Is TPL included in my Albania car rental?

Yes—TPL is mandatory and included so the car can be driven legally. It covers third-party damage/injury, not your rental car.

Do I still need CDW/LDW?

Recommended. CDW/LDW covers damage/theft of the rental car and can reduce your excess exposure.

Can I drive to neighboring countries?

Only with written permission, proper documentation, and usually a paid Green Card. Some vehicles are restricted and longer rentals (e.g., 30 days) may be required. Ask at booking.

Most rentals require a pre-authorization deposit. The amount depends on vehicle class and chosen protection.

What if a third party makes a claim against me?

Notify the rental company immediately and provide a police report and evidence. TPL handles third-party claims up to policy limits.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

EU/EEA licenses are generally accepted. Drivers from other countries may need an IDP. Check your country’s rules before travel.

TPL Insurance for Car Rentals in Albania: A Complete Guide

Planning to rent a car in Albania? This guide explains what TPL (Third-Party Liability) insurance is, what it covers, how it differs from CDW/LDW, the basics of cross-border travel, and exactly what to do in case of an accident.

What is TPL?

TPL (Third-Party Liability) is the mandatory motor insurance that covers damage or injury you cause to other people, vehicles, or property while driving the rental car. In Albania, TPL is legally required for all vehicles. Car rental companies include TPL so the car can be driven on public roads.

Good to know: TPL protects third parties. It does not cover damage to the rental car you are driving. For that, you need collision/theft protections (see below).

What TPL covers (and what it doesn’t)

Typically covered by TPL

Injury to other road users (medical costs, legal liability)
Damage to third-party vehicles or property caused by you
Legal defense/claims handling for third-party losses

Not covered by TPL

Damage to the rental car you’re driving
Theft of the rental car or your belongings
Glass, tyres, underbody or interior damage (unless specified in add-ons)
Driving off-road, under the influence, or other prohibited uses

Limits & proof: TPL coverage limits are defined by the policy held by the rental company and compliant with Albanian law. You can always request to see the policy certificate and limits before signing.

Excess, deposit & add-ons (CDW/LDW/TP)

Most rental bookings include a security deposit and an excess (the maximum you pay if the car is damaged or stolen). TPL does not remove the excess—because TPL doesn’t cover your car. To reduce your liability, consider the common add-ons below:

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): reduces the amount you pay if the rental car is damaged in a collision.
LDW (Loss Damage Waiver): usually CDW + theft protection (TP).
Glass/Tyre/Underbody cover: optional add-ons that close common gaps.
Full protection / excess waiver: reduces excess to a lower amount or zero (terms apply).

Cross-border driving & Green Card

If you plan to drive outside Albania (e.g., to Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia or Kosovo), you usually need an International Motor Insurance Card (Green Card) issued for the specific rental vehicle.

Extra fee: Green Card is typically charged separately and issued on request.
Vehicle restrictions: Some fleets allow cross-border only on specific vehicles and may require advance approval.
Minimum rental: For certain cross-border requests, some providers require longer rentals (e.g., 30 days) and a separate insurance cost paid by the driver. Always confirm at booking.
Not automatic: Cross-border is never assumed—get written permission and documents before you go.

Tip: Keep printed and digital copies of the Green Card and rental agreement at all times when crossing borders.

Documents you must carry

Valid driver’s license (plus International Driving Permit if required for your license origin)
Passport or national ID (as applicable)
Rental agreement
TPL insurance certificate / proof of insurance
Green Card (only for cross-border trips)
Emergency contact & assistance numbers from your rental company

What to do after an accident (step-by-step)

Check safety first. Move to a safe spot and call emergency services if needed (112 in Albania).
Call your rental company immediately and follow their instructions.
Do not admit fault at the scene. Exchange details, note number plates and insurance info.
Police report. Request assistance to obtain an official police/incident report when required by the policy.
Document everything: photos/video of all vehicles, road position, damages and injuries.
Collect witness details (names, phone numbers).
Submit all documents to the rental company/insurer within the time limit stated in your agreement.

FAQ

Is TPL included in my Albania car rental?: Yes—TPL is mandatory and included so the car can be driven legally. It covers third-party damage/injury, not your rental car.
Do I still need CDW/LDW?: Recommended. CDW/LDW covers damage/theft of the rental car and can reduce your excess exposure.
Can I drive to neighboring countries?: Only with written permission, proper documentation, and (usually) a paid Green Card. Some vehicles are restricted and longer rentals (e.g., 30 days) may be required for cross-border. Ask at booking.
Is there a deposit?: Most rentals require a pre-authorization deposit. The amount depends on vehicle class and chosen protection.
What if a third party makes a claim against me?: Notify the rental company immediately and provide the police report and evidence. TPL handles third-party claims up to policy limits.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?: EU/EEA licenses are generally accepted. Drivers from other countries may need an IDP. Check your country’s rules before travel.