Car Hire at Madeira airport (FNC)

List of car rental agencies that operate within the Madeira airport (FNC)

Car hire is the most recommended option for exploring Madeira’s mountainous geography with complete freedom. Customer service desks are located in the arrivals area (Level 0), before passing through the security checkpoint.

Advance booking: To ensure availability and secure better rates, you can search for a rental car here.

 

Requirements to hire a vehicle

To hire a car at Madeira Airport, the following requirements generally apply, although conditions may vary slightly depending on the company:

  • Minimum age: At least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 are usually subject to a “young driver surcharge”.
  • Driving licence: A valid driving licence held for at least one or two years (depending on the vehicle category). If your licence was issued outside the European Union, it is highly recommended to present an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Identification: A valid passport or national identity card.
  • Credit card: A credit card (not a debit card) in the main driver’s name is required to block the security deposit or excess.
  • Insurance: The base price usually includes third-party liability cover, but it is advisable to check comprehensive insurance options to avoid high excess charges.

Latest updates: January 26, 2026

 5 tips for renting a car abroad

What to consider:
 
  1. Certify that you have a valid driver's license to drive in the destination country. If you are a foreigner, check if you need to validate your license in your country of origin. It should be noted that the International permit is NOT valid by itself, it must always be accompanied by the National Driver's License.
  2.  
  3. Documentation and vehicle insurance required according to current traffic regulations.
  4.  
  5. Take into account the traffic rules that currently apply in the destination country. Maximum speeds allowed on highways, avenues and streets, priorities of passage at intersections without traffic lights, tolerance of allowed blood alcohol, etc.
  6.  
  7. Direction of movement and the way in which cars should be driven on the streets. If the side where the steering wheel is located in the cars of your country matches the vehicles in the destination country.
  8.  
  9. Know the procedure to follow in case of starring in or suffering a traffic accident.

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