What Are the Documents Needed to Rent a Car in Belgrade?

Belgrade is a vibrant city with a rich history, exciting nightlife, and plenty to explore beyond the city center. From riverside neighbourhoods to nearby towns and scenic routes, having the flexibility to get around can make your trip much easier. Whether you’re renting a car at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport or downtown, the rules are easy to follow. This guide explains the documents and requirements you’ll need, so you know exactly what to expect before picking up your vehicle.

Basic Requirements to Rent a Car in Belgrade

Before looking at specific documents, it’s important to know the basic car rental requirements in Belgrade.

Minimum Age Requirement

Most car rental agencies in Belgrade require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some vehicles require a minimum age of 25. Drivers under 23 to 25 are considered as young drivers and usually pay an extra fee. Always check the age policy before booking.

Driving Experience

Most car rental companies in Belgrade require drivers to hold a valid driving licence for at least 2 years. Some may accept 1 year for small cars, but 2 years is standard. New licence holders do not qualify, so always check experience requirements with your chosen rental agency before booking.

Mandatory Documents to Rent a Car in Belgrade

Make sure you prepare these Belgrade car rental documents to avoid last-minute surprises.

1. Valid Driver’s License

The most important document is your valid driving licence. You must present the licence at the rental desk, as copies or photos are not accepted. It must be unexpired and issued in your country of residence. Rental staff check that your name matches your booking and identification. They also confirm the issue date to ensure you have held the licence for at least 2 years.

If your licence uses a non-Roman alphabet, you must bring an International Driving Permit or a translation. Licences from EU countries are accepted. Without a valid licence, no Belgrade rental company will release a car.

2. International Driving Permit (IDP)

An International Driving Permit is a supporting document that translates your driving licence into several languages, including Serbian. In Serbia, it is required for most non-EU drivers. Many Belgrade car rental companies also request an IDP from EU drivers as a precaution. Serbia legally recognises EU licences, but rental policies can be stricter.

If your licence is issued outside the EU, you should obtain an IDP before travelling. The IDP must be carried with your original licence. It cannot be issued upon arrival. Having one helps avoid rental refusals and simplifies police checks.

3. Passport or Valid Identification

The car rental company will require valid identification to confirm your identity. For most visitors, this means presenting a passport. The name must match your driving licence and the rental booking. Rental staff usually record your passport details and may make a copy.

EU citizens and some neighbouring nationals may use a government-issued ID card instead, if accepted by the agency. The document must be valid and include a clear photo. All documents should show the same name spelling. Without proper identification, the rental company will not release the vehicle.

4. Credit Card in the Main Driver’s Name

You will need a credit card in your name to secure the rental. Belgrade car rental companies require a valid credit card matching your driving licence and passport. The card is used for payment and a security deposit, which is placed as a temporary hold. Deposit amounts vary by car type and insurance.

The card must have enough available credit from major providers. Cash, prepaid cards, and most debit cards are usually not accepted. Without a valid credit card, you cannot proceed with your online booking.

Tips to Prepare Your Documents Before Renting a Car

Now that you know what documents are needed, here are some practical tips to ensure you’re fully prepared before you go to pick up your rental car in Belgrade:

• Create a Documents Checklist: A simple yet effective step is to compile a checklist of all required items. These are the driver’s licence, International Driving Permit, passport, credit card, and booking confirmation. Tick these off before you leave for your trip. This way, you won’t accidentally leave any important documents at home.
• Check Validity Dates: Make sure all documents are valid for the full rental period and beyond. Check that your driving licence, passport, and credit card do not expire during your trip. Passports should ideally have at least 6 months' validity. If anything is close to expiring, renew it in advance. Rental companies will refuse service if any document has expired, even by 1 day.
• Obtain Your IDP in Advance: If you need an International Driving Permit, apply for it before travelling. Some countries issue it instantly, while mail applications can take a few weeks. You cannot obtain an IDP once in Serbia, and it must be issued by the country that provided your driving licence.
• Have a Backup Credit Card or Payment Method: Although a credit card in the main driver’s name is required, it is sensible to carry a backup card or have extra available credit. Deposit holds can reduce your credit limit, so a second card helps cover other expenses. If you only have a debit card, check acceptance in advance, as rules vary. A standard credit card is the safest option to avoid delays and rejections.
• Keep Digital Copies of Your Documents: It is wise to store digital copies of key documents, such as your driving licence, passport, International Driving Permit, and credit card, securely online. These copies are not accepted for rental but are useful if documents are lost or details are needed quickly. Also, carry printed photocopies stored separately in your luggage and protect all copies for privacy.
• Confirm Requirements with the Rental Company: If you are unsure about document requirements, contact your car rental company in advance. Check their website or send an email to confirm whether you need an International Driving Permit, and whether digital licences are accepted, which they usually are not. If you plan special arrangements such as long rentals or cross-border travel, ask about additional paperwork.

Takeaway

Understanding Belgrade car hire requirements before you travel makes all the difference. A little preparation can help you avoid delays, extra fees, or last-minute surprises at the counter. When you arrive organised and informed, picking up your car is quick and easy, so you can enjoy the freedom of the open road and make the most of your time in Serbia.

Rent a car in Belgrade with Final Rentals to avoid complicated paperwork and get on the road as soon as you land. With Final Rentals, booking a car online is fast and simple. Select Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport as your pickup location, enter your travel dates, and choose a vehicle for your trip. Book and manage your car rental at any time. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.