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Car Rental Requirements in Turkey for Foreign Visitors

May 10, 2026
Auris Istanbul Team
Car Rental Requirements in Turkey for Foreign Visitors

Renting a car in Turkey as a foreign visitor is straightforward once you know what to bring. Turkey has a well-established rental industry and welcomes international drivers. This guide covers every requirement clearly, so you arrive prepared.

Valid Driving License

The most important document is your driving license from your home country. Turkey accepts most foreign driving licenses for up to 90 days — which aligns with the standard tourist visa period. Licenses from EU member states, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and most other countries are recognized without issue.

If your license is not in the Roman (Latin) alphabet — for example, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Cyrillic script — you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to accompany it. The IDP translates your license into multiple languages and must be obtained from your home country before you travel. It cannot be issued in Turkey.

Passport or National ID

You must present a valid passport. For citizens of countries with bilateral agreements (many EU countries), a national ID card may be sufficient. Always bring your passport to be safe.

Age and Experience Requirements

The minimum rental age in Turkey is generally 21, though many companies — including Auris Cars — require drivers to be at least 25 years old. Drivers must hold a valid license for a minimum of two years. Young drivers between 21 and 24 may face a young driver surcharge at some agencies.

Credit Card for the Deposit

A credit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit. The amount varies by vehicle class but typically ranges from the equivalent of 200 to 500 USD, held as a pre-authorization. Debit cards are generally not accepted for deposits, though they may be used for the actual rental payment at some agencies.

What You Do NOT Need

You do not need a Turkish residence permit, a local address, or any special insurance beyond what is included in your rental agreement. Auris Cars vehicles come with standard third-party liability insurance, and comprehensive cover options are available.

How Auris Simplifies the Process

Auris Cars was built for international visitors. The booking process works entirely via WhatsApp in English and Arabic, documents are checked quickly, and vehicles are ready at pickup. There is no complicated paperwork, no hidden surcharges, and no language barrier. Whether you are arriving at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen, the process is designed to get you on the road fast.

Bring your license, passport, and credit card — and let Auris Cars handle the rest. Renting a car in Turkey has never been more accessible for foreign visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car in Turkey with my foreign driving license?

Yes. Turkey accepts most foreign driving licenses for up to 90 days. If your license is not in the Roman alphabet, you must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained from your home country.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Turkey?

An IDP is required if your license is in a non-Roman script (e.g., Arabic, Chinese, Korean). For Roman alphabet licenses (EU, US, UK, etc.), an IDP is recommended but not always mandatory.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Turkey?

The legal minimum is 21, but Auris Cars requires drivers to be at least 25 years old with a minimum of 2 years of driving experience.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Turkey?

Yes. A credit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit pre-authorization. Debit cards are typically not accepted for deposits.

What happens if my license is in Arabic script?

If your license is in Arabic or any non-Roman script, you must carry a valid International Driving Permit alongside it. The IDP must be issued in your home country before you arrive in Turkey.

Ready to explore? Auris provides 24/7 road assistance across all Turkish and Syrian provinces.

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