Renting a Car in Jelgava

Jelgava (historically Mitau) is 42 km southwest of Riga — the former capital of the Duchy of Courland. The Baroque Jelgava Palace, designed by Rastrelli (who also designed the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg), is the largest Baroque building in the Baltic states.

Hertz has the main rental presence. Prices from €12/day. The city suits visitors wanting a quieter base near Riga, or travellers exploring the Zemgale plains and Rundāle Palace.

Car Rental Providers in Jelgava

  • Hertz

Compare all providers — including independent local operators — through DiscoverCars and RentalCars.com to find the best rate for your dates.

Where to Pick Up Your Car in Jelgava

Main pickup location: Jelgava city centre — near Jelgava Palace on Lielā iela. Additional collection points may be available at hotels and railway stations — check your provider's website for the full list of Jelgava locations.

What Documents Do You Need?

  • Valid driving licence — held for at least 1 year.
  • Passport or national identity card.
  • Credit card in the primary driver's name for the security deposit.
  • Non-EU licence holders may need an International Driving Permit if the licence is not in Latin script.

Young Driver Rules in Latvia

Drivers aged 18–24 can rent from most providers but typically pay a Young Driver Surcharge of €8–€20/day. Minimum age is usually 18, with some providers requiring 21 for premium categories.

Tips for Renting in Jelgava

  • Rundāle is one of Latvia's top attractions — rarely crowded.
  • The A8 to Riga has no tolls.
  • Jelgava is cheaper for accommodation than Riga — good base for day trips.
  • Hertz typically weekdays only; confirm weekend hours.
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Driving in Latvia

Latvia uses right-hand traffic. Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on rural roads, 110 km/h on motorways. Blood alcohol limit: 0.05%. Headlights on at all times. Winter tyres compulsory Dec–Mar. Currency: Euro (€).

Nearby Destinations Worth Driving To

  • Rundāle Palace — 75 km, 1 hr. Latvia's finest Baroque palace — formal gardens and lavish interiors.
  • Riga — 42 km, 40 min. Latvia's capital via the A8.
  • Jūrmala — 40 km, 35 min. Latvia's main beach resort on the Gulf of Riga.
  • Bauska — 65 km, 55 min. Historic town with a riverside castle ruin at the confluence of two rivers.

For more planning help, read our car rental tips guide and find out which fees to watch for when collecting your vehicle.