Are you planning on traveling and moving around Malta with your car, but you’re not sure of what to do? Everything you could possibly need to know is right here.

You may be renting a car and driving in Malta for the first time, to travel around Malta’s scenic routes, or you may need tobuy your own car since your long-term staying on the island.

Well, you’ve probably realised that being able to drive yourself around is simply more convenient, faster, and saves time.

In any case, keep reading for some simple instructions on all you need to know about owning a vehicle in Malta.

Driving in Malta

The Maltese drive on the left, since they were once a British colony. Driving in Malta is similar to driving in many other European cities, since there are no significant freeways, but for this reason, it is best to always have a map on hand as you frequently get to your destination by a variety of several different routes.

“Some days, nothing beats a really good drive.” 

Some law pills

When it comes to driving, wherever you are, it is important that you find yourself within the letter of the law.

• Tourists and new residents don’t have to worry, because every foreign driving licence is valid for 12 months after entering the country.
• Even better, if you move to Malta from countries included in the EU, the EEA, Switzerland or Australia, you are able to drive using your own licence still, till its expiration date.
• You do also have the option to exchange your current driving licence for a Maltese one, which will be valid for 10 years (see: Exchange your foreign Driving Licence).
• You should also be aware that the minimum driving age is 18, but those under 23 are not allowed to rent vehicles.
• Be sure to obey the speed limits when driving across the islands of Malta and Gozo as there are both stationary and moving speed cameras at regular intervals.
• You are not permitted to go faster than 50 km/h in built-up or urban areas, and you must not go faster than 80 km/h on open roads.

Alcohol and the Law in Malta

About the use of alcohol, according to the law in Malta, you are permitted to have a maximum of 0.08% (blood alcohol content) in your bloodstream if you are behind the wheel of a car. This is almost equivalent to a beer, or a glass of wine, but if you want our advice, if you are driving it is better to steer clear altogether to be on the safe side.

And if you do feel like having a few drinks, why not order a taxi instead of driving? They will take you wherever you need to go and are reasonably priced.

Anyways, for the most part, experienced drivers will easily be able to adapt to Malta’s traffic rules. Since all driving regulations are founded on common sense, it shouldn’t be too difficult to understand the laws of another country.

Rent a car

It’s quite easy to find a car for rent in Malta. You can find cars available for rent at the airport and major tourist areas.

You can do your booking online, or you can visit the car rental service provider when you arrive in the country. You also have the option to have the car delivered to your hotel, or you can pick it up when you arrive at the airport.

The cost of renting a car in Malta depends on the season. However, if you book ahead of time, you’ll be able to take advantage of huge discounts and other early booking freebies.

Car rental rates are higher during the peak seasons July to September. (See: Car Hire Malta: Best Rates and Insider Tips)

Buy a car

Finding cars for sale in Malta is a relatively straightforward process. If you’ve bought a car before, then buying a car here should be no different.

Malta is home to several dealerships that sell new cars, but you’ll probably pay more here than you would back home. If you want to save some money on your car purchase, look into buying a used vehicle instead.

When it comes time to buying a car in Malta, many vehicles come with warranties of varying lengths depending on their age and model.

Finding a car that’s to your liking is only the first thing. Once you purchase a vehicle from a dealership or private seller, you’ll have to go through a few more steps to complete the process.

The Vehicle Roadworthy Test

First, your car will have to pass a Vehicle Roadworthy Test at one of Malta’s approved garages to make sure it meets all legal requirements for safety and security.

Transfering the ownership

Then, you’ll have to transfer ownership to yourself or another person by submitting relevant document, but it can be done online.

The car’s taxes

Once you’ve transferred ownership of the car, you’ll have to think about the taxes. Your vehicle needs to be registered with Maltese tax authorities. After obtaining receipt of payment for vehicle taxes, you must always keep it in your vehicle, it must be visible through a window while driving or parked publicly.

The car’s insurance

Finally, you’ll have to make sure your vehicle has insurance through an approved company, and carry proof of this insurance in your car.

That’s it! 

Now that you’ve mastered the road rules and have a car, whether rented or purchased, the Maltese roads are finally yours to conquer!

Whether you’re going to work in your vehicle or taking the opportunity to explore the many wonders of the country, being able to drive yourself and not having to depend on any other services can only make your life way better.

If you liked the article, or have any questions or need assistance with this procedure, you can just email us at connect@connecticlub.com, give us a call (+35677600827), or better yet, stop by our offices in the lovely town of Mosta (63 Triq Il-Ballut, Il-Mosta).