Car Rental in Lithuania

The average cost to rent a car in Lithuania is around $35 per day. Economy cars, like the Ford Fiesta, are the most budget-friendly option, costing up to 60% less than larger vehicles. Rates can vary based on the rental duration, season, and type of car selected. Booking in advance often secures the best prices.

To rent a car in Lithuania, you must meet the minimum age requirement of 21 years. If you’re under 25, expect to pay a young driver surcharge. This fee compensates for the perceived risk of younger drivers, who are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. The surcharge amount can vary between rental providers, so it’s wise to compare options. Drivers over 75 may also encounter restrictions or added fees. Some companies may deny rentals to older drivers due to insurance limitations. To avoid surprises, always check the age-related terms and conditions before booking.

Economy cars, such as the Ford Fiesta, are the top choice for car rentals in Lithuania. These vehicles are affordable, fuel-efficient, and well-suited for city driving or short road trips. Their compact size makes navigating narrow streets and parking in urban areas much easier. Economy cars are also a budget-friendly option, with rental costs typically lower than other vehicle categories. This makes them ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families exploring Lithuania’s cities like Vilnius and Kaunas, or venturing into the scenic countryside. If you're looking for affordability and convenience, an economy car is your best bet.

Driver’s License: A valid license from your home country is mandatory. If it’s not in a Roman alphabet (e.g., Cyrillic, Arabic), you must also present an International Driving Permit (IDP). Identification: A passport or national ID card is required for identity verification. Credit Card: Most rental companies require a credit card to secure the deposit and payment. Ensure your card has sufficient funds for the hold. Always carry these documents while driving, as they may be requested by authorities during routine checks.

Driving in Lithuania is relatively straightforward, especially if you’re accustomed to European traffic rules. Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and speed limits are clearly marked: 50 km/h in cities and towns. 90 km/h on rural roads. 110 km/h on motorways. Winter tires are mandatory from November 1 to April 1 due to snowy and icy conditions. Roads are generally well-maintained, but rural areas may have narrower or less paved routes. Lithuanian drivers are known for being disciplined, and traffic rules are strictly enforced. Always wear seat belts, and ensure children under three years old are seated in age-appropriate car seats in the back seat.

Most car rental packages in Lithuania come with basic insurance, including Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Third-Party Liability coverage. These policies protect against damages to the rental car and injuries to third parties, but they often include an excess amount that the renter is responsible for in case of an accident. For peace of mind, consider upgrading to fully comprehensive insurance without excess. This additional coverage eliminates your financial responsibility for damages or theft. Confirm the insurance details with your rental provider before driving.

If your driver’s license is issued in a Roman alphabet (e.g., English, French, Spanish), you don’t need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Lithuania. U.S. license holders, for example, can drive in the country for up to 90 days without one. However, if your license is in a non-Roman script (e.g., Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic), an IDP is required to accompany your original license. Always carry both documents while driving, as they may be requested by law enforcement.

Fuel prices in Lithuania are competitive compared to other European countries. As of November 2024, gasoline costs €1.392 per liter, while diesel is priced at €1.386 per liter. Prices may fluctuate slightly based on global oil rates and local taxes. Most petrol stations are open from 8 AM to 8 PM, with some offering 24-hour service, especially along highways. You’ll find unleaded gasoline, diesel, and gas available. Always check the fuel type for your rental car to avoid engine damage.

You can legally drive a rental car in Lithuania with a foreign license. If your license is in a Roman alphabet, such as English or French, no additional permit is required for stays up to 90 days. For licenses in non-Roman scripts, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is mandatory. Both the IDP and your original license must be presented at the time of rental and carried while driving.

GPS navigation is widely available as an add-on with rental cars in Lithuania. It’s a practical tool for exploring unfamiliar routes, particularly in rural areas where signage may not always be in English. When booking your Lithuania car rental, request a GPS unit or consider using a smartphone navigation app with offline maps. Rental companies typically charge a small fee for GPS, but it’s a worthwhile investment for a stress-free journey.

To ensure availability, especially during peak travel times, it’s recommended to reserve your car hire in Lithuania as early as possible. With Finalrentals, you can secure your rental online with just a 15% down payment, paying the balance at the rental counter. This offers flexibility and convenience. Additionally, Finalrentals guarantees no cancellation fees or hidden charges, giving you peace of mind throughout the booking process.