on the car type. Higher for SUVs and automatics. This is held on your credit card.

4. Can I take my rental car to Gozo or Comino?

Yes, cars are usually allowed on the Gozo ferry. Comino is boat-only, so you’ll leave your rental behind. Always confirm with your rental company first.

5. What happens if my flight is delayed or I arrive late at night?

Check your booking for “out of hours” rules. Some companies use key lockboxes or charge a late fee. Worst case, take a taxi to your hotel and collect the car the next morning.

6. What kind of car should I book for Malta’s roads?

Compact cars are easiest for tight village lanes and parking. Families or groups often go for small SUVs for luggage and beach gear. Avoid oversized vehicles — parking is limited.

7. Where can I park in Valletta or Mdina without stress?

For Valletta, use Floriana car parks or Park & Ride instead of driving into the CVA zone. For Mdina, park outside the gates or in Rabat and walk in.

8. Are child seats available with rentals?

Yes, but always reserve in advance. Confirm ISOFIX availability if you need it.

9. Is fuel included in the rental price?

No — most rentals in Malta operate on a full-to-full policy. Pick up full, return full. Refill at Luqa before dropping off at the airport to avoid charges.

10. Is it hard to drive in Malta as a tourist?

It takes a day to adjust to left-side driving and narrow roads, but most visitors manage fine. Just avoid peak rush hours around Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Msida.