This blog post details Sorin Luca experience (ITC Member) renting a car and driving himself through southern Iraq. While renting in Kurdistan may be smoother, here’s what you need to know for driving and renting a car in Baghdad and the south:

Rental Company

I used Hertz in Baghdad. While Europcar appears more common online, Hertz allows you to keep your passport (crucial for checkpoints).

Needed Documents

• A Romanian national driving permit was sufficient, no International Driving Permit (IDP) needed. Check with your embassy for your nationality.
• Ensure multiple driver authorizations are included if needed.
• Double-check car details and authorization papers for accuracy.

Price and Insurance

• Hertz may be slightly pricier than online listings for Europcar, but the passport benefit is valuable.
• Full insurance is recommended and eliminates the security deposit. Payments are in cash USD.

Checkpoints

• Expect frequent checkpoints, especially around Najaf and Fallujah.
• Passports and car documents are usually checked, sometimes with photos taken.
• Patience is key – expect delays (1 minute to 1 hour) and occasional higher-rank intervention.
• Night crossings might be slightly easier.
• Important: Certain nationalities may face restrictions in specific areas. [ Updated March 2024 ]

Driving

• Be prepared for chaotic driving with few traffic rules followed.
• Maintain a balance between caution and assertiveness.
• Yield the right of way to vehicles entering roundabouts (opposite of European rules).
• Use your right mirror frequently as overtaking occurs on both sides.
• Road conditions are the biggest hazard, with potholes, bumps, and unmarked lanes.
• Taxis can be helpful guides – follow their lead to avoid road hazards.
• Speed limits seem unenforced in the south, but adjust speed for road conditions.
• Fuel is around 450 Iraqi dinars (IQD) per liter. Full octane (650 IQD) may not be necessary.
• Beware of pumps without automatic shut-off at full tanks.

This information is specific to Sorin Luca experience in southern Iraq. It is not necessarily will be the same with you, but at least this blog will help to give you a better understanding.