Renting a Car in Italy in 2023: Here's What You Need to Know

Are you planning a trip to Italy in 2023 and wondering about renting a car? Look no further! This article will cover all the essential information you need to know about renting a car in Italy, from driver’s license requirements to age restrictions, insurance options, and specific Italian road rules.

Learn about navigating the beautiful Italian countryside easily and confidently by understanding the nuances of renting a car in Italy. Discover everything you need to know about renting a car in Italy in this guide.

Renting a Car in Italy in 2023: Is it Worth it?

Renting a car in Italy in 2023 can be an excellent option for some parts of the country, but only sometimes necessary.
A car is essential in Tuscany, Puglia, Calabria, Basilicata, Sicily, and Sardinia.
However, cities like Venice, Rome, Bologna, Florence, Milan, or Naples, where you will find brutal traffic and expensive parking, are best visited by train.
Cinque Terre, Sorrento, and the Amalfi coast are also not ideal for cars.
Renting a car in Italy can also be expensive and stressful for some, depending on traffic and non-motorway driving.
Legal requirements for renting a car in Italy include a minimum age of 21, with additional insurance costs for drivers under 25 or over 70.

A Few Things to Remember

Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind when renting a car in Italy:

Driver’s License

If your license is outside of Italy, you must have a valid driver’s license from your home country and an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).

Age Restrictions

Most rental car companies in Italy require renters to be at least 21 years old and to have held their driver’s license for at least 1 year. Some companies may have different age restrictions or additional requirements, so check with the rental car company before making your reservation.

Car Insurance While Driving in Italy

Check what kind of insurance the rental car company provides and what it covers before renting the car. In Italy, there is mandatory insurance called the “RC” (Responsabilità Civile).

Payment

You’ll need a credit card in your name to reserve a rental car and to cover any additional charges or insurance fees.

Navigation

Some rental cars come with GPS navigation systems, while others do not. Bring your device or rent one from a car rental company if you use a GPS.

Fuel Policy

Familiarize yourself with the fuel policy of the car rental company. Some companies will provide the full car tank, while others will expect it to be returned full tank.

Specific Italian Rules

Some roads have tolls in Italy, and the speed limits differ depending on the type of road. It is essential to know these rules and abide by them while driving in Italy.

One-Way Rental

Some car rental companies offer one-way rentals, which allow you to pick up the car in one location and drop it off in another. However, this service can be more expensive than a round-trip rental, so be sure to factor that in when planning your trip.

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By keeping these things in mind, you should be well-prepared to rent a car and enjoy your trip to Italy.

Can You Rent a Car in Italy with a US Driver’s License?

Yes, you can rent a car in Italy with a valid driver’s license from the United States. However, most rental car companies in Italy will require you to have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) in addition to your US driver’s license. An IDP is an official translation of your driver’s license into several languages. It serves as a form of identification for car rental companies and law enforcement in foreign countries.

It’s important to note that IDP is not a substitute for your driver’s license. You must have the original driver’s license and the IDP to rent a car in Italy.

You can apply for an IDP through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Make sure to do it well before your trip, as it may take several weeks to process.

Also, remember that the car rental company could have additional requirements regarding age, insurance, or credit card, so it is essential to check with them before making a reservation.