Picking Up Your Car

Bring the right documents

• your physical driver's licence, and every additional driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit or certified English translation, if your licence isn't in English
• a card in the main driver's name for payment and the bond, usually a credit card, as not every rental company accepts debit cards
• your booking confirmation, printed or on your phone
• your passport or other ID
• a copy of your travel or excess insurance policy, if you have one, so you don't pay for cover you already have

See required documents for pick-up.

Arriving at the airport

Add your flight number to your booking so the rental company knows when you land. After collecting your bags, follow the signs to the rental desks. Off-airport branches may need a shuttle. At the counter, ask about fuel type, the nearest service station and how tolls are charged. See airport pick-ups.

Running late? Contact the rental company as soon as you can, using the number on your confirmation. If you miss your pick-up time without telling it, it may treat you as a no-show and give the car to someone else. See late pick-ups and delayed flights.

What you'll pay at the counter

You usually pay the rental balance at pick-up, and the rental company places a security bond on your card. The bond amount varies by rental company, location and car, so make sure you have enough available credit. You may also be offered cover options, and you may pay for extras, additional drivers, a young driver fee or a one-way fee. Read the rental agreement before you sign and ask about anything unclear. See charges at pick-up.

Check the car before you leave

Compare the car with the Vehicle Condition Report. Check the wheels, windscreen and windows, and walk around the car for dents. Ask staff to add any unlisted damage to the report, and take photos. If the car isn't what you expected, check the seats, luggage space, transmission and extras suit your trip before you drive away. See vehicle inspection and different vehicle than expected.

All Picking Up Your Car guides

• Required documents for pick-up
• Airport pick-ups
• Late pick-ups and delayed flights
• Charges at pick-up
• Security bond
• Vehicle inspection
• Different vehicle than expected

Previous stage: Managing Your Booking. Next stage: During Your Trip. Part of the Car Hire Handbook. Can't find what you need? Search the handbook.