Late and Early Returns

Each rental company has its own policy on late and early returns, so read its terms and conditions and your rental agreement. Returning a car late breaches the rental agreement, almost always brings extra charges, and can affect the next hire of that car.

Late returns

If you return the car after your booked return time, expect to be charged for an extra day. Admin fees or out-of-hours return fees may also apply. When you choose your return date and time, allow enough time to get the car back to the branch.

If you need more time, or know you'll be late, contact the rental company as soon as possible. Ask what extra charges will apply, and let it tell the branch your new arrival time. It is best to call the branch you are returning the car to. Its contact details are on your DriveNow booking confirmation.

Early returns

Returning a car early works much the same way. Contact the branch to arrange the new return date and time, and it will check whether a refund or an extra charge applies. Policies vary between rental companies. In general, any change to a car hire booking updates the total rental cost to the current rental rate if that is higher. Rental companies don't usually refund unused days.

For the detailed process, see the terms and conditions listed on your booking confirmation.

Next steps

• Unexpected additional charges: other charges that can apply after you return the car
• Petrol: refuelling before you return the car

Part of Returning Your Car in the Car Hire Handbook.