Car rental in Croatia

Renting a car in Croatia: what US and Canadian drivers need to know

Croatia's motorways are modern and tolled, and the coast road is one of Europe's great drives. Between Split and Dubrovnik the road crosses a short stretch of Bosnia and Herzegovina at Neum, so tell the rental company before you book and carry your passport. Taking the car on an island ferry also needs the rental company's OK.

Where to pick up

Which car for Croatia

A compact car handles the coast road and old-town parking best. Manual is common, so ask for an automatic early. Planning Split to Dubrovnik one way? A one-way fee may apply, and if it does, you'll see it before you pay.

License and IDP

Bring your home license. An International Driving Permit is recommended, and some rental counters ask for one. Carry your passport too.

The Bosnia crossing (Neum)

About 9 km of the coast road between Split and Dubrovnik runs through Bosnia and Herzegovina; there are border checks both ways. Ask whether your rental allows driving into Bosnia and Herzegovina and whether a cross-border card is needed. The Pelješac Bridge route avoids the crossing.

Motorway tolls

For now you take a ticket on entry and pay on exit by card or cash; a barrier-free system is being phased in, so follow the signs.

Rules that surprise visitors

Speeds in km/h: 130 motorways, 110 expressways, 90 open roads, 50 in towns.
Headlights must be on in the daytime from the end of daylight saving time in late October until it starts again in late March, and in fog or bad weather any time of year.
Alcohol: the limit is 0.05% (0.5 g/l), and zero for drivers under 25 and new drivers.
Winter: from November 15 to April 15, cars on designated roads need winter tires, or summer tires with chains on board; elsewhere, winter equipment is required in snow or ice.

Island ferries

Many islands (Hvar, Brač, Korčula) are reached by car ferry; ask the rental company before you take the car. In summer, ferries fill early.

Old towns

Dubrovnik's and Split's old towns are pedestrian; park outside (paid).

Ages

Minimum age and young-driver fees vary by company.

Cover in Croatia

Your deductible, what's included.

At the counter

License, passport, a credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit hold.

Road trips

Split to Dubrovnik (about 230 km, 3.5-5 h depending on route and traffic; the motorway and Pelješac Bridge are faster).
Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes (about 130 km, 2 h).
Istria loop: Pula, Rovinj, Motovun (about 150 km over a day).
Ljubljana to Plitvice (about 220 km, 3 h or more, border).

City guides

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit in Croatia?

It's recommended rather than required with a US or Canadian license, and some rental counters ask for one, so bring it.

Can I drive a rental car from Split to Dubrovnik through Bosnia?

Usually yes with the rental company's permission; ask before booking and carry your passport. The Pelješac Bridge route avoids the crossing.

Can I take a rental car on a ferry to the islands?

Only with the rental company's permission; ask first.

Are there tolls in Croatia?

Yes, on motorways. For now you pay on exit by card or cash; a barrier-free system is being phased in, so follow the signs.

Can I drive into Slovenia, Montenegro or Bosnia?

Ask before you book; permission or a cross-border fee may apply.

Is parking hard in Dubrovnik?

Near the old town, yes: use paid garages and walk in.

Can I get an automatic?

Yes, but manual is common; ask early.

How old do I need to be?

Varies by company; usually 21-25 minimum.

Last checked October 17, 2026.