Renting a car for the first time can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to driving. From understanding the rental process to choosing the right vehicle and navigating insurance options, there are many factors to consider before getting behind the wheel. However, the process doesn’t have to be a challenge- renting a car as a first-time driver can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. This guide provides some helpful tips to ensure you’re well-prepared for your car rental journey.
Know the Rules of the Road
If you’re a first-time driver, it’s important to brush up on the UK’s rules of the road. Hopefully these will be fairly fresh on your mind if you’ve recently passed your test, but it doesn’t hurt to have a bit of a refresher. Also, when it comes to actually driving around, remember that many city centres have narrow streets, roundabouts, and one-way systems that can be tricky to navigate. Make sure you allow plenty of time to get between destinations so you don’t feel rushed.
Be aware of speed limits -in built-up areas, the speed limit is typically 30 mph, but it can drop to 20 mph in residential or school zones. On motorways, the limit is usually 70 mph, but it’s important to check for any signage indicating a lower limit.
You should also familiarise yourself with road signs and parking rules. Many towns and cities have restricted parking areas, so make sure you’re aware of local parking regulations to avoid fines.
Check Age and Licence Requirements
One of the most important factors to consider when renting a car in the UK is the age and licence requirements set by rental companies. Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though this can vary depending on the company and the type of vehicle you plan to rent. Drivers under 25 may face additional charges due to a perceived higher insurance risk on the behalf of the company.
Additionally, most rental companies will only rent cars to drivers who have held a full UK driving licence for at least a year. If you’re a first-time driver and have only recently passed your test, you may not yet be able to rent a car.
Plan Ahead and Book Early
Booking your rental car in advance can save you time, money, and stress. Not only can early bookings give you access to better rates, but they also ensure that you have more options when it comes to choosing the type of car. During busy travel seasons or weekends, availability can be limited, and last-minute rentals often come at a premium.
When booking online, ensure you carefully review the rental policies, including mileage limits, cancellation fees, and additional charges. Some companies may offer special discounts or packages for first-time renters or younger drivers, so it’s worth comparing deals across different platforms.
Choose the Right Car
Selecting the right car is crucial, especially if you’re not particularly experienced behind the wheel. If you’ve just passed your driving test, it’s a good idea to choose a car that you feel comfortable driving. It might be a good idea to go for a smaller, more manageable vehicle, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with driving in cities or on motorways. Smaller cars tend to be -easier to park and manoeuvre – if you can, it may help to rent a similar (or the same!) type of car that you learned to drive in, as this will help you feel more relaxed behind the wheel.
Check whether the car has manual or automatic transmission, and stick which whichever type you learnt to drive on – although obviously if you learned to drive on an automatic you won’t be able to drive a manual car in any case!
Understand Insurance Options
Understanding insurance for rental cars is essential to avoid unexpected costs. Rental companies usually include basic insurance in their prices, but this often comes with a hefty excess (the amount you must pay if the car is damaged). If you’re unfamiliar with the term, “excess” refers to the initial amount the driver is responsible for in the event of an accident or damage. You may need to shop around for a better excess rate before you commit to a rental.
Pay Attention to the Fuel Policy
Rental companies typically have different fuel policies, so it’s important to understand what you’re agreeing to when you rent a car. The most common options include:
- Full-to-full: You receive the car with a full tank and are expected to return it with a full tank. This is usually the most cost-effective option, as you can choose where to refuel, ensuring you pay local pump prices.
- Full-to-empty: The rental company gives you the car with a full tank, but you return it as empty as possible. Be cautious with this option, as you won’t be reimbursed for unused fuel. It may also cause you some stress if you’re worried about running out of fuel!
- Prepaid fuel: You pay for a full tank of fuel upfront at the rental company, but again, you won’t get reimbursed for any unused fuel.
Bring the Required Documents
- Driver’s License: It probably goes without saying, but you’ll need to bring your driver’s license with you to book a rental – ensure it’s a full licence rather than a provisional.
- Credit Card: Most car rental companies will require a credit card for the security deposit. Check to make sure that the card is in the name of the primary driver.
- Proof of Address: Some rental companies may ask for proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement, especially if you’re using a debit card.
Inspect the Car Before Driving Away
Before driving off in your rental car, it’s crucial to inspect the vehicle for any existing damage. While rental companies perform regular checks, it’s still possible that scratches, dents, or other minor issues might go unnoticed. If they do, it’s possible that you may be incorrectly charged for damage to the vehicle. Take your time to walk around the car and carefully examine it. If you spot any damage, notify the rental company and ensure it’s recorded on the rental agreement.
For added peace of mind, take photos or videos of the car’s condition before you leave the rental site. This will serve as proof in case the company later tries to charge you for pre-existing damage.
Familiarise Yourself with the Car
Before starting your journey, take a few moments to familiarise yourself with the car’s controls. If the car has features you’re not familiar with, ask the rental staff to explain how they work.
Make sure you know how to operate the air conditioning, lights, and infotainment system. It’s also worth checking whether the car has any special features like satellite navigation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area you’ll be driving in.
Return the Car on Time and in Good Condition
At the end of your rental, returning your rental car on time is crucial to avoid additional fees. Most rental companies charge extra for late returns, so plan ahead and give yourself enough time to drop off the car. If you’ve agreed to a full-to-full fuel policy, make sure the tank is topped up before you return the vehicle.
When returning the car, ask the rental company to inspect it and confirm there’s no additional damage. Keep a copy of the signed agreement as proof that the car was returned in good condition. This will help avoid any disputes or unexpected charges appearing on your account after your rental period ends.
We hope you’ve found this blog post helpful; if you’re interested in renting a car why not check out the options we offer at Autohorn online, or give us a call!
