Car Rental in Estonia - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Estonia is highly recommended for tourists wanting to explore beyond Tallinn, particularly for discovering the countryside, national parks, and coastal areas where public transport is limited. Estonia drives on the right side of the road, making it comfortable for most European and North American visitors. Road conditions are generally excellent, with well-maintained highways and rural roads, though winter driving (November-March) requires experience with snow and ice. Car rental makes most sense for road trips to destinations like Lahemaa National Park, Saaremaa Island, or the university town of Tartu, where having your own vehicle provides essential flexibility. However, skip the rental if you're staying primarily in Tallinn – the capital has efficient public transport, compact walkable areas, and limited parking. City driving can be challenging during rush hours, and parking fees add up quickly. Driving in Estonia is straightforward for tourists, with clear signage (often in multiple languages) and courteous drivers. Winter tires are mandatory from December to March. For current rental rates and availability, check the booking options below rather than booking far in advance, as prices vary seasonally.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Estonia's specific IDP requirements. Check with Estonian authorities or your rental agency before travel.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies in Estonia typically require drivers to be 21-25 years old, though specific requirements vary by company. Young driver surcharges may apply.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is generally accepted for short-term visitors. EU licenses are widely recognized.

Credit Card

A credit card in the driver's name is typically required for security deposits. Debit cards may not be accepted by all rental agencies.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is usually included in rentals, but additional coverage options are available. Verify what's included and consider supplemental coverage.

Passport or ID

Valid passport or national ID card required for identification when renting a vehicle in Estonia.

Rent from Tallinn Airport or city center locations where major international agencies operate - compare rates online but verify current prices and availability through booking platforms as rates vary seasonally.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos, verify the fuel policy (full-to-full is standard), and confirm you have the vehicle registration documents and emergency contact numbers.

GPS navigation is recommended as road signs may be in Estonian - most rental agencies offer GPS units, or ensure your mobile data plan covers Estonia for using smartphone navigation apps.

Fuel stations are readily available in cities and along main routes - note that fuel prices vary by location, and parking in Tallinn's Old Town requires payment during business hours with options for street parking or designated lots.

Plan to return the car with the agreed fuel level and allow extra time to locate the return area at airports - take photos of the odometer and fuel gauge, and keep your receipt until the final inspection is confirmed.

Winter driving conditions in Estonia (November-March) require winter tires by law, and icy roads, snow, and reduced visibility are common - drive slowly and maintain extra distance between vehicles.

Wildlife, particularly moose and deer, frequently cross roads in rural areas especially at dawn and dusk - collisions are serious and common, so reduce speed in forested areas and watch for warning signs.

Estonia enforces strict zero-tolerance blood alcohol limits (0.02%) with frequent police checkpoints, especially on weekends and holidays - penalties include heavy fines and license suspension.

Headlights must be on at all times year-round when driving in Estonia, and speed cameras are widespread on highways and in urban areas - fines are issued automatically to vehicle owners.