Planning a holiday in Greece, a weekend getaway in Romania, a ski trip to Austria, a business trip to Serbia, or a longer European road trip? Traveling abroad with a rental car is a convenient option when you want greater flexibility, comfort, freedom, and fewer worries along the way.
In the following guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about international travel with a rental car - from the required documents to practical tips for a smooth and hassle-free journey.
1. When Is It Possible to Travel Abroad with a Rental Car?
To travel abroad with a rental vehicle from MOTO-PFOHE Rent a Car, you need to indicate during the reservation process that you are planning an international trip and specify your destination. This allows our team to prepare all the necessary documentation and take care of every detail, so you can travel with complete peace of mind and without unnecessary administrative work.
Some countries may be subject to specific conditions or restrictions, so it is important to inform us in advance about every country you intend to visit. For destinations outside the European Union (such as Serbia, North Macedonia, or Türkiye), it is mandatory to arrange a Green Card Insurance Certificate valid for the respective country, as well as an officially notarised Power of Attorney in English authorising you to drive the vehicle abroad.
2. What Documents Are Required?
Just as when driving your own vehicle, you should always carry your personal documents together with the vehicle documentation in an easily accessible place inside the car. The only difference is that we will prepare a few additional documents to ensure a smooth border crossing:
- Rental Agreement confirming your right to drive the vehicle, together with the rental terms and rental period;
- Notarised Power of Attorney authorising you to drive the vehicle outside Bulgaria;
- Green Card Insurance Certificate, serving as international proof of Third-Party Liability Insurance and providing cover for the countries included in your itinerary;
- Vehicle Registration Certificate;
- Insurance documents, where applicable.
3. Cross Border Fee
A one-time Cross Border Fee applies whenever a rental vehicle is taken outside Bulgaria.
The fee covers the administrative costs of issuing the Power of Attorney, preparing the required documentation, and the additional procedures associated with using the vehicle abroad.
The amount depends on the selected vehicle group and will be confirmed at the time of booking.
4. What Insurance Is Recommended When Travelling Abroad?
Every vehicle is supplied with insurance coverage in accordance with the rental terms.
The rental price includes compulsory Third-Party Liability Insurance, as well as the following two standard coverages:
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) - Protection in the event of vehicle damage resulting from a collision.
TP (Theft Protection) - Protection in the event the vehicle is stolen.
Thanks to the included CDW and TP coverages, should an accident or theft occur, your financial responsibility is limited to a predetermined excess amount rather than the full value of the damage.
Why is the standard protection often not enough when travelling abroad?
International journeys usually involve longer distances, unfamiliar roads, different traffic regulations, and an increased likelihood of minor incidents such as chipped windscreens or damaged tyres. These are more common on motorways, mountain roads, ferries, car parks, and at border crossings.
For this reason, choosing a higher level of protection is strongly recommended when travelling internationally.
Medium Coverage: A budget-friendly option that reduces both the security deposit and your financial liability in the event of an incident. It covers damage to a single body panel but does not include protection for tyres or the windscreen.
Full Coverage: The most suitable option for travelling abroad, especially if your route includes long distances, motorways, mountain roads, or busy tourist destinations. It significantly reduces the risk of unexpected expenses in the event of damage or theft, providing greater peace of mind throughout your journey. It also includes protection for the windscreen and tyres—two of the components most vulnerable during long-distance travel.
5. What Should You Do in the Event of an Incident Abroad?
If your vehicle is damaged, involved in a road traffic accident, or stolen, reacting quickly and following the correct procedure is essential:
- Notify the local authorities (Police) immediately.
- Request an official police report or other official document confirming the incident.
- Contact us as soon as possible so we can provide you with further instructions.
- Keep all documents, photographs, and any other information related to the incident.
An official document issued by the local authorities is mandatory for the insurance claim to be accepted and processed.
6. Vignettes, Toll Charges and Local Traffic Regulations Abroad
All MOTO-PFOHE Rent a Car vehicles are provided with a valid Bulgarian vignette.
However, all road charges incurred outside Bulgaria - including toll roads, vignettes, electronic toll systems, ferries, parking fees, and any other local road charges - are the responsibility of the renter.
We recommend checking the following before you travel:
Toll Systems: Research the toll payment systems in every country along your route. Some countries require an electronic vignette to be purchased in advance, while others collect tolls at motorway toll stations. In larger cities, you may also encounter low-emission or restricted traffic zones that require additional charges or permits.
Local Traffic Rules and Requirements: Make sure you are familiar with the local traffic regulations, including speed limits, daytime running light requirements, and any mandatory equipment you must carry in the vehicle, such as reflective safety vests or a country identification sticker, where required.
Bonus Tip: Download offline maps before your trip. They can be particularly useful when travelling through countries outside the European Union, mountainous regions, or areas with limited mobile network coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which countries are covered by the Green Card?
The Green Card we prepare generally provides cover for European Union member states and neighbouring countries. However, you must inform us of your complete itinerary in advance. Certain destinations outside the EU may be subject to specific requirements or restrictions.
Can another person drive the rental vehicle?
Yes, but only if they are registered in the Rental Agreement as an additional driver and have been approved by MOTO-PFOHE Rent a Car. Anyone who has not been authorised must not drive the vehicle.
What happens if the vehicle experiences a mechanical breakdown abroad?
If the vehicle develops a mechanical fault that is not the result of a road traffic accident, contact MOTO-PFOHE Rent a Car immediately.
Our team will coordinate with our roadside assistance partners or authorised service centres in the respective country to provide the fastest possible solution and help you continue your journey.
Do I Need an International Driving Permit?
If you are travelling within the European Union, your valid Bulgarian driving licence is fully sufficient.
For countries outside the EU, however, some border authorities may require you to present an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your Bulgarian driving licence. In Bulgaria, an IDP can be issued by the Bulgarian Automobile Union.
Proper preparation ensures not only convenience but also a completely stress-free journey.
At MOTO-PFOHE Rent a Car, we’re here to help by offering a wide selection of safe, new, and exceptionally well-maintained rental vehicles for your international travels.