Car Rental in Lithuania - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Lithuania is highly recommended for tourists wanting to explore beyond Vilnius. The country drives on the right side of the road, making it comfortable for most European and North American visitors. Road quality is generally good on main highways and routes connecting major cities, though rural roads can vary in condition. Car rental is ideal for visiting the countryside, exploring Trakai Castle, the Curonian Spit, or the Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai. It provides excellent flexibility for discovering smaller towns and natural attractions where public transport is limited or infrequent. Road trips along the Baltic coast or through national parks are particularly rewarding with your own vehicle. However, skip the rental if you're staying primarily in Vilnius, where the compact old town is walkable and parking can be challenging and expensive. The capital has reliable public transport and taxis for local needs. Driving conditions are straightforward for tourists - signage includes international symbols, and traffic rules follow standard European conventions. Winter driving requires caution due to snow and ice. Most international visitors find Lithuanian roads easy to navigate, though be aware of speed cameras on major routes.

International Driving Permit

Generally recommended for non-EU license holders visiting Lithuania. Check current requirements with your rental agency as acceptance varies.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some companies setting higher age limits for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharges often apply under age 25.

Valid Driver's License

EU/EEA licenses are generally accepted. Non-EU licenses may require an IDP - verify specific requirements with your rental company before travel.

Credit Card

A credit card in the main driver's name is typically required for security deposits. Debit cards are often not accepted for deposit purposes.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included, but comprehensive coverage (CDW/theft protection) is strongly recommended. Check what your rental includes and consider additional coverage options.

Passport or ID

Valid passport or national ID card required for identification during rental pickup. Ensure documents match the name on your driver's license and credit card.

Rent from Vilnius, Kaunas, or Palanga airports for convenience, or compare city center agencies for potentially better rates - international chains offer standardized service while local companies may provide competitive pricing.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos, verify you have the vehicle registration documents, and confirm whether you need a highway vignette for neighboring countries if planning cross-border travel.

GPS navigation is recommended as rural road signage can be limited - consider renting a GPS unit with the car or ensure your mobile data plan covers Lithuania for reliable map access throughout the country.

Fuel stations are readily available in cities but less frequent in rural areas, so plan accordingly - parking in Vilnius and Kaunas city centers typically requires payment during business hours, with options for street parking or paid lots.

Return the car with the agreed fuel level (usually full tank) and allow extra time for the final inspection - keep all fuel receipts and parking tickets until the rental agency confirms no additional charges.

Winter driving conditions in Lithuania can be severe from November to March with ice, snow, and reduced visibility - winter tires are mandatory during this period and roads may be poorly lit outside major cities.

Lithuanian drivers often travel at high speeds on highways and rural roads, and overtaking on two-lane roads is common - maintain defensive driving practices and be cautious of aggressive passing maneuvers.

Police conduct frequent speed checks and sobriety checkpoints throughout Lithuania - speed cameras are common on major routes, and enforcement is strict with on-the-spot fines for violations.

Rural roads and smaller highways may have poor surface conditions with potholes, unmarked hazards, and limited signage - exercise caution when driving outside main routes, especially after dark or in unfamiliar areas.