Arriving at Iasi Airport and planning to explore Romania by car is a great idea. This guide will walk you through the car rental process, from finding your rental company to understanding the roads. We’ll cover what to expect with paperwork, potential costs, and a few things to keep in mind while driving in Romania.
Rental desks are generally located within the main terminal building, often near the arrivals hall. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Ground Transportation’ – they are usually quite visible. Most companies offer a shuttle service to the actual car pickup area if it’s not directly adjacent to the terminal. Several international companies typically operate at Iasi Airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. You may also find some local Romanian rental companies available.
The best car for you depends on your travel plans. For city driving and fuel efficiency, an economy car like a Dacia Sandero or similar is a good choice. If you’re planning to explore more rural areas or need space for luggage, a compact or intermediate vehicle will be more comfortable. Families or groups might prefer an SUV, while those seeking a more luxurious experience can opt for a premium sedan. Here’s a general idea of what you might find:
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy | $20 - $35 |
| Compact | $30 - $45 |
| Intermediate | $40 - $60 |
| SUV | $60 - $100 |
| Luxury | $100+ |
Please note: prices change by season and availability.
Generally, you’ll need a valid driver’s license held for at least one year. If your license isn’t in Romanian, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required. Most rental companies require renters to be at least 21 years old, though some may have a higher age requirement for certain vehicle classes. A valid passport is also essential. Expect to provide a credit card in the renter’s name for the deposit and rental payment. Debit cards are sometimes accepted, but often with restrictions or additional fees. The deposit amount can vary, but it’s typically the rental cost plus a security hold.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers the vehicle if it’s stolen. Often, these come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for in case of damage or theft. You can reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost. Check if your credit card or personal auto insurance provides any coverage before accepting additional insurance from the rental company. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option.
Romania has a network of roads, but conditions can vary. Major roads are generally well-maintained, but some rural roads may be narrow or bumpy. Tolls are required on some highways and are usually paid at toll booths. Parking in cities can be challenging, so look for designated parking areas. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on main roads outside urban areas, and 130 km/h on highways. Be aware of local traffic laws and drive defensively.
If your driver’s license isn’t in Romanian, an IDP is often required. It’s best to check with the rental company directly.
A major credit card in the renter’s name is usually required for the deposit and rental payment. Debit cards may be accepted with restrictions.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself, but often has an 'excess' you're still responsible for.
Yes, tolls are required on some highways and are typically paid at toll booths.
Most companies require renters to be at least 21, sometimes older for certain car types.
Parking in the city center can be limited, so look for designated parking areas or garages.
Report any damage to the rental company immediately and follow their instructions for filing a claim.
Yes, but you’ll likely need to pay an additional fee and the extra driver will need to meet the rental requirements.
Late returns usually incur extra charges, often calculated per hour or day.
You can usually rent a GPS navigation system from the rental company, or use a smartphone app.
Most rental agents at the airport speak English, but it's always helpful to have a translation app handy.
Absolutely. Carefully inspect the car for any existing damage and document it with photos or video before leaving the rental lot.