Car Rental in Latvia - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Latvia is highly recommended for exploring beyond Riga, particularly if you want to discover the countryside, coastal areas, and smaller towns at your own pace. Latvia drives on the right side of the road, which is standard for continental Europe and straightforward for most international visitors. Car rental makes excellent sense for road trips to destinations like Sigulda, Cēsis, the Gauja National Park, or the Baltic coast, where public transport connections can be infrequent. The road network is generally well-maintained, with major highways in good condition, though some rural roads may be narrower or less developed. However, skip the rental if you're staying primarily in Riga. The capital has efficient public transport, compact walkable areas, and limited parking in the Old Town. City driving involves navigating one-way streets and paying for parking, making a car more hassle than help. Driving conditions are manageable for tourists familiar with European road rules. Winter driving (November-March) requires extra caution due to snow and ice. Most international driving licenses are accepted, and rental companies operate at Riga Airport and city locations. Check current rental rates and availability through booking platforms, as prices vary by season and demand.

International Driving Permit

Generally recommended for non-EU license holders visiting Latvia. Check current requirements with your rental agency as acceptance varies.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some companies setting higher age limits for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharges often apply under age 25.

Valid Driver's License

EU licenses are generally accepted. Non-EU licenses may require an IDP - verify specific requirements with your rental company before travel.

Credit Card

A credit card in the main driver's name is typically required for the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted for deposits.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included in rentals. Consider additional coverage options like CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and theft protection - check what's included in your booking.

Driving Experience

Many rental agencies require drivers to have held their license for at least 1-2 years. Requirements vary by company and vehicle type.

Rent from Riga International Airport for convenience, where both international chains and local Latvian agencies operate - compare rates as local companies often offer competitive pricing for longer rentals.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos and verify you have the vehicle registration documents, as police checks are common on Latvian roads.

Download offline maps for Latvia as mobile coverage can be spotty in rural areas - GPS works well in cities, but road signs are typically in Latvian with limited English translations outside major routes.

Note that fuel stations may be sparse in rural regions, so fill up before long drives - parking in Riga's Old Town requires paid permits during business hours, while most other areas offer free street parking.

Plan to return the car with the agreed fuel level and allow extra time for the inspection process - agencies typically require 2-3 hours before flight departures for airport returns.

Winter driving conditions in Latvia can be severe from November to March, with ice, snow, and reduced visibility common - winter tires are mandatory during this period and all-season tires may not provide adequate safety.

Wildlife, particularly moose and deer, pose a serious collision risk on rural roads especially at dawn and dusk - these accidents can be fatal, so reduce speed in forested areas and watch for warning signs.

Latvia has zero-tolerance for drinking and driving (0.02% BAL limit, effectively zero), with police conducting random breath tests at checkpoints - penalties include heavy fines, license suspension, and possible imprisonment.

Road conditions vary significantly between major highways and rural routes - secondary roads may have potholes, poor lighting, and minimal signage, requiring extra caution especially after dark or in unfamiliar areas.