Car Hire in Malta: What You Need to Know Before You Book

Car hire in Malta is cheap by European standards and genuinely useful for reaching the north's beaches, inland villages, Mdina and the Gozo ferry terminal at Ċirkewwa. It's less necessary — and actively inconvenient — if you're based in Sliema, St Julian's or Valletta, where parking is difficult and public transport is excellent.

Important

Car hire rules, deposits, insurance excess and age requirements vary by operator. ImaginaMalta does not sell car hire directly and does not verify live prices or availability. Always check the rental terms with the operator before booking.

Should you hire a car?

• Yes — For the north's beaches, exploring Mdina and Rabat, rural villages, or flexible access to the Gozo ferry at Ċirkewwa.
• Maybe not — If you're based in Sliema or Valletta (great public transport, genuinely difficult parking), or if you're nervous about assertive driving on narrow roads.

Booking essentials

Compare total price including insurance and excess cover — not just the headline daily rate. Understand the fuel policy (full-to-full is the fairest). Check minimum age requirements and young-driver fees.

Confirm whether the car can be taken to Gozo on the Gozo Channel ferry — most operators permit this but some exclude it. Pre-book online for significantly lower rates than walk-up.

At pickup

Inspect and photograph every panel, tyre and interior surface before accepting the car. Note all existing damage in writing on the rental agreement. Bring your licence, booking confirmation and the payment card in the driver's name for the excess hold.

Before hiring a car in Malta

• Check driving licence requirements with the operator before booking
• Check age requirements directly with the operator — minimum ages and young-driver fees vary
• Check deposit and credit-card rules before booking
• Check the insurance excess and any excess-waiver terms
• Inspect the vehicle and photograph any existing damage at both pickup and return
• Confirm the fuel policy before you drive away
• Confirm any ferry or cross-island restrictions, such as whether the car can be taken to Gozo
• Verify the exact pickup and drop-off location before you arrive, especially for off-site or airport suppliers