Car Rental in Moscow - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Moscow is generally **not recommended for tourists** visiting the city itself. Moscow has excellent public transport including an extensive metro system, making a car unnecessary for urban exploration. The city experiences severe traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours, and parking is notoriously difficult and expensive in central areas. Additionally, driving can be challenging for foreign visitors due to aggressive local driving styles, Cyrillic-only road signs in many areas, and complex traffic patterns. However, car rental makes sense for **exploring the Russian countryside** or taking road trips to nearby attractions like the Golden Ring cities, where public transport is less frequent. Russia drives on the **right side of the road**. Road quality varies significantly—major highways are generally well-maintained, but secondary roads can be poor, especially outside urban areas. If you do rent in Moscow, be prepared for strict traffic enforcement with cameras, winter driving conditions (October-April), and the need for an International Driving Permit alongside your home license. For city sightseeing, stick to public transport and only consider rental for ventures beyond Moscow's boundaries.

International Driving Permit

An IDP is typically required for foreign visitors driving in Russia. Obtain this document from your home country's automobile association before traveling to Moscow.

Minimum Age

Most rental agencies in Moscow require drivers to be at least 21-25 years old, with some premium vehicles requiring drivers to be 25 or older. Verify specific age requirements with your chosen rental company.

Valid Passport and Home License

You must present your valid passport and original driver's license from your home country along with the IDP when renting a vehicle in Moscow.

Credit Card for Deposit

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

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included, but comprehensive coverage (CDW/LDW) is strongly recommended due to Moscow's challenging driving conditions and traffic. Check current coverage options with rental providers.

Russian Traffic Rules Knowledge

Familiarize yourself with Russian traffic regulations, including winter tire requirements (seasonal) and strict alcohol policies. Moscow has specific driving customs and enforcement practices.

Rent from international agencies at Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, or Vnukovo airports for convenience, or explore city locations for potentially better rates - compare options through booking widgets for current availability and pricing.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos, verify you have all required documents (license, insurance, registration), and confirm the fuel policy and return location with the rental agent.

Download offline maps for Moscow in advance as GPS signal can be unreliable in some areas, and consider renting a GPS unit if you're unfamiliar with Cyrillic signage - many international agencies offer navigation devices.

Note that fuel stations are widely available throughout Moscow, but parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive - research parking zones and payment methods beforehand, as many areas require prepaid parking cards or apps.

Allow extra time for your return, especially at airports during peak hours, and ensure you return the car with the agreed fuel level to avoid premium refueling charges - take photos of the odometer and fuel gauge as proof.

Moscow experiences severe winter conditions from November to March with heavy snow, ice, and temperatures well below freezing - winter tires are mandatory and driving conditions can be hazardous for those unfamiliar with extreme weather driving.

Traffic congestion in Moscow is among the world's worst, with rush hours typically running 7-10 AM and 5-8 PM on weekdays - journey times can triple during peak periods, particularly on major ring roads and routes into the city center.

Driving customs in Moscow can be aggressive by Western standards, with frequent lane changes, minimal following distances, and assertive merging - defensive driving skills are essential and right-of-way rules may not always be observed as expected.

Traffic police (GAI/DPS) conduct regular document checks and enforcement stops - ensure you have your license, registration, insurance, and for foreign drivers, an International Driving Permit and vehicle documentation readily available at all times.