Renting a car internationally allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Before you start planning your overseas road trip, however, there are some things you need to consider. Here we’ll explain the ins and outs of overseas car rentals and international car rental insurance.
Check License Requirements
Many countries allow you to rent and drive a car using a US driver’s license, but you should check the legality of this before you travel. Even if the country accepts your driver’s license, it may have restrictions on minimum and maximum driving ages. For instance, while you can obtain a driver’s license in the USA between the ages of 16 and 18, many countries only issue permits to individuals over the age of 18 and will not accept a US license from anyone younger.
Before you travel, check if your destination requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) for renting a car. The IDP is not a license in itself. Instead, it translates your US driver’s license into ten different languages, so you still need to bring your license. An IDP, however, does help when renting a car internationally or if you need to provide driving license information to local law enforcement.
The American Automobile Association and the National Auto Club are authorized to issue IDPs. You must be 18 years of age or older to apply for an IDP, and you will need to provide a valid driver’s license, two passport-sized photos of yourself, a completed IDP application, and a $20.00 fee. You have to apply for an IDP before you start your international road trip—you can’t get an IDP outside of your home country.
Booking in Advance with Reputable Companies
Look for recognizable, reputable overseas car companies. Companies like Avis and Hertz operate in multiple countries, although their international branches are sometimes franchises, and service levels can vary. If you’re considering using a local company, read online reviews carefully to judge their reliability. You can also use sites like Rentalcars.com and Kayak to compare rates and vehicle availability.
One thing to consider. Manual transmissions are much more common internationally and cheaper to rent. If you are not comfortable with a manual, request an automatic ahead of time. At the rental agency, you’ll need your driver’s license, passport, and credit card. Bring your IDP if you have one.
International Car Rental Insurance Options
US auto insurers typically do not cover international driving unless you’re driving in Mexico or Canada, so you’ll have to purchase insurance from the rental company. An exception would be if your credit card offers rental car insurance or travel points that can be used to rent (and insure) vehicles.
Your international coverage should be comparable to your regular insurance. Check local laws, however, as some countries require additional coverage. For this reason, it’s essential to inform your rental company if you plan to drive across borders, as your required coverage may change.
Learn the Rules of the Road
Many road signs are the same internationally. You’re unlikely to see stop signs that don't look familiar, for instance. Remember, however, that you're traveling in another country, and local laws, signage, and driving customs may be different. Do your research before you travel. In several countries, you’ll drive on the left, which can confuse and intimidate drivers who aren’t used to it.
If you're crossing borders, check each country's legal requirements and ensure that your rental company allows you to take the car into the other country. In some cases, it can be easier to cross the border by plane, train, or ferry and rent a second car at your destination.
Packing Smart for Car Travel
Packing for an international road trip isn’t that much different from domestic driving: You’ll want drinks, snacks, layered clothing, comfortable shoes, and phone chargers within easy reach, just like at home. Add a universal power adapter to your packing list, as power outlets can vary significantly by country. To ensure you don't lose phone service or incur international roaming fees, set up an eSIM through your phone carrier before you travel.
Have a packing cube in the car's cabin to store necessary paperwork. You’ll want to keep the following documents to hand:
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Passport and any applicable visas
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Driver’s license
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IDP
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Vehicle registration and proof of insurance
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Local maps (if local GPS is unreliable)
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Local phrase book
Keep printed copies of your passport, driver’s license, and travel insurance in a separate location.
Renting a car internationally opens up a world of opportunity you might otherwise miss. Do your research on local driving rules, secure appropriate levels of international car rental insurance, and enjoy the freedom of exploring the highways and byways of your destination!
Need more traveling advice? Check out our tips for traveling abroad.
