Can you drive a rental car between countries in Europe?

Holidaymakers looking to make the most of their time away from home will likely look to rent a vehicle – but can you travel across borders in your rental?

Depending on what country you are in, hiring a vehicle can mean you and your family can explore and more easily visit the local hotspots.

With so many benefits provided by the temporary transportation, this guide looks at what you’ll need to hire a vehicle – and if you can drive across Europe in the same car.

Documents you need to drive in Europe

For Brits to legally drive any vehicle in Europe, there are a few documents you will need in order to get behind the wheel.

Aside from your valid, full driving licence and your in-date driving licence, there are a few other important documents you will need to legally use a vehicle on the continent.

You’ll need your European Breakdown Cover documents – as well as any travel insurance information you have purchased ahead of your trip.

In the cases where you need a visa to travel to the country, keep that to hand at all times.

Across Europe, some places will need toll road vignettes and emission zone stickers. Check the nation’s official transport rules before setting off on your holiday.

• Driving in Europe checklist
• Your complete guide to ETIAS
• Driving abroad in 2024? Be prepared, take out European Breakdown Cover

Can I drive my rental car from the UK to Europe?

Despite the impact of Brexit, it is still possible to drive a rental vehicle from the UK into continental Europe.

Before signing the agreement, you will need to check the policy to see if you are allowed to travel across borders, or if you will need to have an added extra to use the vehicle in Europe.

Drivers will also need to check that they have insurance coverage and breakdown cover.

Also, ensure that you have all the necessary documentation before setting off your journey.

The rental company will inform you where you can pick up and drop off the vehicle, should you want to start in the UK and end your rental on the continent.

Renting a car in Europe

Hiring a car lends itself to making the most of your holiday adventure in Europe.

With many companies, vehicles, and deals on offer, it is important to be diligent in your ordering process to ensure that the rental covers all the things you will need for your trip.

This can include mileage, space, and fuel allowance – as well as being able to travel across borders.

Make a note of where you would like to pick up and drop off the vehicle – with many options at airports and transport hubs in major European cities.

If there is a large group of you travelling on your holiday, it is advisable to share the driving. However, this could impact the price and selection of vehicles available. Speak with the car rental company for all the details.

Can you drive a rental car between countries in Europe?

Yes, in most cases it is possible to travel across borders in your rental vehicle when you hire a vehicle in Europe.

Drivers will need to finalise this in writing with their rental company and ensure that the car insurance is covered in the countries that they are travelling in before setting off.

Certain border crossings require their own documentation and regulations which will need to be approved by country officials and the rental company.

You will need to contact the embassy of the nations you are planning on visiting for the latest information.

It is important to check with the rental company if there are any extra fees for taking the vehicle into different companies.