Rent a Car in the Faroe Islands

To rent a car in the Faroe Islands, you need a valid driver’s license, a passport, and a credit or debit card. Non-EU travelers with non-Roman script licenses should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Locals use a Faroese ID and license. Always keep documents while driving—Faroese police conduct frequent roadside checks, and missing paperwork may result in fines or vehicle impoundment.

The minimum age to rent a car in the Faroe Islands is typically 21, though some premium or SUV categories require drivers to be 23–25. A young driver fee often applies for drivers under age 25. Most companies allow rentals up to age 70. You must also show proof of at least one year of driving experience to qualify for car hire.

Car hire in the Faroe Islands starts at $47–$60/day in low season for compact cars, rising to $80–$100/day in summer. SUVs and automatics cost more. Expect a refundable security deposit of $200–$800, depending on vehicle type and insurance. Fuel, insurance upgrades, and seasonal demand significantly affect final pricing.

EU, UK, US, Canadian, and Australian drivers with Roman-alphabet licenses don’t need an IDP in the Faroe Islands. However, if your license uses Cyrillic, Arabic, or non-Latin script, an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended to avoid issues during police checks or insurance claims. An IDP ensures smooth car rental validation and legal compliance while driving in the Faroe Islands.

Basic car rental insurance in the Faroe Islands includes third-party liability, but high deductibles apply. For full protection, upgrade to Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft coverage. Zero-deductible options are available. Always review terms—proper insurance safeguards against accident costs and roadside incidents. Verify if your credit card offers rental coverage before declining supplemental insurance.

Most Faroe Islands car rentals use a “full-to-full” fuel policy: collect and return the car with a full tank. This avoids costly refueling fees. Petrol stations are plentiful near highways and towns. Always keep your fuel receipt—rental agents may request proof at return.

The Faroe Islands have tolls for certain subsea tunnels, like the Vágatunnilin or Eysturoyartunnilin. Purchase electronic passes or pay at booths before using them. Fines apply for non-payment. Confirm with the rental company whether toll access is included; if not, buy passes online or at stations to legally drive on Faroese toll routes.

Faroese roads are scenic but narrow, windy, and often single-lane with passing places. Sheep roam freely, and fog or rain can reduce visibility. Drive on the right with headlights always on. Use GPS navigation—apps like Google Maps work reliably. With cautious driving, foreign tourists find Faroese roads manageable and safe for exploring islands, cliffs, and villages by rental car.

In Tórshavn and other towns, paid parking zones operate during daytime hours. Look for marked areas and pay via apps, kiosks, or coins—fines and clamping are common for violations. Free spots are available outside centers or at hotels. Proper parking is essential when driving a rental car in the Faroe Islands to avoid extra fees or towing.

The amount depends on vehicle class and insurance coverage. A temporary hold is placed on your credit card and released after vehicle inspection. Ensure your card has a sufficient limit—deposits are standard practice for all car hire bookings in the Faroe Islands.

Automatic cars are available in the Faroe Islands, but are less common and 20–30% more expensive than manuals. Demand surges in peak seasons, so book early. Automatic SUVs are popular for hilly terrain.

The Faroe Islands enforces strict speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on rural roads, and lower in tunnels. Speed cameras are widespread. Fines for violations are often charged post-trip via your rental deposit. Ignoring limits, risks, penalties—even after departure.

Winter driving in the Faroe Islands requires winter tires from November to April—mandatory in snowy conditions. Harsh weather, like wind or ice, is common. Roads are cleared, but ferries may disrupt travel. For safety, rent a 4x4 or SUV with good traction. Proper winter preparation ensures secure and legal car rental use during the Faroe Islands’ cold season.

Car rentals prefer credit cards for security deposits due to larger pre-authorization limits. Some accept debit cards under strict conditions, but cash deposits are rare. Credit cards offer better fraud protection and smoother transactions. Always confirm payment policies in advance—using a credit card is the most reliable way to secure your car hire

Having a rental car in the Faroe Islands offers unmatched flexibility to explore puffin cliffs, Mulafossur Waterfall, remote villages, and hiking spots. Public transport is limited to ferries and buses. A rental saves time, suits multi-island itineraries, and enhances access to off-the-beaten-path sites. For independent travelers, car hire is the most efficient and rewarding way to experience the Faroe Islands.