Slider background image

Providing Car Rental in Iceland Since 1971 | 55 Years of Local Expertise

Pick Up your Car inside KEF Airport. From 4x4 SUVs, campers to Guaranteed Luxury, rent from Iceland's most trusted fleet since 1971.

Rent a car in Iceland with Hertz Iceland

Start your Iceland road adventure with Hertz, the leading car rental company* for journeys big and small.

Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights along the Ring Road, tackling highland F-roads in a 4×4, or picking up a compact car for a quick city break in Reykjavik, Hertz Iceland puts you behind the wheel of a modern, reliable rental car backed by more than 55 years of local expertise. Compare our fleet, check today’s rates, and book your Iceland car rental online in minutes — no hidden fees, no surprises.

Before you hit the road, discover our most helpful resources:
Iceland Driving Guide | Compare Rental Vehicles | Expert Travel Tips


Our Award-Winning Journey: We are proud to hold a 10-year streak of excellence, with consecutive nominations for the World Travel Awards from 2017 through 2026. 

*Hertz Iceland has been crowned “Iceland’s Leading Car Rental Company” in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2025..

Iceland's Leading International Car Rental Company" from the World Travel Awards for multiple consecutive years, including 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021,2022 and 2025.

 

Book Your Iceland Car Rental →

Why Rent with Hertz Iceland?



Quality rental vehicles in Iceland, all under 2 years old



Quality, Modern Cars


Select from a wide range of vehicles
Regularly serviced and inspected.
Fleet are under 2 years old, perfect for every road.





Competitive car rental offers, deals and packages in Iceland - Hertz



Seasonal Iceland Offers


Flexible rental options for every itinerary.
Book easily on hertz.is.





Hertz Iceland trusted car rental company for over 50 years



Local expert Since 1971.


One of Iceland’s most established brand in car rental.
Award-winning service and local expertise.
24/7 Emergency call support





Transparent car rental pricing with no hidden fees at Hertz Iceland



Price You Can Trust


Every rate and tax listed upfront, no hidden fees.
Includes Iceland’s 2026 per-km road tax.


 

For more than five decades, Hertz Iceland has helped travelers explore the country safely and confidently. As Iceland’s longest-standing international car rental brand, we combine global standards with genuine local knowledge — from understanding seasonal F-road closures to knowing exactly which routes call for studded winter tires. Every vehicle in our fleet is under two years old, professionally serviced, and inspected before each rental, so you can focus on the journey, not the vehicle.

At a Glance

*Available as an add-on at time of booking or at the counter.

Self-Drive Iceland

Why Rent a Car in Iceland

Iceland is one of the few destinations in the world where a rental car isn’t just convenient — it’s often the only practical way to see the country properly. Public transport is limited outside Reykjavik, tour buses follow fixed routes and schedules, and many of Iceland’s most rewarding sights — hidden waterfalls, black sand beaches, remote hot springs, and highland valleys — simply aren’t reachable any other way. Renting a car in Iceland means setting your own pace: stopping whenever the light hits a glacier just right, waiting out a rain shower before a hike, or chasing the Aurora Borealis on a clear night without waiting on a tour operator’s timetable.

A self-drive Iceland trip is also frequently more cost-effective than booking multiple day tours, particularly for couples, families, or small groups splitting the cost of a single vehicle. With Hertz Iceland, you get a rental car built for the country’s driving conditions — from reliable compacts for the Ring Road to rugged 4x4s for the highlands — plus the local support network to back you up if the weather turns.

What Makes Self-Drive Iceland Different

Iceland Car Rental Fleet: Find Your Perfect Ride

Iceland Car Rental Fleet: Find Your Perfect Ride — Choose from our wide range of expertly maintained vehicles, including small cars best for solo trips, 4×4 SUVs, campers, motorhomes, and eco-friendly electric cars. Every rental is suited for Iceland’s roads and weather, giving travelers maximum comfort, safety, and flexibility on their adventure.

See our full Fleet

Tesla electric vehicle available for rental in Iceland

Rent a Tesla in Iceland for a smooth, zero-emission ride on the Ring Road and Golden Circle.

Built for highland F-roads, river crossings, and winter travel across Iceland.

Iceland’s cheapest small car rental — ideal for solo travel and budget trips, even during peak season.

A budget-friendly car rental for solo travelers and couples, cheapest booked ahead of peak season.

Full-size car rental offering maximum comfort for Iceland journeys

Extra space and comfort for family trips along the Ring Road and South Coast.

Mid-size car rental perfect for Iceland road trips and sightseeing

A comfortable, fuel-efficient balance of space and price for Ring Road road trips.

Motorhome rental option for Iceland road trips and camping

Combine your rental and accommodation for multi-week Ring Road and highland road trips.

Electric vehicle rental for Iceland

Zero-emission driving with reliable charging access along the Golden Circle and South Coast.

Plug-in hybrid vehicle rental for Iceland

Hybrid flexibility — electric range around town, backup power for longer Ring Road drives.

Automatic transmission car rental for convenient Iceland driving

No manual gearbox required — easy, comfortable driving for the Ring Road and beyond.

Passenger van and minibus rental for group travel in Iceland

Seats 7–9 passengers — ideal for groups and families traveling Iceland together.

Cargo van rental for transporting goods and equipment in Iceland

Extra cargo space for equipment, gear, or luggage on longer Iceland trips.

Luxury car rental for premium Iceland travel experience

Premium, guaranteed-model vehicles for a comfortable Iceland driving experience.

Book Your Iceland Car

Self-Drive Iceland

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Not sure where to point your rental car first? These are the routes Hertz Iceland customers drive most — each suited to a different trip length, season, and vehicle type.

Driving in Iceland

What Every Hertz Iceland Renter Should Know

Driving in Iceland is generally straightforward, but the country’s roads and weather have quirks that catch first-time visitors off guard. Here’s what every Hertz Iceland renter should know before setting off.

Before You Drive

  •  Check road.is for real-time road closures and conditions, especially outside summer
  •  Check en.vedur.is (the Icelandic Met Office) for wind and weather warnings
  •  Headlights must be switched on at all times, day and night, by law
  •  Off-road driving is illegal everywhere in Iceland and carries heavy fines — stick to marked roads

On the Road

  •  Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, 90 km/h on paved rural roads
  •  Many rural bridges are single-lane — the first car to reach the bridge has right of way
  •  Sheep roam freely near roads in summer; slow down in farming areas
  •  Gravel roads (marked with a warning sign) require reduced speed and extra following distance — see our driving tips & road signs guide
Winter Driving
(Nov–Mar)

Between November and March, daylight is short and conditions can change within minutes. Studded or winter tires are fitted as standard on Hertz Iceland’s winter fleet. Strong crosswinds are common and can affect vehicle handling, particularly for SUVs and campers — always check the wind forecast before driving exposed coastal or highland stretches. If road.is shows a route as closed or impassable, no rental insurance will cover travel on it. Full details in our winter driving safety guide.

Road System & Conditions
Top 15 Safe Driving Tips
Fuel & EV Charging
Traffic Laws & Regulations
Parking in Iceland
Coverage & Protection

Rental Coverage & What’s Included

Included

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Third Party Liability (TPL) come standard on every rental. Add-on options are available for zero excess and Iceland-specific terrain coverage, and our team is reachable 24/7 for support.

Every Hertz Iceland rental includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP) as standard, reducing your liability if the vehicle is damaged or stolen. Because Iceland’s terrain is uniquely demanding on vehicles, we also offer optional coverage most international renters don’t expect to need.

Good to Know

Standard coverage does not cover damage caused by driving off-road or on F-roads in a vehicle not rated for them, or undercarriage/tire damage from river crossings. Choosing the right vehicle category for your route — and reviewing our Coverage & Protection Options before you go — is the best way to avoid unexpected costs.

*Roadside assistance is available as an add-on at time of booking or at the counter.

Why US & International Travelers Choose Hertz Iceland

Iceland is a top stopover and standalone destination for US travelers, and Hertz Iceland is built around the needs of international visitors landing at Keflavik Airport (KEF).

Fly to Iceland from the USA — What to Know

Flight time to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) runs about 5–6.5 hours from major East Coast hubs like New York, Boston, and Washington D.C., with direct routes also available from several West Coast and Midwest cities. Airlines including Icelandair, Delta, United, and JetBlue all operate direct flights from the US to KEF. US citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days, making Iceland easy to add as a stopover or a standalone trip. Landing jet-lagged after an overnight flight? Our KEF arrival hall desk lets you pick up your rental car the moment you land, so you can head straight to your hotel or get started on your first day without losing time.

Icon

English-Speaking Staff at Every Location

Every Hertz Iceland location is staffed by English-speaking team members

, so international travelers never face a language barrier when picking up or returning their car.

 


Icon

A Globally Recognized Brand

Hertz is a globally recognized name—the same trusted brand US travelers already know

, now serving Iceland with the same standards you expect at home.

 


Icon

Automatic Transmission Vehicles Available

Choose from a wide range of automatic transmission vehicles

—no need to rent a manual, unlike many European rental companies.

 


Icon

A Dedicated Desk Inside KEF Arrivals

Hertz Iceland is built around the needs of international visitors landing at Keflavik Airport (KEF)

, with a dedicated Hertz desk inside the arrivals hall and summer 24/7 quick pickup.

 


Icon

Built for US & Canadian Travelers

US, Canadian, and other English-speaking driver’s licenses are accepted for stays up to the permitted visa period

, and we work with familiar international credit card and deposit policies for US and Canadian cardholders.

 

Book Your Hertz Iceland Car Rental at a Great Price!


Hertz Iceland adjusts rental car rates daily based on season, demand, and vehicle availability.

Prices are highest in the peak summer months (June–August) and lowest in the off-season (November–March), following the same pattern as other tourism services in Iceland.
For better rates, book early — especially for travel during popular periods — or consider shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) to save.
Longer bookings always reduce your average daily price, so planning ahead can mean significant savings for your trip.

Summer (June–August)

Peak season, with nearly 24 hours of daylight and every route — including highland F-roads — open. Rates and demand are at their highest; book at least 2–3 months ahead for the best vehicle selection. Ideal for the Ring Road, Westfjords, and highland trips. See our Iceland summer travel guide for more.

Shoulder Season (April–May & September–October)

A strong balance of lower rates, thinner crowds, and still-manageable weather. Highland F-roads are typically closed until mid-to-late June, so plan around the South Coast, Golden Circle, and Snaefellsnes. September also marks the return of the Northern Lights. Read our spring and autumn travel guides for details.

Winter (November–March)

The lowest rates of the year and the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, but with limited daylight (as little as 4–5 hours in December) and the highest likelihood of road closures. A 4×4 with winter tires — fitted as standard on our winter fleet — is strongly recommended outside Reykjavik. See our Iceland winter guide for more.

Sustainability

Sustainable Car Rental in Iceland

Iceland’s landscapes are part of the reason you’re here, and choosing an electric or hybrid rental is one way to explore them with a lighter footprint.

Since January 2026, every rental car in Iceland pays the same per-kilometer road tax, so the real cost difference between fuel types now comes down to energy price — and electricity still wins. A petrol rental typically costs around 1,500–1,700 ISK per 100 km in fuel, while a comparable EV charged at public fast chargers usually runs 1,000–1,300 ISK per 100 km — often 30–50% cheaper to “fuel” over a multi-day trip, especially if you mix fast charging with free overnight charging at hotels. On a full 1,300+ km Ring Road loop, that can mean roughly 13,000–14,000 ISK in charging versus close to 30,000 ISK in petrol — around 100 EUR saved on energy alone.

Electric Vehicles

Zero tailpipe emissions and Iceland’s cheapest per-km energy cost, best suited to the Ring Road, Golden Circle, and South Coast, where charging coverage is strongest.

Explore EV rentals

Plug-in Hybrids

Electric range for daily driving with petrol backup for longer stretches — a flexible option if your itinerary goes beyond the main charging network.

Explore PHEV rentals

Charging is flexible by design — pick whichever public network or station suits your route, and take advantage of free overnight charging offered by many Icelandic hotels and guesthouses.

Iceland has committed to cutting national emissions by 55% by 2030, and Hertz Iceland is renewing its fleet in step with that shift — new vehicles added going forward will increasingly be electric or plug-in hybrid models.

Essential Tips for Renting & Driving in Iceland

Whether it’s your first time in Iceland or you’re a returning traveler, Hertz Iceland makes driving easy and safe. See our Driving in Iceland guide for expert advice on road conditions, speed limits, and tips for year-round travel.

Choosing the right rental car in Iceland
Hertz Iceland coverage, safety and local support
FAQ and local advice for renting a car in Iceland
Best Iceland self-drive travel tips

Explore Iceland: Trending Travel Guides & Tips

Get inspired for an adventure! Dive into the blogs travelers love most right now — packed with local insights, road trip secrets, winter and summer advice, and iconic must-see routes. Discover real experiences, expert driving tips, and the latest trends that help you plan the perfect Iceland journey.

Car hire for Studlagil Canyon Iceland

Renting cars in Iceland: FAQs

  • Why choose Hertz Iceland for your car rental in Iceland?
    Founded in 1971, Hertz Iceland has been helping travelers explore Iceland safely and comfortably for more than 50 years, growing into one of the country’s largest and most trusted car rental companies with locations across the island. As a long-established local franchise of the global Hertz brand, the team combines deep, real-world knowledge of Icelandic roads, seasons, and regulations with international standards in fleet quality, safety, and service. Our award-winning staff have been recognized multiple times by the World Travel Awards as Iceland’s Leading Car Rental Company, reflecting decades of consistent, reliable service for both international visitors and locals. Whether you’re searching for car rental in Iceland, Iceland car rental, or a simple rent a car Iceland option, Hertz Iceland offers genuine local expertise backed by a world-renowned rental network you can depend on, with Summer 24/7 airport service and nationwide support.
    Learn more about Hertz Iceland
  • What types of rental cars are available at Hertz Iceland?
    Hertz Iceland offers a wide range of vehicles — 4×4 SUVs, campers, economy cars, compact models, vans, and luxury vehicles — for every type of car hire Iceland need. Each group is tailored to different travel needs and destinations across Iceland.
    Explore our fleet
  • Which vehicles are best for Iceland’s terrain and varying road conditions?
    Consider when and where you’re traveling, seasonal weather, F-road access, and group size before you book a car for your trip. A 4×4 SUV is the top choice for comfort and safety across all road and weather conditions. For guidance, read our tips on vehicle selection:
    Car rental tips for Iceland
  • What insurance and protection packages are offered for rental cars in Iceland?
    All Hertz Iceland rentals include mandatory Third-Party Liability (TPL) and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), so every rental car leaves the lot with essential protection in place. Extra options such as Zero Excess Coverage are available. Please note: water damage, off-road driving, and river crossings are not covered.
    See our insurance options
  • Is Hertz Iceland open for late night, early morning, and 24/7 rentals?
    Yes. Our Keflavík International Airport (KEF) arrival hall location operates 24/7 during the summer season for all scheduled arrivals and departures — ideal if you’re planning a car reservation around a late-night flight. In winter, our KEF arrival hall desk is open daily from 05:30 until 02:00 the following morning, covering almost all early-morning and late-night flights.
    Check KEF station hours
  • Can I book one-way car rentals or flexible drop-off locations?
    Yes, one-way vehicle hire is available with a variable fee. Use the search widget and select “Return vehicle to a different location” for a quote based on your itinerary.
  • What documents do I need for renting a car in Iceland?
    You’ll need a valid driver’s license, a credit card in your name, and a passport or national ID to complete your car booking. Age restrictions and additional info apply.
    Rental requirements
  • Are winter tires and equipment always provided for Icelandic road conditions?
    Yes. All Hertz Iceland cars rented in winter are equipped with certified winter tires, either studded or non-studded, to match Icelandic road and weather conditions and ensure safe driving. In Iceland, winter tires must have a legal minimum tread depth of 3 millimeters between November 1 and April 15, and Hertz Iceland fits its winter fleet with tires that meet or exceed this requirement for all rentals during the winter season. Whenever conditions and vehicle availability allow, cars are equipped with studded winter tires for extra grip on ice, while non-studded winter tires are used where appropriate — so with any Iceland rental car you book, you can rely on having proper winter tires without needing to request them separately.
  • What options are available for group travel and larger parties?
    Vans and minibuses are available for families and groups looking for vehicle booking beyond a standard car. Special driver licenses may be required for vehicles carrying more than nine passengers.
    See van & minibus rentals
  • What is included in the rental price, and how do rates vary in Iceland?
    Rental prices include your vehicle, VAT, and basic coverages — so the car rental rate you see is close to what you’ll pay. Rates are highest in summer (June–Aug) and lowest in winter (Nov–Mar, excluding holidays). Flash sales and special offers may be available.
  • What are Hertz Iceland’s payment, deposit, and fuel policies?
    Hertz Iceland offers two main payment options: “Pay Now” for a discounted prepaid rate, or “Pay Later” where you pay at pickup at the standard flexible rate — flexibility that makes it easy to book a car the way that suits your trip. No separate rental deposit is charged, but a valid credit card in the driver’s name is required at pickup as security for any unpaid extras, tolls, or potential fines. The standard fuel policy is full-to-full: your car is handed over with a full tank and should be returned full. To avoid additional refuelling and service fees, it is strongly recommended to refill the tank to full before drop-off; otherwise, Hertz Iceland will refuel the car and charge both the fuel and an extra service cost.
  • Can young drivers under 25 rent cars from Hertz Iceland?
    Yes, drivers aged 20 and up can hire a car in selected vehicle categories. Check restrictions by car type.
    Driver age requirements
  • What should I know about Iceland traffic laws and off-road driving restrictions?
    Off-road driving is strictly illegal in Iceland, and all drivers must stay on marked roads and official tracks at all times, even with a 4×4, to avoid heavy fines and serious damage to Iceland’s fragile nature. Headlights must be on at all times, day and night, seat belts are compulsory for every passenger, mobile phones may only be used with hands-free, and you must always respect local speed limits and warning signs, especially on gravel roads, single-lane bridges, and F-roads.
    Read more about Iceland traffic laws and regulations
  • How do I make a car reservation with Hertz Iceland?
    Making a car reservation is simple: select your pick-up location, dates, and vehicle category on hertz.is, then choose “Pay Now” or “Pay Later” to complete your car booking. A confirmation is sent instantly by email, and most bookings can be adjusted later if your plans change.
  • Does Hertz Iceland offer hybrid or electric vehicles for rent?
    Yes, a growing selection of hybrid and electric vehicles is available for travelers seeking a more eco-friendly rent a car Iceland option. These are best suited to shorter routes such as the Golden Circle and South Coast, where charging infrastructure is more reliable.
    Explore our fleet
  • How do I choose between a 2WD and 4WD rental car in Iceland?
    Choose a 2WD rental car if you’re sticking to paved roads like the Ring Road, Golden Circle, or South Coast. Choose 4WD if you’re traveling in autumn and winter (Sept–April), or heading to the Westfjords, or planning to drive any F-road or gravel route in summer, where extra traction and ground clearance matter.
    Explore our fleet
  • Can I cancel or modify my Hertz Iceland car rental booking?
    Most “Pay Later” bookings can be cancelled or modified free of charge up until pick-up, giving you flexibility if your itinerary changes. “Pay Now” prepaid rates may carry cancellation restrictions, so check your specific rate terms at the time of car booking.
  • What happens if my rental car breaks down or needs roadside assistance in Iceland?
    Every Hertz Iceland vehicle hire includes access to nationwide breakdown assistance and partner garages. The cost of towing is not covered by Hertz unless you opt for the roadside assistance service when picking up the car at the rental desk.
    See roadside assistance and coverage options If you experience an issue on the road, call the 24/7 emergency support number provided with your rental agreement, and the team will guide you through next steps wherever you are in Iceland.
  • Is damage from illegal driving, traffic violations, or river crossings covered?
    Damage caused by illegal driving, breaking traffic laws, river crossings, and similar circumstances is not covered under standard rental coverage.
    See full coverage details