In Iceland, it’s possible to rent a car from the age of 18. However, the choice of models is limited. From the age of 19, you must have a valid driver's license for at least one year.
Most rental companies rent cars to drivers aged 20 and older, usually for an additional fee (starting at €10 per day) and with limited model options. Drivers aged 25 and older are not subject to any restrictions or surcharges.
Not sure if you are old enough to rent a car in Iceland?
Run a check via our platform to find out which cars you can rent at your age and avoid surprises.
You are 18 years old
Of the rental companies we researched, a few have locations in Iceland where you can rent a car. You will pay an additional fee of about €10 per day. There is a limited selection of car models, and a deposit and excess of approximately €2,400 are always required.
You are 19 years old
As a 19-year-old driver, you can rent a car from most rental companies in Iceland. Like 18-year-old drivers, you will pay an additional fee to rent a car. Since you are older, you have a slightly wider selection of models. Starting at age 19, you can rent a car with comprehensive insurance and a lower deposit.
Learn more about rental car insurance options in Iceland.
You are between 20 and 24 years old
The number of rental companies where you can rent a car increases even further from the ages of 20 to 24. Although you still pay a young driver surcharge, you have a wider selection of models with comprehensive insurance.
You are 25 years or older
From the age of 25, all models are at your disposal at each rental company, provided you have a valid driver's license for at least one year. As far as we know, there is no maximum age limit. Always read the terms and conditions before renting a car. It is possible that there is an age limit for some specific models.
What's there to know before you drive in Iceland, about the local driving rules?
Iceland car rental age FAQs
Can I rent a car in Iceland at 18 years old?
Yes. A few companies allow it, but the choice of models is very limited and you’ll pay a young driver surcharge (around €10 per day). Deposits and excesses are high (roughly €2,400).
What changes at age 19?
At 19 you get access to a wider selection of models, and you can often rent with comprehensive insurance and a lower deposit. The surcharge still applies, but the terms improve compared to age 18.
Do drivers between 20 and 24 still pay extra?
Yes, you usually still face a young driver fee, but even more rental companies open up and more models become available, often with better insurance and terms.
What happens at 25 and older?
From 25 onward, most restrictions and surcharges disappear (provided you’ve held your valid driver’s license for at least one year). All models are generally available — though you should always read the specific rental company’s terms in case of model-specific limits.
Is there a maximum age to rent a car in Iceland?
As far as we’ve found, there’s no official upper age limit, but some companies may impose their own rules or require extra verification. Always check the terms before booking.
Do I need to have held my license for a certain time?
Yes. Beginning at age 19 many companies expect you to have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. Confirm the exact requirement in the provider’s terms.
How do I find rental companies that rent to 18-year-olds in Iceland?
Set your age to 18 in the search — it shows which companies accept 18-year-olds and the fees/deposit.
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