Car Rental in Beirut - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Beirut offers flexibility for exploring Lebanon's countryside, mountain villages, and coastal areas beyond the capital, making it ideal for road trips to destinations like Byblos, the Cedars, or the Bekaa Valley. However, driving within Beirut itself is generally not recommended for tourists due to chaotic traffic conditions, aggressive driving culture, and severe congestion, particularly during peak hours. Parking in the city center is challenging and often expensive. Lebanon drives on the right side of the road, which is familiar to most Western visitors. Road quality varies significantly—major highways are generally well-maintained, but secondary roads in rural areas can be poorly marked or damaged. Traffic rules are frequently ignored, and defensive driving skills are essential. For tourists staying primarily in Beirut, relying on taxis or ride-hailing services is more practical and less stressful. Car rental becomes worthwhile if you're planning multi-day trips outside the capital or want the freedom to explore at your own pace. Be prepared for unpredictable driving behavior and consider your comfort level with challenging traffic conditions before committing to a rental.

International Driving Permit

An IDP is typically required for foreign visitors renting cars in Lebanon. Obtain this document from your home country's automobile association before traveling to Beirut.

Valid Home Country License

You must present a valid driver's license from your home country along with your IDP. The license should be valid for the entire duration of your rental period.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies in Beirut generally require drivers to be at least 21-25 years old, with some premium vehicles requiring drivers to be 25 or older. Young driver surcharges may apply.

Credit Card

A valid credit card in the driver's name is required for the security deposit. Debit cards are typically not accepted for the deposit hold.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included, but comprehensive coverage (CDW/LDW) is strongly recommended due to local driving conditions. Verify what your rental includes and consider additional coverage.

Passport

A valid passport is required as identification when renting a vehicle in Beirut. Ensure it's valid for the duration of your stay.

Rental agencies are available at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport and throughout the city - international brands offer standardized service while local agencies may provide competitive rates, though verify insurance coverage carefully before booking.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos, confirm the fuel policy (full-to-full is standard), and verify you have emergency contact numbers and roadside assistance details from the rental company.

Download offline maps before your trip as GPS signal can be unreliable in some areas, and note that street signage in Beirut may be in Arabic and French - familiarize yourself with major landmarks for navigation.

Fuel stations are readily available throughout Beirut and accept cash (some take cards) - parking can be challenging in central areas, so look for paid parking lots or hotel parking rather than street parking in busy districts.

Plan to return your car with the agreed fuel level and allow extra time for the vehicle inspection - airport returns typically require arriving at least 2-3 hours before international flights to complete the process and reach your terminal.

Beirut's traffic patterns are highly unpredictable with frequent lane changes, minimal turn signal use, and drivers often creating unofficial extra lanes during congestion - defensive driving and constant awareness are essential.

Road conditions vary significantly across the city, with potholes, unmarked speed bumps, and inconsistent road signage common - drive cautiously especially in unfamiliar areas and after dark.

Parking enforcement and traffic rules can be inconsistently applied, but military and security checkpoints are present throughout the city - always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, and be prepared to stop when signaled.

During winter months (November-March), heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding in low-lying areas and reduced visibility - check current weather conditions before driving and avoid flooded roads.