Ukraine car rentals

Road conditions in Ukraine are likely to be the biggest challenge drivers will face, with standards varying widely across the country. So-called "European" roads tend to be paved and in good condition, with road signs in the Roman as well as the Cyrillic alphabet. On other roads, and particularly in rural areas, expect to drive slowly, and watch out for hazards like potholes, livestock, and cobbles. Beyond this, drivers who have some experience and stick to slow speeds should have no problems renting a car in Ukraine.

To rent a car in Ukraine, drivers usually need to be at least 20 years old and have held a valid domestic driver’s license for at least one year. It is mandatory to possess an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) alongside a domestic license. Some agencies impose a daily surcharge for young drivers, such as Budget, where the fee is approx. 590 UAH (22 USD) per day for drivers age 21 to 24.

Gas stations in Ukraine are usually self-service and require payment in advance; most do not accept credit cards, so make sure to always have some local currency on hand. Gas station hours tend to be from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, though some highway gas stations may offer a 24h service. Prices tend to hover just above 30 UAH (1.15 USD) per liter for gasoline, and just below that for diesel. You can expect around 4.35 USD per gallon.

There are three general speed limits enforced in Ukraine, although drivers may find themselves forced to travel much slower, due to the condition of the roads. In built-up areas, the maximum speed limit is 60 km/h (37 mph), while on rural roads the limit is 90 km/h (55 mph). On highways, cars may travel at a maximum speed of 130 km/h (80 mph).