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The IHateTaxis.com Car Rental FAQ

We receive several questions regarding our car rental search and booking tool, so here are some frequently answered questions.

What do I need for pick-up of my car?

Make sure to bring along your voucher on arrival at the car rental counter. Need another copy of your voucher?

What will I need to present to the car rental agent?

In addition to your voucher, you will need your driver's licence and a major credit card. If you do not have a credit card then there may be an option of a deposit with the agent.

What if I wish to add additional drivers?

Inquire with the car rental agent. Some will charge a daily rate for each additional driver, some will charge a once-only fee, and some allow additional drivers at no extra fees.

Is there a surcharge for younger drivers?

This varies on the location, but generally those 25 and under will incur additional fees for rentals. This will be discussed by the rental agent. You can specify the age of the driver in the booking form to avoid any surprises.

Can I book a GPS, baby seat, etc?

You can request these when booking and they are paid for at the rental agency when you arrive. Some extras are charged a flat rate for your booking and some are a daily rate.

Is fuel included?

No. You are responsible for returning the car with the same amount of fuel that was provided to you (usually a full tank). If a car is returned with a lesser amount then you will be charged the price of fuel to full the tank (which usually is greater than the market price). Some agencies offer the option of purchasing a full tank of fuel at the beginning of your rental and then you do not need to fill the tank when you return, but this added convenience is usually more expensive.

Can I take the car across an international border?

This varies between rental agencies. Make sure to read the rental conditions prior to booking your car to see what is and is not allowed and if there are any extra fees involved. If there is no mention of border crossings in the rental conditions then it is not allowed.

I wish to book a specific car model. What does "…or similar" mean?

Agents may or may not have a specific car available when booking, but offer a similar vehicle in the same class (e.g., compact). If you really are after a particular model then please contact the rental agency directly to confirm that model is available prior to making your booking.

I need to cancel, what is the cancellation policy?

The policy varies between car rental agencies, so please check your confirmation for details. Some agencies will allow no-shows without penalty and others insist on 2-7 days notice with a small administrative fee. Do you need to cancel or modify your rental?

Are there any mileage limits?

There are no limits on how far you can drive the car during your rental period unless otherwise stated.

Is there Breakdown Assistance?

Confirm with the rental agency upon arrival, but in almost all cases this is included.

What should I check before driving away?

Make sure to have all your documents from the rental agency, review any terms and conditions of the rental, including any restrictions. Make sure to look over the car for damages and note them on the rental agreement. Check to see all additional equipment requested is present and in working order.

What is the Excess or Deductible?

When a car is rented, CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), Theft and Third Party Liability is generally included in the car rental price. There is almost always an Excess (also known as Super CDW, Non Waiver or Deductible) on the CDW and Theft portions of the rental. This means that in the event of theft or damage to the rental vehicle, the renter must pay the first portion of the cost before the insurance covers the rest. The amount varies from country to country. You may be able to purchase an excess damage reduction from the agency to reduce your amount payable.

What is Collision Damage Insurance?

This means your liability for damage caused to the rental vehicle is relinquished if it is involved in a collision. The waiver is limited to a certain amount and often excludes glass (windows etc.), tires and any towing. The waiver usually carries an excess/deductible of a certain amount; this means that the renter will be liable for a certain amount. This amount will be frozen off your credit card on arrival.

What is the Glass/Tire Waiver?

This removes or reduces the renter's liability for damage to the windows or tyres. These are not covered in the Collision Damage Insurance. It is usually charged at daily fee.

What is the Personal Accident Insurance?

PAI insures the renter for the duration of the rental in the event of their accidental death or bodily injury (coverage is 24 hours a day, in or out of the car). The renter's passengers are also covered while entering, occupying or exiting the vehicle. This insurance is possibly sold by the car rental agent, but you may be already covered under your personal travel insurance plan or medical plan.

What is the Liability Insurance?

Every country has a minimum amount of insurance needed for someone to be permitted to drive. This covers the renter's liability for any damage caused to other people and/or other people's property. It is usually limited to a maximum. The insurance is limited and there may be excess.

Do I need any insurance? My credit card covers me.

Make sure to read the fine print on your credit card agreement for limits on rental durations, types of vehicles covered, and the insurance offered to make sure you are fully covered.

Question not answered?

Please contact us.