Renting a car in Vilnius is a good way to explore Lithuania, and driving here is straightforward, EU-style, with a few local rules worth knowing: mandatory winter tyres, headlights on at all times, and a warning triangle in the car. Vilnius, the capital, is the main pick-up point, well connected to the rest of the country and the Baltic region.
Who can rent, and the licence
Lithuania is in the EU, so an EU licence is valid, and you must be at least 18 to drive, though rental companies usually set a higher minimum age and require some driving experience. A credit card is normally needed for the deposit. Non-EU visitors should check whether an International Driving Permit is needed alongside their national licence. Comparison sites such as DiscoverCars help you check availability and prices in Vilnius in advance.
Winter tyres, headlights, and equipment
Three rules stand out in Lithuania. Winter tyres are mandatory from the middle of November to the start of April, marked with the M+S symbol or the alpine snowflake and meeting a minimum tread depth, and spiked tyres are allowed over a slightly wider window; rental cars are equipped for the season. Dipped headlights are mandatory at all times, day and night, all year and on every road type. And a warning triangle must be carried in case of a breakdown, so check the rental car has one before you leave.
Road rules and booking tips
Lithuania drives on the right, and you overtake on the left. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, and the drink-drive limit is low. Main roads, including the Via Baltica corridor, are generally in good condition. Read the rental terms for the deposit, fuel policy, insurance, and excess, confirm the car has winter tyres if you travel in the colder months, and book ahead in busy periods to get the best choice of vehicle for exploring Vilnius and beyond.