Car rental in Ukraine for foreigners: everything you need to know to rent a car

Foreigners can rent a car in Ukraine for their own needs, but there are certain nuances to consider. Find out what requirements are imposed on foreign drivers, what you need to rent a car, and what companies and cars are best to choose

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Renting a car is the convenience and freedom of movement that you can have even far from home. Whether you are traveling as a tourist, on business, volunteering or just want to explore Ukraine - renting a car will be your best assistant on the road.

However, to make your trip hassle-free, it is worth preparing in advance. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about renting a car in Ukraine for foreigners.

We talked about how to cross the border of Ukraine in 2025 in a previous article.

Information about everything that is needed for foreigners to enter Ukraine in 2025 - the necessary documents, visas, routes and other important nuances in this article.

Detailed information that will be useful when planning a trip to Ukraine can be found here:

- Travel to Ukraine for tourism.

- Employment in Ukraine.

- Immigration to Ukraine.

- Studying in Ukraine.

- Travelling to Ukraine by car.

- Popular destinations in Ukraine.

- Support Ukraine.

Advantages of renting a car in Ukraine for foreigners?

- Freedom of movement

With a rented car, you do not depend on public transport schedules or taxi delays. You plan your route yourself, choose the pace of your trip and decide where to go next.

- An opportunity to see the real Ukraine

A rental car opens up new horizons - from unknown villages to picturesque mountain roads and coasts. This is a great opportunity to explore the country off the tourist routes and feel its atmosphere.

- Convenience for business

For those who have come for work, a rented car is an indispensable assistant. It allows you to quickly move between meetings, be punctual and independent of transport.

- Saving money

If you are staying in Ukraine for a long time, renting a car may be more profitable than daily taxi trips, especially when actively moving around the city or between settlements.

Is it realistic to rent a car for traveling in Ukraine?

Yes, today renting a car in Ukraine is quite possible and quite simple. Rental services are actively developing, offering a wide selection of cars - from economical city cars to comfortable crossovers for long or mountain trips. You will easily find an option that suits your travel style and budget.

If you want to save time and be sure of reliability, use the car rental service from Visit Ukraine. Here you can easily book a car online, order a transfer or use the Meet&Greet service at a European airport or at a Ukrainian train station.

Choose comfort and safety - book a car today!

What does a foreigner need to know before renting a car in Ukraine?

Car rental in Ukraine is available through both national rental companies and international services aimed at foreigners. Car sharing services are also popular in large cities, where you can rent a car directly through an application on your smartphone, without visiting an office.

Rental duration

You can rent a car for a short period of time - for one trip, or for a long period of time - for a month or a year. Long-term rentals are often more profitable, as companies offer discounts.

Car condition and fuel

Cars are handed over clean and with a full tank. When returning the car, it must be washed and refueled. If you are unable to do this yourself, you can use the financial reimbursement option, when the cost of washing or refueling is paid additionally or from a deposit.

Mileage limits and area of ​​use

The mileage limit and area of ​​use depend on the conditions of a specific company. Some services set 300–350 km per day or limit the car to a specific city or region (using special control systems). There are companies without strict restrictions, where the car can be used even for trips abroad with a return to Ukraine.

Restrictions due to martial law

Due to the introduction of martial law, companies limit the operation of cars in front-line and temporarily occupied regions. Before planning a route, be sure to clarify where you can use the rented car.

Driver requirements for renting a car in Ukraine

Ukraine is an open and friendly country to foreigners, so you do not need to obtain special permits or additional confirmation of documents to rent a car.

Any foreign citizen can rent a car who:

- Has reached the age of 21 (sometimes 23 years - depends on the specific company);

- Has a driving experience of at least 2 years.

These requirements are standard for most rental services and guarantee safety for both the driver and the company.

Important! It is worth noting that a person may be refused a car without explaining the reason. This applies to cases when the renter shows signs of intoxication or behaves inappropriately.

What documents do foreigners need to have to rent a car in Ukraine?

To rent a car, a foreigner must provide:

- A valid international passport;

- An international or national driver's license with Latin transcription;

- A bank card (for booking or deposit, although sometimes cash payment is also possible).

Important! The provisions of the Vienna Convention apply in Ukraine, so driver's licenses from most countries are recognized without translation. The main thing is that the document is valid and issued no less than two years ago.

How to choose a car for rent depending on the purpose of the trip?

Most tips on choosing a car relate to technical specifications or design. But when it comes to renting, first of all, you should consider the purpose of the trip - it depends on it which car is best suited.

For city trips

If you plan to move within a large city, choose a compact or mid-range car. Such cars are easy to maneuver in tight traffic and park without problems. An important factor will be economical fuel consumption, because in city traffic jams you often have to stop and start from a place.

For long-distance trips

Comfort and reliability come to the fore during long trips. Pay attention to cars with a spacious interior, comfortable seats and high-quality noise insulation. Ideally, if the car is equipped with such functions as cruise control, air conditioning or Wi-Fi - they make the trip much easier.

For difficult routes and off-road

If your route passes through mountains or country roads, it is better to take an SUV or a car with four-wheel drive. Such cars provide better grip and increased cross-country ability. Pay attention to the availability of useful options - hill-start assist systems, which is especially important in mountainous areas.

Tip! When choosing a car for rent, focus not only on the purpose of the trip, but also on your driving style, number of passengers and budget. This will help you find the optimal balance between comfort, safety and cost.

How to book a car for traveling in Ukraine?

The easiest and most convenient way to rent a car for traveling in Ukraine is online booking. In particular, on the Visit Ukraine platform you can book a car for travel in just a couple of clicks - quickly, safely and without unnecessary worries, the following services are available to tourists:

- Transfers from neighboring countries to the largest cities of Ukraine.

- Car rental with or without a driver.

- Meet & Greet service at train stations.

How does the car booking service on the Visit Ukraine portal work? Step-by-step instructions

Step 1 – Go to the Visit Ukraine portal.

Step 2 – In the “Travel” section, select “Car rental”

Step 3 – Select the location, service category (transfer, car with driver or self-driving) and rental period.

Step 4 – The system will offer all available car options, use the filters to specify the class, car brand and other parameters.

Step 5 – Fill out the booking form in Latin letters.

Step 6 – Make payment (available methods VISA/Mastercard/American Express/Cashless payment).

Step 7 – Complete the booking and receive confirmation in your email.

Read more about how to book a car for travel in Ukraine in this article.

Important conditions for renting a car in Ukraine: features of insurance and deposits

When renting a car in Ukraine, it is important to understand how the insurance and deposit system works. This will help to avoid misunderstandings and make the trip calm and safe.

Insurance for a rented car in Ukraine

A rented car can be insured with two types of policies:

- Compulsory insurance is a basic policy that is usually already included in the rental price. It covers the main risks and minimal losses that may occur while using the car.

- Additional insurance - is issued at the request of the renter and provides broader protection. Such a policy may cover car theft, damage to the body, glass or tires, as well as damage caused to other road users.

Before signing the contract, carefully read the terms of the insurance - which risks it covers and which remain your responsibility.

If you are a foreigner and are planning a trip to Ukraine by car, you should consider taking out CASCO insurance. Mini CASCO is an affordable and convenient option for car insurance that covers the main risks during your stay in Ukraine. Read here how to take out a policy, its options and benefits for foreign drivers.

Deposit (collateral) for car rental

Most rental companies require you to leave a deposit, which serves as a financial guarantee.

The amount of the deposit depends on the class of the car and the type of insurance.

Usually, the funds are blocked on a bank card and returned after returning the car, if there were no violations or damage.

In the event of fines or minor damage, the corresponding amount is deducted from the deposit, and the rest is returned to the renter.

Before accepting the car, carefully inspect it and record all existing scratches or damage - it is advisable to take a photo or video. This will help avoid disputes when returning the car.

Before traveling to Ukraine, be sure to take out medical insurance with military risk coverage. This provides financial protection in unforeseen situations and allows you to travel with peace of mind, regardless of the circumstances.

Don't take risks - take care of your and your family's safety before crossing the border.

What to look for when signing a car rental agreement in Ukraine?

A car rental agreement is an official document that defines the rights and obligations of the parties. Before signing, it is important to carefully read all its terms to avoid misunderstandings or unnecessary expenses.

Key points to pay attention to:

- Rental period. Specify the start and end dates of the rental, as late return of the car may result in fines.

- Cost. Make sure that the full amount is indicated, including all taxes and fees, without hidden charges.

- Terms of use. Find out where you are allowed to drive and who has the right to drive the car. If you are planning a trip outside the region, agree this with the company.

- Insurance. Find out what risks are covered by basic and additional insurance.

- Car return. Pay attention to the exact time, place and conditions of returning the car.

Before signing the agreement, check:

1. Are there any fines for late arrival or cancellation of the reservation;

2. Car condition – take a photo or video before the trip;

3. Deposit and payment terms.

If you have any doubts – ask the manager or consult a specialist.

It is important for foreigners in Ukraine to have support in drawing up contracts and resolving disputes. Contact Visit Ukraine lawyers to get advice, protect your rights and be confident in each signed document.

Road traffic rules in Ukraine

When planning a trip by car in Ukraine, you should know the basic traffic rules. Observing them is not only a requirement of the law, but also a guarantee of your safety.

- Speed ​​limit

The permitted speed within settlements is up to 50 km/h, outside them – up to 90 km/h, and on highways – up to 130 km/h (unless another restriction is set).

- Alcohol and driving

In Ukraine, there is a zero tolerance policy for drunk driving, so even a glass of wine can be grounds for a fine or disqualification.

- Seat belts

All passengers are required to fasten their seat belts, regardless of whether they are sitting in the front or back seat. Violation is subject to a fine.

- Phone while driving

You can only use a mobile phone with a headset or through a hands-free system. Talking, texting or viewing the screen while driving is strictly prohibited.

- Headlights and signals

From October to May, outside populated areas, you must drive with daytime running lights or dipped headlights on.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid fines and make your trip to Ukraine safe and enjoyable.

Renting a car in Ukraine for foreigners is a convenient and flexible way to travel the country, explore its picturesque corners and save time and money. The main thing is to follow the rules of the road, carefully read the rental agreement, insurance and deposit conditions, and also choose a car according to the purpose of the trip. With the right approach, your trip will be safe, comfortable and as pleasant as possible.

Let us remind you! Many international rental companies allow you to travel in a rented car outside the country of rental. But is it possible to travel to Ukraine in a car that was rented in another country? We told you in this article.

Photo – Freepik

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – health insurance with coverage of war risks;

Visit Ukraine Mini Hull Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Osago – compulsory motor third party liability insurance for cars with Ukrainian registration;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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