If you are planning to rent a car in Oman, the quickest way to spoil the first hour of your trip is to arrive at the rental counter with the wrong paperwork. Companies differ in what they accept, but most ask for the same handful of documents. This guide explains what they are, why each one matters and how to check your own before you travel.
The short list
- A valid driving licence (the original card, not a photocopy or a photo on your phone)
- An International Driving Permit if your licence needs one or the company asks for it
- Your passport or, for residents, your Omani resident card
- A credit card in the driver’s name for the security deposit
- Your booking confirmation
Requirements change from one company and one car category to another, so treat this as a checklist to compare with your own booking, not as a rule that applies everywhere.
1. Your driving licence
Bring the original licence. Rental companies generally do not accept photocopies, digital licences or learner’s permits, and many want to see that you have held your licence for some time, often at least a year.
Whether you also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) depends on where your licence was issued and on the company’s own rules. Some companies ask every visitor for one, while others accept licences from certain countries as they are. It matters most when your licence is not written in Arabic or English. An IDP is normally a translation of your licence, so you still need to show the original next to it. Ask the rental company which licences it accepts before you book, and check the current guidance of the Royal Oman Police if you are unsure.
2. Passport or resident card
Visitors should bring their passport and residents their resident card. The company uses it to confirm who you are, so carry the original rather than a picture of it.
3. A credit card in your name
Almost every company takes a refundable security deposit when you collect the car, and most prefer a credit card in the main driver’s name. Debit cards and cards in someone else’s name are often refused. The amount depends on the company and the car, so ask for it in advance and make sure your card limit covers it on top of your other travel spending. When you return the car in the same condition, the deposit is released, although how fast it shows up on your card depends on your bank.
On tijara.om you pay only a small share of the price online to confirm the booking. The rest of the rental, including the deposit, is settled directly with the rental company when you collect the car, so read the deposit terms on the car page before you book.
4. Minimum age and driving experience
The most common minimum age is 21, usually with a licence held for at least twelve months. Some companies and some car categories, such as large 4x4s or sports cars, ask for 23 or 25, and younger drivers may pay an extra charge. Some companies also set an upper age limit. If you are close to either limit, confirm before you pay.
5. Your booking confirmation and a contact number
Keep the confirmation on your phone and save the rental company’s phone or WhatsApp number. If your flight is delayed or you need to change the pickup time, a quick message to the company stops you being treated as a no-show.
Checklist for the day you collect the car
- Original licence, and an International Driving Permit if needed
- Passport or resident card
- Credit card in the driver’s name with enough limit for the deposit
- Booking confirmation
- Photos or a short video of the car before you drive away, including the fuel level and the mileage
That last step takes two minutes and protects you if the company later questions a scratch.
Tips for a smooth pickup
- Arrive with enough time, especially at the airport, because the paperwork and the car check take a while.
- Ask about the fuel policy and whether the rental includes unlimited mileage.
- Check what the insurance covers and what you would pay if the car is damaged.
- Confirm where you may drive, for example whether the car can use unpaved roads or cross the border.
Common mistakes to avoid
- An expired licence or card: check the dates well before you travel.
- A second driver without papers: every driver must be registered and show their own documents.
- Assuming a debit card is enough: ask the company first.
- Skipping the contract terms: the contract states where you may drive and what the insurance covers.
Ready to compare cars?
Once your documents are in order, you can browse rental cars from local companies on tijara.om, compare prices and conditions in advance, and book online.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Oman?
It depends on the country that issued your licence and on the rental company. Some companies ask every visitor for one, others accept certain licences without it. Ask the company before you book, and carry your original licence in any case.
Can I rent a car in Oman with a debit card?
Most companies require a credit card in the driver's name for the deposit, and many refuse debit cards. Check with the company before you travel.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Oman?
It is commonly 21 with at least a year of driving experience, but some companies and car types require 23 or 25.
Can I show my driving licence on my phone?
Usually not. Rental companies generally want the original physical licence.