Car Rental in Bosnia and Herzegovina - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Bosnia and Herzegovina is highly recommended for tourists wanting to explore beyond major cities. The country drives on the right side of the road, which is standard for most international visitors. Car rental is ideal for discovering the countryside, visiting remote historical sites, and enjoying scenic road trips through mountainous regions where public transport is limited or infrequent. However, avoid driving in city centers like Sarajevo and Mostar where narrow streets, limited parking, and congestion make cars impractical. These cities are better explored on foot or using local taxis. Road conditions vary significantly – main highways connecting major cities are generally well-maintained, but rural and mountain roads can be narrow, winding, and poorly marked. Winter driving requires extra caution due to snow and ice in mountainous areas. Some remote routes may have potholes or lack proper signage. Driving can be challenging for tourists unfamiliar with local driving habits, which can be assertive. Ensure you have proper insurance coverage and familiarize yourself with local traffic rules. A car provides unmatched flexibility for exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina's diverse landscapes, from waterfalls to medieval towns, at your own pace.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Bosnia and Herzegovina's specific IDP requirements. Check with local authorities or your rental agency before travel.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may set higher age limits. Verify specific requirements with your chosen rental company.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. Acceptance rules for foreign licenses vary - confirm requirements with rental agencies.

Credit Card

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

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included, but additional coverage options are available. Review what's included and consider supplemental coverage based on your needs.

Additional Documentation

Passport and sometimes proof of return travel may be requested. Specific documentation requirements vary by rental company - verify before booking.

Rent from international agencies at Sarajevo International Airport for convenience and reliable insurance coverage, though local agencies in city centers may offer competitive rates - always verify insurance includes coverage for neighboring countries if you plan to cross borders.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos and check that you have the vehicle registration, insurance documents (green card), warning triangle, first aid kit, and spare tire as required by Bosnian law.

Download offline maps for Bosnia and Herzegovina before your trip as GPS signal can be unreliable in mountainous areas, and be aware that road signage may use Cyrillic script in Republika Srpska alongside Latin script.

Fuel stations are generally available in cities and along major routes, but fill up before driving through rural or mountainous areas - parking in Sarajevo's old town (Baščaršija) is limited, so look for designated parking zones and pay attention to local parking regulations.

Allow extra time when returning your rental car for a thorough inspection, ensure you return it with the agreed fuel level to avoid surcharges, and keep all documentation until any deposit holds are released from your credit card.

Road conditions vary significantly between major highways and rural areas - expect potholes, unmarked hazards, and poor lighting on secondary roads, especially in mountainous regions where roads can be narrow and winding.

Landmines remain a risk in some rural and forested areas from the 1990s conflict - stay on paved roads and marked paths, and never explore abandoned buildings or off-road areas without local guidance.

Winter driving requires serious preparation as mountain roads can become impassable due to snow and ice, particularly from November through March - winter tires are mandatory and chains may be necessary for mountain passes.

Police checkpoints are common throughout the country for document checks - always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance documents, and passport, as officers may request all of these.