Enhancing Your Car Hire Experience
Are you gearing up for a visit to the UK this summer?
With so many attractions and landmarks to tick off your bucket list, hiring a car is the best way to make the most of your trip.
In this article, we’ll share everything you need to know about the requirements for renting a car in the UK, from essential documents to tips on enhancing your car hire experience.
At Caversham Vehicle Hire, we’re pleased to provide comprehensive vehicle hire services across Reading, Newbury and the surrounding areas. To find out more, please get in touch. Call our friendly team today on 0118 947 6500.
Can You Rent a Car With an International License in the UK?
No. Unfortunately, at Caversham Vehicle Hire, we cannot accept international driving licences. However, we can accept licences from all EU countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
If you hold a foreign licence from any other country, we will need to refer your licence to our insurers for verification. This process can be completed during standard office hours, Monday to Friday and can take up to two days to complete.
We recommend providing as much notice as possible before your hire period to ensure all paperwork is completed on time.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in the UK?
Age restrictions for hiring a car in the UK will vary depending on the rental provider and location.
While it’s legal to drive from the age of 17 in the UK, most car hire companies set their minimum rental age at 25. Some companies will cater to drivers between 17 and 25, however, they will usually add a substantial fee.
To hire a car from Caversham Vehicle Hire, you must be at least 25 years of age. Please note if you wish to rent a CAT 4 or Range Rover you will need to be 30 years minimum.
Is There an Upper Age Limit?
There is no legal upper age limit for renting a car in the UK, but some rental companies impose a maximum age limit to comply with their insurance policies.
This limit is usually around 70 – 75 years old, but individual rental companies are free to set their own restrictions.
Many suppliers may also require specific documentation from older drivers. This might include:
– A doctor’s certificate confirming good driving health.
– A letter from an insurance provider detailing any recent accidents.
Additionally, car rental companies may restrict the availability of certain vehicles for senior drivers.
Do You Need a Credit Card to Rent a Car in the UK?
Owning a credit card is not essential when hiring a car in the UK, but a security deposit is required to ensure the vehicle’s condition.
When you hire from us, this deposit is fully refundable upon the safe and undamaged return of the vehicle. The amount will depend on the vehicle you choose. For smaller cars (categories 1 & 2), the deposit is £200.
We offer convenient payment options for your car rental. You can pay the full rental fee upfront when booking using a credit or debit card, or you can choose a BACS transfer (UK bank transfer). Please note that security deposits can only be paid by credit or debit card.
What Else Do I Need to Consider When Renting a Car in the UK?
Enhancing Your Car Hire Experience
Renting a car will allow you to explore areas of the UK that are harder to access via public transport. Plus, you don’t need to worry about getting to and from train stations and carting heavy luggage around.
There are several steps you can take to enhance your UK car hire experience, including:
* Book Your Rental Well In Advance
Particularly during peak summer months, we recommend securing your hire well in advance.
* Learn the Rules of the Road
There are several key rules of the road you should know before driving in the UK.
These include:
– Drive on the left side of the road.
– Overtake on the right side of the road.
– Speed limits: 30mph/48kph in cities, 60mph/96kph on open roads and 70mph/112kph on motorways.
– Distance on signs are in miles and speed limits are measured in MPH.
There are three main road types in the UK:
– Motorways (M): Signs are blue with white text.
– Non-Primary Roads (A&B): These are an alternative to primary routes. The signs are white with black writing.
– Primary Roads (A&B): These are single and dual carriageways. Signs are green with white text.
– Turning on a red light is against the law in the UK. Turning left at a red light is only permitted when there is an arrow directing you to do so.
– The use of a mobile phone whilst driving is prohibited.
– Seat belts must be worn by law and children must be restrained in suitable child seats when travelling.
– All driving laws are dictated by the Highway Code. This applies to anyone that may be on the road, whether they’re a UK resident or not.
* Don’t Forget Your Documentation
On the day you pick up your vehicle, you must bring all the relevant documentation with you.
In addition, you should:
– Check the type of fuel required
– Check the mileage policy
– Check the contract, insurance and terms and conditions.
* Plan Your Trips
When planning your daily adventures, familiarise yourself with the route beforehand.
At Caversham Vehicle Hire, the majority of our cars come with a built-in GPS as standard, making it easier than ever to navigate your way around the country!
Choose Us
If you’re planning a trip to the UK and are searching for a reputable car hire service in the Reading/Newbury area, you’ve come to the right place! At Caversham Vehicle Hire, we pride ourselves on offering a professional and friendly service for our customers, ensuring your experience in the UK is as positive and enjoyable as possible.
To find out more about the requirements to rent a car in the UK, or to enquire about any of our vehicles, please get in touch with our team. Call us on 0118 947 6500 and speak to one of our approachable advisors today!