Car Rental and Driving in Turkey
Renting a car in Turkey is straightforward, but understanding the local driving culture and rules is crucial for your safety. Here is everything you need to know.
Key Rental Requirements
Driver's License: A valid EU/EEA national driver's license (in the Latin alphabet) is sufficient. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required. Always carry your passport with you.
Age: Most companies require a minimum age of 21 for economy cars. A young driver surcharge often applies to those under 25.
Credit Card: A credit card in the main driver's name is mandatory for the security deposit, even if you pay for the rental with a debit card.
The "Unwritten" Rules of the Road
Turkish driving culture is energetic and can be unpredictable. Always drive defensively!
Use of Horn: The horn is used frequently as a form of communication ("I am here," "I am overtaking"), not necessarily as a sign of aggression.
Right of Way: The "priority to the right" rule is rarely followed. Right of way often goes to the larger, faster, or more assertive driver. Be cautious at intersections and roundabouts.
Tolls (HGS): Motorways use an electronic toll system (HGS). Rental cars are equipped with a sticker; tolls are calculated and typically deducted from your deposit after the rental.
I. Rental Basics: Requirements, Insurance, and Tips
Understanding Insurance
The rental price always includes mandatory Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL), which covers damage to other vehicles and property, but not to your rental car.
Full Protection: It is highly recommended to get full insurance with zero excess (SCDW - Super Collision Damage Waiver). This saves you from significant costs in case of scratches or dents. Read the contract carefully to ensure it doesn't exclude key parts like tires, windscreen, or the undercarriage.
Theft Protection (TP) should also be included in your comprehensive insurance package.
Choosing a Rental Company
While small, local companies may offer tempting low prices, they can sometimes come with issues like inadequate insurance, older vehicles, or disputes over the security deposit.
Recommendation: For peace of mind, prefer well-known international or major Turkish brands (e.g., Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Enterprise, Sixt, Garenta, Rent Go).
Crucial Tip: Before driving away, take photos and videos of the car from all angles. Document every existing scratch, dent, or scuff to avoid being wrongly charged for pre-existing damage.
II. Traffic Rules & Law Enforcement
Speed Limits and General Rules
In urban areas: 50 km/h
On rural two-lane highways: 90 km/h
On divided highways: 110 km/h
On motorways (otoyol): 120 - 140 km/h
Safety: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal.
Alcohol: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.5 promilli). However, the safest policy is zero tolerance. Police checks are common.
Police and Checkpoints
It is common to encounter police or military checkpoints at the entrance/exit of cities and on major highways. These are operated by the Trafik Polisi (Traffic Police) or, in rural areas, the Jandarma (Gendarmerie). Officers are typically armed; this is standard procedure and not a threat.
What to Expect: You will be signaled to stop. Simply present your driver's license and passport. Be polite and answer any questions. Exiting Antalya Airport, it's very common for traffic police to check rental car documents.
In Case of an Accident: If you have an accident, no matter how minor, do not move the car. Call the police/gendarmerie immediately (dial 112) and wait for them to file an official report. This report is essential for your insurance claim.
III. Fueling and Gas Stations (Petrol İstasyonu)
Diesel, Gasoline, and Fuel Types
The main fuel types in Turkey are:
- Diesel: Labeled as Dizel or Motorin.
- Gasoline (Petrol): Labeled as Kurşunsuz Benzin 95 (Unleaded 95).
- Autogas: Labeled as LPG (very common for local cars).
Warning: Never put Dizel/Motorin in a Benzin car, or vice versa! Double-check the fuel type of your rental car before refueling.
The Refueling Process
Full Service: Gas stations in Turkey are almost always full-service. You do not need to pump the fuel yourself.
- Drive up to the pump and tell the attendant the fuel type and how much you want, either by the amount in Lira (e.g., "500 Lira") or by saying "Full" ("dolu" in Turkish).
- Payment is handled by the attendant, usually with a portable card terminal right at the pump. It's a convenient and secure process.
IV. Other Rentals: Scooters, Bikes & More
Moped and Scooter Rental
Popularity: Renting a scooter is very common in coastal resorts.
Requirements: A valid A, A1, or AM category license is required. Wearing a helmet is mandatory. Carefully read the insurance terms regarding theft and damage.
Safety Note: Only rent a scooter if you are an experienced and confident rider, as traffic can be chaotic.
Bicycles and E-Scooters
Bicycles: Great for recreational use in areas with dedicated paths, like along the Fethiye or Antalya coastlines. Less suitable for city commuting due to heavy traffic.
E-Scooters: App-based e-scooters (like Martı) are becoming popular in major cities and resorts. They are best used on promenades and bike lanes; riding them in heavy traffic is not recommended.