Crossing Borders with a Rental Car
September 24, 2026 · 5 min read
Albania is perfectly placed for a Balkans road trip, with Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Greece all within easy reach. Taking a rental car across the border is possible, but there are a few things to arrange first. Here is what you need to know.
Get Permission First
The most important step is to tell your rental company that you plan to cross a border and get their written permission. Not all companies allow every country, and crossing without permission can invalidate your insurance, so always confirm in advance.
The Green Card
You will usually need a Green Card, an internationally recognised insurance document that extends your cover to the countries you are visiting. Ask the rental company to provide it and confirm which countries it covers.
Documents to Carry
Carry your passport, driving licence, the rental agreement, vehicle documents and the Green Card. Have everything ready to show at the border.
Popular Crossings
Common routes include Albania to Montenegro near Shkodra, to Kosovo in the northeast, to North Macedonia near Lake Ohrid, and to Greece in the south. Border formalities are usually straightforward.
At the Border
Queues can form in busy season, so allow time. Be polite, have your documents ready, and follow the officials' instructions.
Tips
- Always get written permission from the rental company.
- Confirm the Green Card covers your countries.
- Carry all documents together.
- Allow extra time at crossings in summer.
FAQ
Can I take a rental car to Kosovo or Montenegro? Often yes, with the company's permission and a Green Card.
What is a Green Card? An international insurance document extending your cover across borders.
If you would like, tell us your route and our team will happily help you arrange a cross-border rental, free.