Car Rental at Split Airport: Complete Guide 2026

How pickup works at Split Airport

Most smaller rental companies at Split Airport — including Motion Rent — operate a meet-and-greet model rather than a traditional counter inside the terminal. This means a representative meets you at an agreed point (usually just outside arrivals) after your flight lands.

When you book with Motion Rent, the exact pickup location and contact details are sent in the confirmation. Share your flight number when booking so the handover can be adjusted around delays automatically.

Documents you need at pickup

• Driving licence — valid in the issuing country. EU licences are accepted directly. Non-EU licences (including UK post-Brexit) may require an International Driving Permit depending on the country of issue.
• Passport or national ID — the name must match the booking.
• Payment card — required for the rental charge and security deposit. Debit cards are accepted by some suppliers; confirm when booking.

Children under 12 must use an approved child seat by Croatian law. Book one in advance — seats may not be available at short notice in peak season.

Security deposit

A deposit is pre-authorised on your card at pickup, not immediately charged. The amount depends on the vehicle category and protection package chosen. With standard CDW, deposits for a compact car typically range from €200 to €400. Upgrading to full kasko protection can reduce or eliminate the deposit.

The hold is released after the vehicle is returned undamaged, usually within 5 to 10 business days depending on your bank.

Insurance: what is and is not included

Every rental includes basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP) with an excess. The excess is the amount you are liable for in the event of damage or theft — typically €500–€1500 for standard vehicles.

Optional extras that reduce or eliminate the excess:

• Premium kasko (no excess) — covers damage including glass, tyres and underside. Recommended for peace of mind, especially on island or gravel roads.
• Standard CDW reduction — reduces but does not eliminate the excess.

Note: CDW does not cover single-car accidents on unpaved roads in some policies. Check the rental agreement before driving on unmarked tracks.

What to check before driving away

Walk around the car with the representative and confirm any existing scratches or marks are noted on the condition report before you sign. Take photos or a short video of all four sides, the wheels and the interior. This protects you if a dispute arises at return.

• Check tyre condition and pressure (spare or emergency kit location)
• Confirm fuel level matches the rental agreement
• Verify that the child seat is properly installed if one was requested
• Save the emergency contact number in your phone

Fuel policy

The standard policy with Motion Rent is full-to-full: the car is handed over with a full tank and should be returned with the same level. Return the car with less fuel and a refuelling fee will apply — typically well above pump price. Fill up at a petrol station near the airport before returning.

Returning the car

Return time is confirmed in the rental agreement. Out-of-hours return is possible at Split Airport by prior arrangement — confirm with Motion Rent when booking if your flight departs early or late. A final inspection is carried out at return and the deposit hold is released after the vehicle passes.