Advice and recommendations

Car Rental in Moldova: Complete Tourist Guide | RentalAuto.md

Posted by author-avatar

Welcome to RentalAuto.md – your trusted guide to car rental in Moldova! Traveling by your own car means freedom, the opportunity to explore cozy wineries, ancient monasteries, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant Moldovan cities at your own pace. However, to ensure this freedom doesn’t turn into stress or unpleasant surprises, it’s crucial to prepare in advance and understand the key aspects of renting and driving in our country. This guide answers all your questions.

1. Main Requirements for the Renter

  • Age: Most rental companies, including partners of RentalAuto.md, require the driver to be at least 21 years old. For some car classes (premium, SUVs), the minimum age might be higher (23-25 years). Drivers under 25 often incur a Young Driver Fee.

  • Driving Experience: Minimum driving experience is usually 1-2 years. Proven with a driver’s license.

  • Driver’s License: A valid national driver’s license from your country of residence is mandatory. If your license is NOT compliant with the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (or isn’t in Latin script), you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Although in practice, Moldovan police often accept national licenses with Latin script, an IDP guarantees no problems. Always clarify this with your rental company on RentalAuto.md.

  • ID Document: Passport (civil or international, depending on citizenship).

  • Credit Card: Mandatory condition! When picking up the car, you will need a valid credit card (Visa, Mastercard) in the name of the main renter. The card must have sufficient credit limit to block the security deposit. Debit cards and prepaid credit cards are usually not accepted for blocking the deposit. The deposit is blocked for the entire rental period and unblocked after returning the car undamaged and with a full tank, but be aware of bank unblocking times (up to 30 days).

  • Booking: Always book the car in advance, especially during peak season (May-September, holidays). RentalAuto.md allows you to compare prices and conditions of different companies and book online.

2. Insurance – Your Protection

Understanding insurance is critical!

  • Mandatory Insurance (MTPL – Răspundere Civilă Auto – RCA): Included in the rental cost by law. Covers damage caused to third parties (other vehicles, property, health), but NOT your rental car or yourself.

  • Voluntary Collision Waivers:

    • CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) / LDW (Loss Damage Waiver): Partially or fully releases you from financial liability for damage to or theft of the rental car. Highly recommended! Almost always included in the base rate, but with an excess/deductible (the amount you pay in case of a claim). The excess amount is specified in the contract (can be €300-€1000+).

    • SCDW (Super CDW) / Full Coverage / Zero Excess: An additional waiver that reduces the CDW/LDW excess to zero or a minimal amount (e.g., €50). Highly recommended for peace of mind! Cost varies.

    • TP (Theft Protection): Coverage against theft. Often bundled with CDW/LDW but may have its own excess. Verify.

    • PAI (Personal Accident Insurance): Life and health insurance for the driver and passengers.

    • GP (Glass and Tyres Protection): Separate coverage for damage to glass (windscreen, side windows, mirrors) and tyres (punctures, cuts).

  • Important! Read the rental agreement carefully, especially the section on coverage, exclusions, and excesses. Ask the employee questions when picking up the car. Check on RentalAuto.md what insurance is already included in your rate and what optional extras are available. Never decline CDW/LDW!

3. Car Inspection – Don’t Skip It!

  • Before signing the contract: Together with the company representative, thoroughly inspect the car from all angles in good light.

  • Documenting Damage: All existing damage (scratches, dents, windshield chips, wear, interior condition, wheels, fuel level) must be recorded in the handover protocol (check-in sheet). Take photos and videos of the entire car, including the trunk, roof, interior, dashboard (mileage, fuel level), wheels, and tires. Ensure all damage is noted in the document and signed by the company representative. Don’t hesitate to point out even minor defects!

  • Equipment: Check for the presence of a spare wheel (or tire repair kit) and jack, warning triangle, first aid kit, fire extinguisher (mandatory by Moldovan law). Clarify how the fuel cap works (which side), the radio, and air conditioning.

4. Driving Specifics and Road Conditions in Moldova

  • Traffic Rules (Highway Code): Basic rules are standard for Europe: right-hand traffic, seat belts for all, no phone use without hands-free, very low permissible alcohol level (practically zero tolerance). Special attention:

    • Speed Limits: In built-up areas – 50 km/h, outside built-up areas – 90 km/h, on highways – up to 110 km/h. Strictly obey signs! Radars (including mobile) are used.

    • Lights: Mandatory use of dipped beam headlights or daytime running lights (DRL) 24/7 when driving outside built-up areas! In the city – depending on conditions (DRL usually sufficient during the day, dipped beam at night/in rain/fog).

    • Child Transport: Children under 12 years old or shorter than 150 cm must be transported only using appropriate child restraint systems (car seats/boosters), suitable for their weight and height. Mandatory requirement!

    • Horn Use: Prohibited in cities, except to prevent an accident.

    • Pedestrians: Yield to pedestrians at marked crossings. Be vigilant, especially in cities – pedestrian behavior can be unpredictable.

  • Road Conditions: Very uneven. Main highways (Chisinau – Ungheni, Chisinau – Balti, Chisinau – Tiraspol/Odesa) are generally in acceptable condition. However, secondary roads, especially in rural areas and those leading to wineries, can be in poor condition: potholes, bumps, broken surfaces. Be prepared for this, adjust your speed accordingly. Gravel roads can become difficult after rain. Watch the road carefully!

  • Local Driving Style: Be prepared for a fairly aggressive and unpredictable driving style from some local drivers: overtaking in unsafe places, sudden lane changes, tailgating, cutting off. Stay calm, keep your distance, be extremely attentive, especially when exiting secondary roads. A turned-on indicator doesn’t always guarantee a maneuver.

  • Navigation: Strongly recommended to use GPS navigation or offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me, Waze). Signage might be insufficient, especially in rural areas. Pre-download maps of the regions you plan to visit.

5. Fuel (Carburant)

  • Fuel Types: Most common: Petrol (Benzină): AI-95 (Regular Unleaded), AI-98 (Premium Unleaded); Diesel (Motorină). Clarify exactly which fuel type your rental car requires (indicated on the fuel cap, in the contract, ask the employee). Using the wrong fuel is a costly mistake!

  • Fuel Policy: Clearly clarify when picking up the car:

    • Full-to-Full: Most common and advantageous. You receive the car with a full tank and must return it with a full tank. Keep the receipt from the last refuel before return.

    • Full-to-Empty: You pay for a full tank upon collection and return the car empty. Rarely found and usually disadvantageous.

    • Pre-Purchase: You prepay for a full tank at the rental company’s price (often higher than market rate) and can return the car with any fuel level. Usually disadvantageous unless you plan to return the car completely empty.

  • Where to Refuel: Network gas stations (e.g., Petrom, Lukoil, Rompetrol, Socar, Gazprom) are reliable and widespread, especially along main routes and in cities. Accepted: cash (MDL lei, euros, sometimes dollars) and cards (Visa/Mastercard). Options are fewer in rural areas. Have Moldovan Lei (MDL) in cash – not all stations accept cards or foreign currency.

6. Parking (Parcare)

  • In Chisinau: Parking in the city center is paid Monday to Friday (usually 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM) and Saturday (8:00 AM – 2:00 PM). Sunday and public holidays – free.

    • System: Payment via mobile app (e.g., SMS Parking, EasyPark; parking zones marked by signs and road markings). Can also be paid via parking meters (less common) or SMS (check rates with operator). Read signs carefully! Fines for non-payment or violation are significant. Free parking available at shopping malls (usually time-limited) and on the outskirts.

  • In other cities: Paid parking is less common, but watch for signs. In historic centers (e.g., Orhei, Soroca), parking may be restricted.

  • General Rules: Never park in disabled spots (without a permit), on pedestrian crossings, at bus stops, on sidewalks/grass, double-parked, or where prohibited by signs. Blocking traffic or driveways is a sure way to get into trouble.

7. What to Do in Case of an Accident or Breakdown?

  • Accident:

    1. Stop immediately, turn on hazard lights.

    2. Place the warning triangle (at least 30m from vehicle in built-up areas, at least 100m outside).

    3. Provide first aid to injured persons, call ambulance (112) if necessary.

    4. Call the police (112 or 902). Mandatory to file a report, especially if there are injuries or dispute over fault. Without a police report, the rental company’s insurer may reject the claim.

    5. Do not move vehicles until police arrive (unless they completely block traffic and there are no injuries).

    6. Gather information: Names, contacts, license and vehicle details of the other party, witness details. Photograph the accident scene from all angles, damage, license plates, signs, road markings.

    7. Immediately contact the rental company using the phone number in the contract.

  • Breakdown:

    1. Stop in a safe place, turn on hazards, place the warning triangle.

    2. Call the rental company immediately using the emergency number in the contract. Follow their instructions. Do not attempt repairs yourself without agreement!

    3. If the breakdown is serious and requires towing, the company will arrange a tow truck and, if possible, provide a replacement car (depending on contract terms and availability).

8. Returning the Car

  • Time: Return the car on time, according to the contract. Late return may incur extra charges (hourly/daily rate). If you need to extend, contact the company in advance.

  • Condition: The car must be returned in the same condition as received (excluding normal wear and tear). Fuel level must match the fuel policy (usually Full-to-Full – full tank). Cleanliness: The interior should be clean, without excessive dirt or trash. Excessive dirt may incur a cleaning fee.

  • Inspection: Be prepared for a joint inspection of the car with the company representative upon return. Compare with the handover protocol and your photos/videos. Ensure all damage (or lack thereof) is recorded on the return document.

  • Documents: Get a copy of the car return protocol stating no claims (or noting any damages). Clarify the deposit unblocking timeframe.

9. Additional Tips from RentalAuto.md

  • Book Early: Get the best prices and selection by booking early through RentalAuto.md.

  • READ THE CONTRACT CAREFULLY: Especially the fine print on insurance exclusions, excesses, late return fees, parking fine payments, interior cleaning fees, and restrictions on leaving the country.

  • Crossing Borders: Planning to go to Romania or Ukraine? Mandatory to coordinate this with the rental company when booking and picking up the car! This requires arranging additional documents (Green Card) and paying a fee (Cross Border Fee, usually €30-€70). Taking the car abroad without permission is a serious contract violation.

  • Cash: Always have a small amount of Moldovan Lei (MDL) cash for unforeseen expenses (small parking fees, toll roads, tips).

  • Fines: If you violate traffic rules and a fine is sent to the rental company, they will charge your card for the fine + an administrative fee. Don’t be surprised.

  • Toll Roads: Moldova has a few toll road sections (e.g., Chisinau bypass). Pay cash (lei, euros) or by card at toll booths (plazas). Watch for signs.

10. Benefits of Renting through RentalAuto.md

  • Comparison: Access to offers from multiple verified Moldovan rental companies in one place.

  • Transparency: Clear display of included insurance, excesses, limitations, and extra fees.

  • Best Price: Best price guarantee thanks to competition between rental providers on our platform.

  • Convenience: Simple and easy online booking process 24/7.

  • Support: Help choosing a car, advice on rental terms, assistance with questions.

Conclusion

Renting a car in Moldova is the key to unforgettable journeys through our hospitable country. Despite some road and driving peculiarities, preparing in advance, armed with the knowledge from this guide, and choosing a reliable rental partner through RentalAuto.md, you will minimize risks. Pay attention to documents, insurance, car inspection, and traffic rules. Be vigilant behind the wheel, enjoy the freedom of movement, and discover the beauty of Moldova in comfort!

10 Questions and Answers (FAQ) on Car Rental in Moldova

1. Q: Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Moldova?
A: If your national driver’s license was issued in a country that signed the Vienna Convention and contains information in Latin script, an IDP is usually not required. However, if your license is not in Latin script (e.g., Cyrillic, Arabic, characters) or was issued in a non-Convention country, an IDP is mandatory. We recommend: Always check the requirements with your chosen rental company on RentalAuto.md before booking. Having an IDP guarantees no issues with police.

2. Q: What credit card is needed for rental? Do you accept debit cards?
A: A credit card (Visa, Mastercard) in the name of the main renter is mandatory with sufficient credit limit to block the security deposit. Debit cards, prepaid credit cards, and cash are NOT accepted for blocking the deposit by the vast majority of companies. The card must have a chip and PIN code.

3. Q: Which insurance should I choose? What is an excess?
A: The base rate usually includes MTPL (covers damage to third parties) and CDW/LDW (partially covers damage to the rental car) with an excess (e.g., €500). The excess is the amount you pay if you make a claim. Highly recommended: Purchase the SCDW (Super CDW) / Full Coverage / Zero Excess option, which reduces this excess to €0 or a minimal amount (€50-€100). It costs an extra €10-€20/day but provides significant peace of mind.

4. Q: What is the condition of the roads in Moldova?
A: Road conditions are very uneven. Main highways (between major cities) are generally acceptable. However, secondary roads, especially in rural areas and those leading to wineries, are often in poor condition (potholes, bumps, broken surfaces). Be prepared for this, reduce speed on such sections. Watch the road carefully.

5. Q: What fuel to use and which fuel policy should I choose?
A: The exact fuel type (AI-95/Regular Unleaded, AI-98/Premium Unleaded, Diesel) is indicated on the fuel cap and in the contract. Never get this wrong! The most advantageous and common policy is Full-to-Full (Full Tank – Full Tank). You get the car with a full tank – return it with a full tank. Keep the last refuel receipt. Avoid Pre-Purchase fuel policies – they are usually disadvantageous.

6. Q: How do I pay for parking in Chisinau?
A: Parking in central Chisinau is paid (Mon-Fri 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM). Payment is made via mobile apps (SMS Parking, EasyPark, etc.) or less commonly via parking meters. Read signs and markings carefully. Fines for non-payment are high. Paid parking is less common in other towns, but watch for signs.

7. Q: Can I drive the rental car to Romania or Ukraine?
A: Yes, but only with prior permission from the rental company! Inform them of your plans to cross the border when booking. This requires arranging an international insurance document (Green Card) and paying a fee (Cross Border Fee, usually €30-€70). Taking the car abroad without permission is a serious contract violation with large fines.

8. Q: What should I do if I have an accident?
A: 1) Stop, turn on hazards, place the warning triangle. 2) Help injured persons, call ambulance (112) if needed. 3) Call the police (112 or 902) immediately to file a report. Without a police report, the rental company’s insurance may refuse coverage. 4) Gather details of involved parties and witnesses, photograph everything. 5) Call the rental company immediately.

9. Q: Is a child seat mandatory?
A: Yes, absolutely mandatory! Children under 12 years old or shorter than 150 cm must be transported only using appropriate child restraint systems (car seats or boosters). You can bring your own seat, rent one from the rental company (order when booking, extra €5-€10/day), or buy one locally. Fines for violation are high, and child safety is paramount.

10. Q: How much does rental cost and are there hidden fees?
A: Cost depends on car class, season, rental duration, company. Base rates can start from €25-€35/day for a compact car in the low season. Carefully examine what’s included in the price on RentalAuto.md: Mandatory fees (airport fee if picking up there), taxes, base insurance (MTPL, CDW with excess). Potential extra costs: Additional waivers (SCDW, GP), young driver fee (drivers <25), additional driver, child seat, GPS, pick-up/drop-off at different location, cross-border fee, fuel (if not returned full under Full-to-Full policy), fines, excessive cleaning fee, late return. Always read the contract before signing!