Reasons to DriveNow

  • Price Guarantee
  • Book Direct
  • Compare
  • No Hidden Fees
  • No Booking Fees
  • Trusted Since 2003
Reviews 887 • Excellent • 4.4
TrustPilot 4.5 stars

Compare and Save with Car Hire in the UK

Book UK car hire with DriveNow and we guarantee to find the lowest available rates on car rental in the UK.

DriveNow takes the hassle out of hiring a car in the UK by bringing together the best rates published by British car rental providers so you can instantly compare prices and vehicles on a single web page. Given the post covid squeeze on car availability finding a good deal has become that much more difficult with less vehicles driving up rental pricing. We have partnered with leading rental brands including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz and SIXT to publish the latest and lowest UK car hire pricing all on the one website.

With DriveNow there are never booking, admin or any other fees and in many instances there's no need to provide credit card details when making your booking. Simply book your car and pay on collecting your vehicle. By booking in advance not only do you have the peace of mind of a confirmed booking, you will also secure a cheaper rate than leaving it to the last minute and perhaps best of all it costs you nothing to do so.

Search, compare and save on UK car rental locations right across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Why use DriveNow to Book your Car Hire in the UK?

  • Price - we always check for the cheapest available rental rates
  • Simplicity - Quick and Easy rental rate comparisons
  • Free Service - who likes fees? - we charge no booking or admin fees
  • Trusted Suppliers - we only work with the leading UK Car hire suppliers
  • No Credit Card details required on making a booking (with most suppliers)
  • Immediate booking confirmation
  • Drive-away prices include all taxes and levies (excludes young driver surcharge)
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Trust and Experience - DriveNow has been comparing the best rental deals since 2003

At DriveNow we pride ourselves in customer service and understand that it's not just about finding the best online deal. Our reservations team are just a phone call away to help and answer any questions. We actively seek your feedback to continuously improve the level of service and support we deliver.

The secret to finding the cheapest UK best Car Hire deals?

The secret to finding the best UK car hire deals is surprisingly simple .... Book Early.

The earlier you book the cheaper the rate. Hiring a car is just like buying an airline ticket. If you book during peak periods such as school holidays, Christmas or Easter, the prices will be higher. June through to September is also a popular time to travel to the UK when demand is high. Planning and booking ahead will lock you in with a better price. Pricing will also vary between locations and depend on the type of car you want to rent and its availability. With no payment required until collection, it doesn't cost you a cent to book early but may end up saving you more than a few dollars.

Frequently asked questions on car rental in the UK

How old must I be to rent a car in the UK?

The majority of car rental companies require drivers to be over 25 and under 70 in order to hire a car. However some do provide for younger drivers in the 21-25 age bracket, the catch being a surcharge fee and restrictions on the type and size of rental cars available. There are some rental branches that apply this young driver fee to 26 and younger. As these fees and restrictions vary between rental companies we suggest checking the total price breakdown to determine the costs associated with the younger driver. If in doubt contact our Reservations team.

What driving license do I require to rent a car in the UK?

You can rent a car using your own driving license as long as it is in English. Non-English language licenses should be supported by an international Driving Permit.

Driving in the UK

Driving in the UK is on the left and distance and speed are measured in miles. Petrol is delivered in litres and petrol stations will accept all major credit cards. Speed limits are uniform across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales with Motorways limited to 70mph (113kph), major highways 60mph and urban traffic at 30mph or in some instances 20mph. Speed Cameras operate throughout the UK and the hirer will be liable for any infringements incurred during their hiring period.

Do rental cars in the UK come with automatic or manual transmission?

The majority of UK Car Rentals are manual transmission. It is possible to hire automatic vehicles though these attract a higher rental rate.

What payment options are available when hiring a car in the UK

You will be required to pay for your vehicle on pick up using a credit card. Excess Insurance reduction and other options can also be purchased when picking up your vehicle.

What insurance options when hiring a car in the UK?

All rental cars are supplied fully insured in the UK, however the hirer, you, will be liable for an initial amount in the event of an accident or damage. The full amount of the excess is deducated from your credit card in the event of damage or an accident. Once repairs have been made any amount of that excee fee not required to meet the repair costs is credited back to your credit card. You can reduce your liability by taking out a Collison Damage Waiver and paying a daily fee direct to the rental company.

Many travel insurance policies will include car excess reduction options, alternatively for Australian license holders DriveNow offers pre-purchased rental vehicle insurance for the UK through our partner Hiccup Insurance who specialise in car rental insurance and whose rates are often cheaper than those offered by the rental companies. Learn more about car hire insurance options. Whichever option you elect to take remember that in the event of an accident secure copies of all documentation, police reports and if possible take photos.

Do I need to wear a seatbelt in the UK?

Yes, the wearing of seatbelts is mandatory in the UK.

Do I require a Child Booster or Baby Seat?

Any child under the age of 12 or less than 135cm high is required to use a Child Booster seat. These can be hired as an optional extra from the rental company, please include in your initial car rental booking.

Mobile Phones and Sat-Nav Guidance

You can only use a hands free phone whilst driving. Fixed penalty notices apply. Satellite Navigation guidance systems can be hired as an optional extra, however many newer rental vehicles in the UK come with GPS navigation as standard. For those looking for cruise control this option is less commonly found in UK vehicles.