Driving in Malta: Rules, Roads and Practical Tips

Driving can be useful for reaching beaches, rural areas and smaller villages in Malta and Gozo. It can also be demanding: roads are busy, lanes can be narrow and parking is limited in several popular areas.

If you plan to hire a vehicle, read our renting a car in Malta guide before booking.

Which side of the road does Malta drive on?

Traffic drives on the left. The driver sits on the right-hand side in most locally registered cars, and vehicles normally pass on the right.

Roundabouts are approached and used clockwise. Follow lane markings and signs, signal clearly when leaving and do not assume that another driver will give way simply because you have signalled.

Essential rules

Transport Malta states that everyone travelling in a motor vehicle, other than specified exemptions, must wear a seat belt. Drivers also need a valid licence for the vehicle category, while the vehicle must be insured, licensed and roadworthy.

Keep these basics in mind:

• Obey the posted speed limit; limits can change quickly between main roads and residential streets.
• Do not hold or use a phone while driving.
• Never drive after drinking alcohol or taking anything that impairs you.
• Give pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists extra space.
• Use an appropriate child restraint for the child's size and follow its fitting instructions.
• Carry your driving licence and the documents required by the rental company. Check Transport Malta's driving licence guidance if your licence was issued abroad.

The official Malta Road Code is the best reference for signs, road markings and junction rules.

What are Malta's roads like?

Main roads can have several lanes and heavy traffic, while village centres may contain very narrow streets, sharp corners and limited visibility. Road surfaces and lane markings can vary.

Allow more time than the distance suggests. A short journey can take considerably longer during weekday commuting hours, summer weekends, local feasts or roadworks.

Do not blindly follow a navigation app into a narrow road. If a street looks unsuitable for the vehicle, stop somewhere legal and reassess the route.

Parking

Only park where both the road markings and signs allow it. A space that appears empty may be reserved for residents, Blue Badge holders, loading, electric-vehicle charging or a specific vehicle.

Our parking in Malta guide explains common bay colours and restrictions. If travelling to the capital, also check Valletta parking and CVA charges.

Never obstruct:

• A garage or driveway
• A bus stop
• A pedestrian crossing
• A junction or corner
• An accessible parking bay
• A loading or reserved bay

Temporary tow-zone notices are common around roadworks, feasts and events. Check signs again every time you leave the vehicle, even if other cars are parked nearby.

Driving a rental car

Inspect the car before leaving the rental location and photograph every side, the wheels, fuel gauge and mileage. Confirm the fuel policy, insurance excess, deposit and accident procedure in writing.

Ask how the operator handles traffic fines, toll-like charges and the Valletta CVA system. These charges may reach the rental company after your trip, and the contract may permit an additional administration fee.

Driving in Gozo

The same national road rules apply in Gozo. Roads are generally quieter, but village streets and rural lanes can still be narrow. Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, agricultural vehicles and buses, particularly around blind bends.

If taking a vehicle across, our Gozo Channel ferry guide explains the Ċirkewwa–Mġarr crossing.

Is a car necessary?

Not always. A car is most useful when your itinerary includes several remote places or you are travelling with equipment or young children. For Valletta, Sliema and other well-connected areas, buses, ferries and taxis can be simpler than finding parking.

Compare the alternatives in our public transport in Malta guide and taxis in Malta guide.

Before driving, confirm that your licence is valid in Malta using our driving licences in Malta guide.

Browse all our Transport guides.