Driving in Croatia: The Complete Guide

Driving in Croatia – Everything You Need to Know Before You Rent

Croatia is one of the best countries in Europe for a road trip. The coastline is spectacular, the roads are generally excellent, and the distances are manageable. But before you pick up your rental car, there are a few things worth knowing.

From licence requirements to toll roads, from parking tips to what to carry in your car — here’s everything you need to know about driving in Croatia.

Licence Requirements

If you’re from an EU country, your national driving licence is all you need. Straightforward.

If you’re from outside the EU (including the US, UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand), you technically need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your national licence. This is a requirement under Croatian law, and rental companies will ask to see both documents at pickup.

You can get an IDP from your home country’s automobile association before you leave. It’s usually a small fee and takes minutes to process. Don’t risk arriving without it — you won’t be able to collect your car.

Most rental companies also require that you’ve held your licence for at least one year (sometimes two).

Speed Limits

Croatian speed limits are standard European:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h
• Regional roads: 90 km/h
• Expressways/dual carriageways: 110 km/h
• Motorways: 130 km/h

Speed cameras are common on motorways and major roads. Fines are issued by post and can be expensive — don’t speed, especially in rental cars where the fines can be sent to the rental company.

Toll Roads

The main toll road is the A1, which runs from Zagreb down to Split and Dubrovnik. This is the most important road in Croatia and the one you’ll use most often if travelling between the capital and the coast.

Tolls are paid at booths (not automated like some countries). You can pay by card or cash (Euros or Croatian Kuna). Typical costs:

• Zagreb to Split: approximately €15
• Zagreb to Dubrovnik: approximately €30

Is it worth it? In July and August, absolutely yes. The A1 saves 2+ hours compared to the scenic coastal D8 road. In shoulder season, you might prefer the coastal road for the views.

Other toll roads include the A2 (Zagreb to the Slovenian border) and A6 (toward Rijeka).

Driving on the Right

Croatia drives on the right. This is straightforward if you’re from Europe or North America, but it takes adjustment if you’re from the UK, Australia, or other left-hand drive countries.

Be especially careful:

• When emerging from minor roads onto major roads
• On roundabouts (they work the same as in the UK but on the opposite side)
• When you’re tired — it’s easy to drift back to familiar patterns

Parking

Parking in Croatian coastal towns in summer is… challenging. Here’s what you need to know:

• Blue zone: Paid parking. Display a ticket from the machine.
• Yellow zone: Residents only. Don’t park here.
• White lines: Usually free, but often full.

Most coastal towns have paid parking zones in summer (June through September). The earlier you arrive, the better your chances. In Dubrovnik, parking is particularly difficult — consider using public transport to the old town rather than driving in.

Dubrovnik tip: If you have a car, consider staying outside the old town and using the bus or walking. Or book accommodation with parking included.

Fuel

Petrol stations are widely available on major routes. The main types are:

• Euro 95: Standard unleaded
• Euro 98: Premium unleaded
• Diesel: Widely available
• LPG: Available at some stations

Most stations accept credit cards. Unleaded petrol is typically around €1.40-1.50 per litre, diesel slightly less.

Winter Driving

If you’re visiting Croatia in winter (November through March), be aware:

• Mountain roads (the Velebit mountain range, the road through Gorski Kotar) can be affected by snow and ice.
• Winter tyres are required by law in certain highland areas from November to April. Most rental companies fit them automatically — check when you book.
• Check weather conditions before setting out on mountain routes. Roads can be closed temporarily during heavy snow.

Emergency Numbers

• 112: General emergency number (police, fire, ambulance)
• 1987: HAK (Croatian Automobile Club) roadside assistance

What to Carry in Your Car

Croatian law requires:

• Driving licence (and IDP if applicable)
• Passport (or national ID card for EU citizens)
• Vehicles registration document (provided by rental company)
• Insurance documents (provided by rental company)
• Reflective vest: Must be in the car (not worn, but accessible). Mandatory to wear if breaking down on a motorway.
• Warning triangle: Most rental cars have this, but check.

Rent through Croatia car hire, Split car hire, or Zagreb car hire for the best prices and selection.

Frequently Asked Questions