Renting a car in Iran is one of the best ways to explore the country at your own pace. Public transportation is available, but it doesn’t always take you to remote attractions, villages, or less touristy destinations. With a rental car, you can drive through Iran’s beautiful landscapes, visit historical sites, and travel comfortably between cities.
Compared to flying, renting a car can be more affordable, especially for travelers who plan to visit multiple cities. It also gives you the freedom to stop wherever you want, enjoy road trips, and avoid crowded buses or trains. Whether you start your journey in Tehran or another major city, renting a car ensures convenience and flexibility throughout your trip.
How to Rent a Car in Iran
Renting a car in Iran is simple if you have the right documents, including a valid driver’s license and a passport.
1. Choose Your Car
You can select a car that suits your needs, whether you prefer an economy car for a budget-friendly trip, a luxury vehicle for a comfortable ride, or an SUV for off-road adventures. Rental companies in Iran offer various models, from Hyundai and Kia to BMW and Chery. Prices vary depending on the car type, rental duration, and insurance plan.
2. Book Online or In Person
Many car rental services in Iran allow you to book online before your arrival. You can browse available cars, compare prices, and choose insurance coverage. If you prefer, you can also rent a car in person at rental offices in major cities or airports.
3. Provide Required Documents
If you’re booking a car rental through Visit Our Iran, you’ll need to provide:
- A valid international driving license or a translated version of your country’s license (valid for at least six months after entry into Iran)
- A copy of your passport
- A valid visa
- A refundable deposit (amount depends on the car model)
- For luxury car rentals, the original passport is required
- If you request airport delivery, you may need to show your plane ticket
4. Pick Up Your Car at the Airport
When you arrive in Iran, one of the most convenient ways to start your trip is by picking up your rental car directly at the airport. Major airports like Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport and those in other cities like Shiraz, Isfahan, and Mashhad offer car rental services right on-site. This makes it easy for you to get on the road as soon as you land, without the hassle of waiting for taxis or public transportation.
You can book your car in advance through Visit Our Iran and arrange for a smooth pickup upon arrival. This option saves you time and ensures you have a car ready to go, whether you’re heading straight to a business meeting or exploring the country.
Flexible Pickup Locations Across Major Cities
If you prefer not to pick up your rental car at the airport, there are plenty of other flexible pickup locations throughout Iran’s major cities. You can choose to collect your car from convenient spots in city centers or even have it delivered directly to your hotel or accommodation. Rental services in Iran offer these flexible options to ensure that you can start your journey on your own terms.
For instance, if you’re staying in central Tehran or Shiraz, you can arrange a pickup at a location near your accommodation, saving you the time and effort of traveling to a rental office or airport. This flexibility allows you to plan your trip according to your schedule and convenience, without needing to worry about where to pick up your car.
Popular Car Rental Locations in Iran
Tehran is a top car rental spot, with pickups available in the city center and at Imam Khomeini and Mehrabad airports. In Mashhad, renting a car is convenient for visiting religious sites and nearby Neyshabur and Torghabeh. Isfahan’s stunning architecture and proximity to Kashan and Na’in make it a great city to explore by car. In Shiraz, a rental makes it easy to visit its famous gardens and Persepolis. Finally, Yazd’s desert charm is best experienced with a car, allowing you to reach nearby villages.
5. Choose Your Insurance Plan
Rental companies in Iran offer two types of insurance:
- Basic Insurance (Free): Covers essential protection but leaves the renter responsible for major damages.
- Full Insurance (LDW): Provides complete coverage, limiting financial responsibility to the deposit amount. This plan includes roadside assistance, theft protection, and damage coverage.
6. Drive and Explore
Once you have your rental car, you can drive across Iran and explore various cities, historical landmarks, and natural attractions. Be mindful of local traffic rules, speed limits, and toll roads. If you face any technical issues, most rental services offer roadside assistance and car replacement in case of breakdowns.
Luxury Car Rental in Iran: What You Need to Know
If you’re looking for a high-end experience while traveling in Iran, renting a luxury car can be a great option. However, there are specific requirements and rules you need to be aware of before making a reservation. From required documents to mileage limits, understanding these details will help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth rental process.
Mileage Limitation: Understanding the Restrictions
Car rental companies in Iran set a daily mileage limit on rental vehicles to manage maintenance and prevent excessive wear and tear. This limit specifies the maximum number of kilometers you can drive per day. If you exceed the limit, you will have to pay an extra fee based on the additional distance driven.
- For luxury cars, the daily mileage limit is 150 kilometers.
- The mileage is recorded when you pick up the car and again when you return it.
- If you exceed the limit, extra charges will be added to your final bill.
To avoid unexpected costs, plan your routes carefully and check the rental agreement for the exact rates charged for exceeding the mileage cap.
NOTE: In addition to the standard required documents, you will need to provide your original passport when renting a super luxury car in Iran. This is a necessary step to verify your identity and complete the rental process.
Car Rental Prices in Iran
Car rental prices in Iran depend on the type of car, rental duration, and insurance coverage. Below are approximate daily rental prices:
- SUVs and Luxury Cars (BMW, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata): $125–$750 per day
- Mid-Range Cars (Hyundai Elantra, Kia Cerato): $55–$97 per day
- Budget Cars (IKCO Samand, Peugeot 405): $30–$55 per day
A refundable deposit is required, ranging from $850 to $4,500, depending on the car type. Long-term rentals often come with discounted rates.
Is Car Rental in Iran Cheap?
Yes! Just like traveling in Iran is generally affordable, car rental prices are also much lower than in many other countries due to economic conditions. This means you can rent a car at a great price and explore Iran freely. With a rental car, you can visit historical sites, natural attractions, and even remote villages at your own pace. Plus, fuel prices in Iran are much cheaper than in most countries, making road trips even more budget-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a luxury experience or a simple ride, renting a car in Iran is a cost-effective way to travel comfortably.
Payment Solutions with the Visit Our Iran Debit Card
Due to international sanctions, foreign credit cards are generally not accepted in Iran. However, you can use the Visit Our Iran Debit Card service, which allows you to make secure and convenient payments during your stay. This debit card can be easily obtained at airports upon arrival and helps you manage transactions without hassle. With this service, you can make purchases at many locations across Iran, making it easier to enjoy your trip.
Iranian Budget and Local Rental Cars
If you’re planning to rent a car in Iran, you’ll mostly come across local brands made by two major car manufacturers: Iran Khodro and Saipa. These cars are budget-friendly, widely available, and easy to drive, which is why most rental companies use them.
Iran Khodro and Saipa produce popular models like Samand, Peugeot 206, Peugeot 207, Peugeot Pars, Peugeot 405, Tondar 90 (Renault Logan), Rana, and the Dena, Cerato, and Renault Sandero. They also offer pickups like Haima and Nissan Terra which are better for road trips or travel outside the city. These cars are practical and suitable for city driving as well as longer drives between cities like Tehran, Isfahan, or Shiraz.
These cars are easy to maintain, fuel-efficient, and good for both short trips in town and long-distance travel. Roads in Iran are generally in good condition, fuel is cheap, and local cars are made to handle the local driving environment. Just make sure to drive carefully and follow the traffic rules. For a smoother experience, it’s a good idea to rent your car through trusted services like Visit Our Iran, which can help with car options, insurance, English support, and paperwork.
Renting a Self-Drive Car in Iran
Renting a self-drive car in Iran is also a convenient option for travelers who want to explore the country at their own pace. To rent a car, you need an international driving license or a valid national license (with an official translation), a passport, a tourist visa, and a refundable deposit. If you’re picking up the car at the airport, a plane ticket is required.
Driving is on the right-hand side, and rental services offer flexible pick-up and drop-off locations, including major cities and airports. The rental process is simple: select a car online, submit documents, receive confirmation, and pick up the vehicle.
Pricing varies based on car type and rental duration, with discounts for longer rentals. Insurance options range from basic coverage to full protection, including liability, theft, and minor damage coverage.
Additional Services and Costs
Most rental services offer additional options such as:
- GPS Navigation (included in some rentals)
- Child Seats (available for an extra fee)
- Additional Drivers (may require an extra charge)
- Airport Pickup and Delivery (small delivery fee applies)
- Fuel and Road Tolls (the renter is responsible for these costs)
Driving in Iran: What You Need to Know
Before hitting the road in Iran, it’s important to be aware of the local driving rules and road conditions. While driving in Iran can be an exciting experience, following the rules and understanding the roads will ensure a smooth journey. Here’s what you need to know:
- Traffic Rules: Iran follows right-hand driving. Seat belts are mandatory, and using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited.
- Speed Limits: Highways: 120 km/h, Urban Areas: 50-80 km/h
- Fuel Availability: Gas stations are widely available, and fuel prices are lower than in many other countries.
- Road Conditions: Major highways are in good condition, but some rural roads may be challenging to navigate.
Comprehensive Insurance and Support for a Secure Journey
Visit Our Iran’s car rental service offers a flexible and convenient way to explore the country at your own pace. If you’re traveling for leisure or business, you can choose from a range of vehicles that cater to different preferences and needs. With features like online booking, customer support, and various insurance options, your journey through Iran can be both smooth and secure. Additionally, the service provides flexible pick-up and drop-off locations, making it easier to plan your trip across the country’s diverse landscapes.
