Confused About Car Rental in India? This Guide Answers Everything

Renting a car in India may be a bit difficult, particularly when it is your first time. There are much to work out between documents, deposits, insurance, and policies. This guide provides answers to the most frequently asked questions using simple language enabling you to rent with certainty.

Part 1: Basic Eligibility and Documents

Is it possible to hire a car in India without a credit card?

Yes, the majority of car rental companies in India receive debit cards, UPI, net banking, and even cash as a payment. Some of the providers, however, might still insist on a credit card with regard to the security deposit. You should always call your rental company beforehand to ensure that you show up.

What documents do one need to rent a car in India?

To drive, you will generally require a valid driving licence, a photo identification issued by the government like an Aadhaar card, passport or voter ID and a proof of address. A second ID may also be requested by other companies to provide further confirmation. In the case of self-drive rentals, ensure that your licence has the type of vehicle you intend to drive.

Is driving licence localized enough to rent a car in India?

Yes, a driving licence issued by any of the Regional Transport offices is accepted nationally. In case you are a foreign national you will require an International Driving Permit and your home country licence. Ensure that your licence is not out of date when renting.

How old must one be to rent a car in India?

The legal age is 21 years on average. Other rental firms can also establish the age limit of 23 or 25 years according to their policies. You also need to have a valid driving licence of one year before renting a self drive car.

Is it possible to rent a self drive car in India?

Yes, self-drive car rental in India is possible amongst foreign tourists. They must have a valid passport, visa, and International Driving Permit and their home country driving licence. There might be some extra requirements in some states, and it is prudent to enquire beforehand.

Part 2: Payments, Deposits and Charges

What is the rationale behind security deposit during car rentals?

Security deposit is received as a guarantee in case of any form of damage, driving fines, fuel deficit or excess wear incurred during the tenure of the rental. This is commonplace in the industry and is refundable in full provided the car is returned in good condition with no dues outstanding.

The time taken to have the security deposit refunded?

The refund made by most of the rental companies is done between 5 and 7 working days after the car has been returned and inspected. In case of no damages or unpaid charges, the sum is returned to the source of your payment. It can also take 14 days depending on the internal process and bank schedule of some companies.

Does it include fuel charges in car rentals?

No, gas fee is not normally added to rental price. You are given a specific amount of fuel in the car and are supposed to give it back at the same level. When you pay back less fuel, the company will pay you the difference, which is generally higher than the pump price.

What will become of you when you drive past the kilometer mark?

When your rental plan is determined by a set number of kilometres and you exceed it, then you pay extra amount on each extra kilometre travelled. Your rental agreement refers to the per-kilometre rate. Unlimited kilometre plan is a good idea to look into in case you are planning a long trip since it will save you the surprise costs.

Are there any uncovered fees in car rental in India?

There are no hidden costs associated with reputable rental companies but one should examine the rental agreement thoroughly before signing. Other fees that are often charged are fuel deficit fees, late drop charges, cleaning charges, extra driver charges, and damage or traffic offence charges. A clear break down of all the charges should always be sought before one goes ahead to confirm his or her booking.

Part 3: Booking, Cancellation and Changes

Is it possible to cancel a car rental reservation in India?

Yes, the majority of car rental businesses permit cancellations. The amount of refund is based on how much time you cancel earlier before the pick up time. Early cancellations usually get a full or partial refund, whereas last minute cancellations may not get refunded at all.

What is the cancelation policy of car rentals?

Company policies vary on cancelation. One of the most common structures is a full refund in case of cancellation with 48 hours or more in advance, a partial refund in case of cancellation with 24 48 hours and no refund in case of cancellation with a few hours before the pickup time. When making a booking always verify the particular policy.

Is it possible to extend your period of rental once you have made a booking?

Yes, the majority of companies give you an opportunity to renew your rental. You are supposed to notify the rental company early enough. Extensions depend on the availability of the vehicle and you will pay an extra amount to the extra days at the relevant rate. Do not expect to automatically have an extension without checking it with the company.

Is it possible to adjust the location of pickup or drop?

Alteration of pickup or drop point can be done but it will depend on availability and can impose extra fees particularly in one-way rentals. Whether or not the change can be accommodated can only be asked to the rental company itself before your rental starts.

Part 4: Rules and Restrictions of Usage

Will someone steal your rental car in India?

In most cases, the individual who signed and registered the rental contract is the only one who can drive the car. There are other companies that provide an extra driver at a fee. Any insurance cover will become invalid and you will be personally liable to any damages in the event that an unauthorised person is allowed to drive.

Is it possible to drive a rented car to a different city or state?

This is based on the policy of the rental company. There are numerous companies that permit inter-city travel and some might need an extra permit or charge a fee to enter a different state. You should always notify the rental firm of your traveling schedule and seek confirmation in writing in case you need it.

Can rental cars be used on highways and hill stations?

Yes, the rented cars usually can be used in national highways and in going to hill stations. Nevertheless, some of the hill roads can be limited by climatic conditions or seasonal road blockage. Enquire with the rental company and the local transport authorities on any specific restrictions that may apply to your destination.

Is it possible to use a rental car commercially?

No. Renting cars is not corporate. Commercial purposes like transportation of goods, operation of a taxi service or any other paid carriage of passengers are strictly forbidden and against the rental agreement.

Part 5: Breakdowns, Damage and Emergencies

What would have happened in case your rental car malfunctions in the middle of your trip?

Immediately, you are supposed to call the customer support number of the rental company. The majority of businesses offer 24/7 roadside services. Do not make the car repairs yourself without notifying the company because you may not have the reimbursement and it might create difficulties in the claim process.

What about when you break a rental car?

Inform the rental company immediately. Do not try to hide the damage or get it repaired privately. Get shots of the damage at different angles. Depending on your insurance cover, the cost can either be fully or partially covered. You will take the deductible or any other damages that are not covered by the insurance policy.

What will happen in case you lose the car keys?

The misplacement of the keys to the car is usually considered as renter negligence. The replacement cost, such as locksmith fees and a new key, is normally billed to the renter. Do not leave keys unattended and store them in a safe place.

Who is the one to blame when the rental vehicle is stolen?

In case of theft of the car and you have a comprehensive insurance covering theft, the insurance takes up the claim. But when the theft was as a result of your negligence like leaving the keys in the car or leaving the parking lot in an insecure place, you can be completely or partially responsible. Always lock up the given security features and leave the parking.

Part 6: Traffic, Fines, and Insurance

What will happen when you receive a traffic challan in a rental car?

The challan is associated with registration number of the vehicle and it can initially be sent to the rental company. The company is however at liberty to charge you as the renter the amount of the fine. You can have it deducted out of your security deposit or have it billed to you separately. Your role is to observe all the road regulations when driving a rented vehicle.

Do Indian rental cars have insurance?

There is basic third-party insurance which is mandatory by law and is part of all the car rentals in India. But it is possible that you have extensive insurance which will cover the damage to the rental car itself. Before picking up the car, it is always essential to ensure that you know the kind of insurance that is covered.

What is the insurance of rental cars?

In India, rental cars usually have third-party liability insurance that is an insurance against damages or injury to others. Extensive insurance includes the damage of the rental car itself. Other companies also have add-ons such as zero-depreciation cover or personal accident insurance to provide them with extra protection.

Part 7: Return Policies

What would you do in case you make late payments on the hire?

The late charges are given to late returns, and this is normally determined on hourly or per-day basis. Your rental agreement states the rate to be applied. In the event of delay, do not forget to tell the rental company beforehand to prevent misunderstanding or the increase of penalty.

Is there expiry period of late return?

Other rental firms have a grace period of 30 to 60 minutes after which late fees are imposed. This depends on the company, thus it is always wise to check on the grace period policy when booking the car or when collecting the car.

What would become of you when you give back the car before time?

Most cases do not allow a refund in case the car is returned prior to the agreed date of end. There are also companies that would charge an early returns fee. Always read the early return policy and then decide whether to cut your trip short or not.

Part 8: What To Check Before You Drive

What are the things that you should examine prior to renting a car?

Before moving away, examine the car carefully to see whether it has any dents, scratches or damages. Ensure that you have all the papers in the car such as the RC book, insurance paper and PUC certificate. Check the lights, AC, brakes, and tyres. Record photos or video of the condition of the car and ensure that any damage that exists is recorded on the handover form and then you sign it.

Are there FASTag rental cars in India?

In India, most of the current rental cars have a FASTag to facilitate easy payment of tolls in highways. But you need to verify this with a rental company prior to traveling. In the event that the car has a FASTag, you can pay the tolls charged out of a pre-loaded wallet or charged out of your pocket at the end of the rental.

Do they wash and sanitize rental cars prior to delivery?

Trustworthy rental firms have cleaning and sanitization of cars between rentals. Standards are however subject to change. In case of hygiene issue, then it is alright to question the company on how they clean their vehicles and then accept the vehicle.

A Notice on hiring a Self-Drive Car

Self-drive rentals are excellent when you have your own plans to go somewhere by road or you are required to use a car on your own conditions. One of the sites that should be considered by people when renting a car in India is Rentrip. We provide clear-cut prices, the well-maintained fleet, and the possibility of flexible pickup in the various cities, and it is easier to plan your trip without any last minute changes.

Final Thought

Better than nothing is a bit of preparation when hiring a car in India. Always read the rental agreement, thoroughly inspect the vehicle before you drive and save the emergency number of the rental company on your phone. Renting a car can be an easy and pleasant experience with the appropriate information.