Driving in Malta: Rules, Roads and Car Hire Tips

Malta is rewarding to explore by car — the island is small, hire rates are among the cheapest in Europe, and a car opens up the north's beaches, inland villages and Gozo. But it also has a reputation for assertive driving, narrow roads and sparse signage. Go in prepared and you'll find it manageable.

Drive on the left

A British colonial legacy: traffic drives on the left-hand side, the steering wheel is on the right, and roundabouts circulate clockwise. Extra care at roundabouts and junctions is worthwhile in the first hour if you're from a right-hand-traffic country.

Speed limits and road rules

• 50 km/h in urban areas unless signed otherwise
• 80 km/h on rural roads (lower limits for vans, buses and trailers)
• No motorways exist in Malta
• Seat belts mandatory for all occupants
• Children under 12 must use appropriate child seats
• Drink-driving enforced; breath tests compulsory after injury accidents
• Emergency number: 112

Licences

EU and EEA driving licences are valid in Malta without additional documentation. Holders of licences from other countries can generally drive on their national licence for short stays, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended as backup and is sometimes required by rental companies — check your rental agreement requirements before booking and carry your IDP if you have one.

Practical tips

Parking in Valletta and Sliema is extremely limited. Use park-and-ride at the periphery of Valletta and continue by bus or ferry. Mdina is largely car-free inside the walls. In rural areas, roads can be narrow, potholed and poorly signed — drive defensively.

Rural fuel stations can be sparse and some close early or on Sundays. Fill up in town before heading into the countryside. Most rental cars can travel to Gozo on the Gozo Channel ferry — confirm this is permitted in your rental agreement when booking.