Car Rental at Macau International Airport (MFM)

Your US driver's license alone may not be sufficient. While some rental companies accept it, the International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended and often required. An IDP costs about $20 USD and can be obtained from AAA offices. Macau drives on the LEFT side of the road, and rental agencies will typically require both your US license AND IDP for verification.

Yes, this is a unique characteristic of Macau. Cars are right-hand drive (steering wheel on the right), yet traffic flows on the left side of the road—similar to Hong Kong and the UK. This takes adjustment, especially when overtaking and navigating narrow streets. First-time visitors should exercise extra caution at intersections and when changing lanes. Many rental cars come with dual-side mirrors to help with left-side driving.

Parking in Macau is EXTREMELY limited and costly, especially on the peninsula. Street parking in central areas costs MOP $2-8 per 15 minutes (about $0.25-1 USD). Public parking lots charge MOP $25-60 per hour ($3-7.50 USD). During peak hours (10am-8pm), expect to spend 30-45 minutes hunting for a spot in busy zones like Senado Square. Book accommodations with parking if you plan to rent a car.

Most rental companies in Macau charge a "young driver surcharge" for drivers aged 21-24, typically ranging from MOP $150-300 per day ($19-38 USD). Drivers under 21 generally cannot rent vehicles. If you're 25 or older, you'll avoid this surcharge entirely. This fee is often not included in advertised rates, so confirm before booking.

Yes, the Sai Van Bridge and other major bridges charge tolls. Rates are relatively low (MOP $10-30 per crossing, or about $1.25-3.75 USD). Most rental cars are equipped with an "Autopass" electronic toll device, and charges are added to your rental bill. Some older booths still accept cash (MOP or HKD). The Hanoi Bridge and other crossings typically cost MOP $30-50 for heavier vehicles.

From May to October, Macau experiences typhoons that can cause sudden flooding on low-lying roads, especially in the southern peninsula and Islands District. If a Typhoon Signal #8 or above is hoisted, driving becomes extremely dangerous—roads may close, and rental companies may prohibit vehicle collection/return. During rainy season, avoid low-lying areas like Rua de Madrid and keep emergency contact numbers for road assistance. Cancel or postpone non-essential trips during active typhoon warnings.