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.
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